Durock Daybreak vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak stands out for its solid 67g weight, providing a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a heavier touch. In addition, its quiet operation makes it a suitable choice for environments where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is celebrated for its classic reputation in the keyboard community, offering a satisfyingly textured typing feel and substantial heft. With updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, these switches offer a blend of tradition and modern innovation. Both switches share a low-pitched sound profile but differ in their feel and actuation force. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry Nixie feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. In contrast, the Nixie's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While the Daybreak's top housing enhances the brightness and resonant quality of the switch's sound, the Nixie's nylon top housing offers a more muted and rounded sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Daybreak and the Nixie rely on nylon for its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. However, the impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the similarities in their nylon bottom housing ensure that both the Daybreak and the Nixie offer a satisfying typing experience with a rich sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the Cherry Nixie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak produces a brighter and sharper sound, ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Nixie offers a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a more muted and rounded typing sound. Both switches showcase the unique qualities of their housing materials, providing users with distinct options to suit their individual preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Daybreak switch has a lighter actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Nixie switch requires a force of 63.5 grams for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the Daybreak switch requires 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Nixie switch requires a heavier 80 grams for bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Daybreak switch, as it requires less force both for actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch would appeal more to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Daybreak offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Nixie. In general, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Daybreak and Nixie switches will come down to 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, ideal for those seeking a quieter operation with a deeper tonality. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch provides a thocky sound profile with low-pitched tones, offering a rich and satisfying auditory experience. Both switches excel in delivering a pleasant typing sound, with the Daybreak focusing on a softer and quieter approach while the Nixie emphasizes a deeper and more pronounced tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Durock Daybreak linear switch boasts a polished texture, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience characterized by reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a textured feel, introducing noticeable friction when pressed that may appeal to users seeking a tactile typing sensation. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished finish or a textured key press, both switches cater to different preferences for tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Durock Daybreak and Cherry Nixie linear switches differ in their sound and feel qualities, both switches excel in providing a premium typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Whether you opt for the muted and low-pitched sound of the Daybreak or the thocky texture of the Nixie, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quieter, low-pitched sound with a polished feel, then the Daybreak switches may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force, a thocky, low-pitched sound, and a textured typing feel, then the Nixie switches would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, workspace environment, and personal preferences when making your decision between these two high-quality switches.
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