Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and KTT Miaowu both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch that boasts a solid 67g actuation force, providing a hefty typing experience for those who appreciate a significant touch. Known for being polished, muted, and low-pitched, this switch is ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience in workspaces or settings where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu, another linear switch, stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to KTT's latest molds and the use of POK in its stem. Categorized as bouncy and clacky, the Miaowu switch offers a different tactile feel compared to the Daybreak. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The primary difference between the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Miaowu lies in the top housing material. Both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both keyboards share this quality in their top housing, the Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Miaowu also uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This results in a differing sound experience between the two keyboards, with the Daybreak offering a duller and rounder sound due to the nylon bottom housing.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Miaowu offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon. The Daybreak's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a balanced sound profile with a sharper sound on key press and a deeper tone upon release. On the other hand, the Miaowu's use of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing may result in a slightly more consistent sound profile throughout typing. Overall, both keyboards provide a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality and varying levels of impact depending on the material used in the housing.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Miaowu ultimately boils down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing material between the Daybreak's nylon and the Miaowu's polycarbonate leads to contrasting sound profiles. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Daybreak or a more consistent sound profile with the Miaowu, both keyboards offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two keyboards will come down to individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is clear that the Miaowu is the lighter option overall. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Miaowu only requires 50 grams to bottom out, which is on the lighter side. However, it is worth noting that the Miaowu has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Daybreak's unknown actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Miaowu may be the better choice, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is preferred, the Daybreak's higher bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within a shorter travel distance range compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Miaowu switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Daybreak switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Daybreak may be more suitable for quieter environments while the Miaowu may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch provides a polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. This results in a refined and sleek feel while typing. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively key presses that give a rebound effect. Depending on the desired typing experience, users may prefer the polished feel of the Daybreak or the bouncy feedback of the Miaowu.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak and KTT Miaowu linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak excels in providing a quiet and low-pitched typing experience with its heftier 67g actuation force and polished feel. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu stands out with its clacky sound profile and bouncy feedback, utilizing POK in its stem for enhanced stability. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, and users can expect similar results in terms of durability and overall functionality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier touch and a more muted, low-pitched sound, the Durock Daybreak switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bouncier feel and a more clacky sound, the KTT Miaowu switch could be the perfect fit. Consider your typing environment, preferred sound profile, and desired key feel when making your decision. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
