Durock Daybreak vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak switch provides a solid and weighty typing experience with a 67g actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a more significant touch and a quieter operation. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch by PH Studio offers a lighter bottom-out of 43.5g, making it perfect for prolonged typing sessions and effortless keystrokes. While the Daybreak switch is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', the Milk Tea switch is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Resonant'. Each switch has its unique benefits and appeal, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and typing habits. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the PH Studio Milk Tea has a POM top housing and a POM bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak is described as creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Milk Tea produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience. Both switches excel in providing distinct sound profiles, but the differences in housing materials contribute to the overall tone of each switch.
While the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound, the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM material. Despite their differences, both switches benefit from the unique qualities each housing material brings, ultimately shaping the overall typing experience for users.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switch, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are split between the two components. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing contributes more to the sound when a key is released. This division of materials allows for a balanced typing experience, where the nuances of both the top and bottom housing materials are showcased throughout each keystroke, highlighting the individual characteristics of the Daybreak and Milk Tea switches.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Daybreak switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, with no specified actuation force. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch has a light actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. This makes the Milk Tea switch overall lighter in comparison to the Daybreak switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may favor the Milk Tea switch, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Daybreak switch. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of force that cater to different preferences, ultimately providing users with options to customize their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Daybreak switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness and keypress depth.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, providing users with a softer and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of high-pitched and marbly tones, creating a balance between sharpness and resonance. While the Daybreak is more understated, the Milk Tea has a more distinct and lively sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound aesthetics.
When it comes to feel, both the Durock Daybreak and PH Studio Milk Tea switches are described as polished, emphasizing a smooth and refined typing experience. This suggests that both switches have reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek and comfortable feel with each keystroke. Additionally, the Milk Tea switch is further characterized as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Overall, both switches prioritize a comfortable and seamless typing feel for users.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch excels in providing a quiet and low-pitched sound profile, coupled with a polished and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of high-pitched and marbly tones, along with a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the Daybreak for a more subdued typing experience or the Milk Tea for a livelier and smoother feel. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for those seeking a premium mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, opt for the Daybreak switch with its 67g bottom out force. This switch is best suited for work environments where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a unique auditory blend of high-pitched yet muted sound, go for the Milk Tea switch with its 43.5g bottom out force. This switch is ideal for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions and value a smoother typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between the Daybreak and Milk Tea switches will depend on your personal preference for typing force, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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