Durock Daybreak vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their distinct features and characteristics. The Daybreak offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a weightier typing experience, while also maintaining a quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver boasts rapid response and low spring resistance, making it optimal for gamers seeking maximum speed and precision. While the Daybreak is known for its polished, muted, and low-pitched sound profile, the Speed Silver is recognized for its textured, thocky, and low-pitched attributes. Each switch has its unique strengths and applications, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing material. As a result, both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound overall, enhancing the typing experience for users of both switches.
However, where the switches differ is in the top housing material. The Durock Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound when typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound, the overall typing experience may still differ slightly between the two switches due to the different top housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry MX Speed Silver will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the Daybreak providing a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear typing experience or a deeper and rounder sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of typing feel. The Daybreak switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium to heavy switch, while the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams, making it a lighter switch, but the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Speed Silver would be the preferable choice, as the lower actuation force allows for faster keystrokes. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier touch, the Daybreak switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Daybreak. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - those who prefer a snappier feel may opt for the Cherry MX Speed Silver, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Durock Daybreak. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance and would provide a satisfying typing experience.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver 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 sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is described as thocky and also low-pitched, providing a deep and rich sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference for sound, the Daybreak may be more suitable for those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the MX Speed Silver may appeal to individuals who enjoy a deeper and more satisfying noise when typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Daybreak is characterized as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. This difference in feel may cater to individuals who prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience, as opposed to those who appreciate a subtle texture when typing.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing noise level and tactile feel. While both switches have their unique features, users can expect similar results in terms of low pitch for sound and linear action for feel. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand may be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you value a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation and prefer a more muted and low-pitched sound, the Durock Daybreak may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid response times, particularly for gaming, and enjoy a thocky sound with low spring resistance, the Cherry MX Speed Silver could be the better option. Both switches have their strengths and cater to different user preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Daybreak and the MX Speed Silver depends on your individual typing and gaming needs.
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