Durock Daybreak vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak switch is known for its solid 67g weight, providing a hefty typing experience ideal for those who prefer a more significant touch. Its heavy actuation force combined with quiet operation makes it suitable for noise-sensitive environments like workspaces. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, offering a distinctive typing feel. The rare use of a Ly stem in the Neo White switch contributes to a remarkably smooth actuation, providing a smooth and satisfying keystroke experience. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them appealing, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and the Haimu Neo White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, both switches produce a more clear and resonant sound when pressed. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, the Durock Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Although both the Durock Daybreak and the Haimu Neo White have similar top housing materials, their differences become apparent when comparing their bottom housings. The utilization of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches gives a unique sound profile to each. The Durock Daybreak's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Neo White's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
When analyzing the impact of the different housing materials on the sound and feel of each switch, it becomes clear that the choice of materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance of a mechanical keyboard. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a combination of qualities that influence the sound produced when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, understanding how the materials used in the housing of a switch affect the typing experience can help users make informed decisions when selecting a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, we find that both switches have an actuation force of None grams, making them equally light in terms of initial keystroke pressure. However, the Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it heavier compared to the Neo White, which has a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Daybreak provides a medium-heavy feel when fully pressed, while the Neo White offers a medium resistance. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Neo White may be more suitable. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Daybreak for a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, which is ideal for those looking for a quick and responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
The Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience ideal for quiet work environments. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, catering to a broader range of users with its moderate sound and actuation force. When it comes to the feel, the Daybreak switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Neo White switch provides a mild typing experience, striking a balance between comfort and tactile feedback. Overall, if you prefer a heavier touch with a quieter sound, the Daybreak switch is the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a smooth actuation, the Neo White switch would be a great choice for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will find a switch that suits their typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force and muted, low-pitched sound may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a smooth actuation and a mild, approachable typing feel, the Haimu Neo White with its 58g bottom out force and neutral sound profile might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing between the Durock Daybreak and Haimu Neo White switches will depend on your individual preferences and the typing experience you're looking to achieve.
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