Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it's important to note the key differences in typing experience they offer. The Daybreak is praised for its solid 67g weight and quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer heavier keystrokes without the added noise. On the other hand, the Mini i provides gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, catering to users seeking a lightweight and comfortable typing experience in office settings. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different preferences; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Mini i, one noticeable difference is the top housing material used. The Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mini i features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While the polycarbonate of the Daybreak offers a clear and resonant sound, the nylon of the Mini i provides a duller and rounder tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Daybreak and the Mini i use nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will offer a more muted and rounder sound compared to switches with a different material for the bottom housing. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material between the two switches, the impact on the sound profile and typing experience can still vary based on the overall design and construction of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Mini i plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, resulting in a more muted and rounder sound. Whether the housing materials are the same or different, understanding their unique characteristics can help users make an informed decision based on their preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Durock Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Gateron Mini i has a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as light. The actuation force of the Daybreak is not specified, while the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Gateron Mini i requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Daybreak. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gateron Mini i would be the more suitable option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Durock Daybreak. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Gateron Mini i has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Daybreak. The difference in travel distance can impact the feel and response of the switches when typing or gaming. Those who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Gateron Mini i with its shorter travel distance, while others who enjoy a more traditional and deeper keypress may prefer the Daybreak with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it ideal for quiet environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most settings, balancing a moderate actuation force requirement with a moderate sound level. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience without the disruptive clacking noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. The overall sound quality will be smooth and unobtrusive, allowing for focused typing without distraction.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch offers a polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and providing a sleek key travel sensation. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switch gives a bouncy and easy-to-press feedback, offering a spring-like sensation with minimal force required for key activation. The mild and subtle characteristics of the Mini i switch make it approachable to most users, enhancing the typing experience with its responsive and low-impact feel. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with differences in the specific tactile feedback and actuation force required.
Overall, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer slightly different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience suitable for various work environments. The Daybreak switch provides a heavier touch with quieter operation, while the Mini i switch offers a lighter touch with gentle tactility. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option, ensuring an enjoyable and productive time spent at the keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a heavier actuation force and quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Daybreak offers a polished typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial touch while maintaining a muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and gentle tactility, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may be more suitable for you. The Mini i provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing feel with a bottom out force of 50 grams, ideal for comfortable and extended typing sessions in a quiet office setting. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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