Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two excellent linear options. The Daybreak switch offers a hefty 67g actuation force, providing a robust typing experience with quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing tasks. While the Daybreak is characterized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for being 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its unique qualities, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both feature a nylon bottom housing which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes significantly to the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying sound and feel when typing.
In contrast, the Durock Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing in the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference in top housing material between the two switches will impact the sound when keys are released, with the Daybreak providing a sharper sound compared to the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Overall, while the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) have different top housing materials, they share the same nylon bottom housing. This means that both switches will provide a similar deep and full sound profile during typing. However, the differing top housing materials will result in noticeable differences in the sound profile when keys are pressed and released. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown to compare, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Daybreak is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams. This means that the Daybreak offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro provides a lighter touch that may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some opting for a lighter weight for extended use, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Daybreak offers a quicker key press response due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch provides a slightly deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
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 Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. While both switches aim to minimize noise, the Daybreak leans towards a quieter and softer sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a more satisfyingly deep and rich tone.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its buttery and textured feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience while also offering a subtle texture that some users may appreciate for added grip or feedback. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience, with the Daybreak focusing on a polished and smooth feel, and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a buttery sensation with a slight textured touch.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Daybreak excels in providing a quieter and polished typing experience with its muted and low-pitched sound profile and smooth key travel, while the Milky Yellow Pro stands out with its deep and rich thocky sound and buttery yet textured feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches offer a solid choice for enthusiasts looking for different tactile experiences in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a quieter operation, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, buttery typing feel and a more budget-friendly option, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) could be the switch for you. Consider your typing style, noise tolerance, and budget when making your decision between these two popular linear switches.
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