Durock Daybreak vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer a hefty linear typing experience, but with their own unique characteristics. The Daybreak switch, with its 67g actuation force, provides a solid and substantial touch while maintaining a quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Cream switch also offers a heavier typing experience and a deep sound profile, adding a sense of texture and invigoration to each keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream, one noticeable difference lies in their top housings. The Daybreak boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cream features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate is ideal for those seeking a crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities, while the POM provides a more subdued and pleasing sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer composition. This contrasted with the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream, which also contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. Despite the different housing materials, both switches offer a similar sound experience with their bottom housings, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to the top housing effects. This aspect showcases how the choice of material for each part of the switch impacts the overall sound and feel during typing.
In conclusion, while the Durock Daybreak and Kailh NovelKeys Cream may use different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both excel in providing unique sound profiles for keyboard enthusiasts. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak offers a sharp and clear sound, especially suited for RGB lighting setups, while the POM top housing of the Cream delivers a deeper and more subdued sound. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings of both switches contribute to a fuller and rounder sound experience, highlighting the significance of material choice in creating distinct typing preferences. Ultimately, whether using the Daybreak or Cream, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is clear that the NovelKeys Cream is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Daybreak's unspecified force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Daybreak is lighter at 67 grams compared to the Cream's 70 grams. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the NovelKeys Cream for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Daybreak appealing with its slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy feel, providing users with a solid typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Daybreak switch. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. The Daybreak switch may feel slightly snappier and more responsive due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Cream switch with its longer travel distance may offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately depends on individual typing style and preference.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Daybreak switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, keeping noise levels to a minimum with a softer and quieter sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a deeper and more resonant sound, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that adds a unique auditory dimension to your typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile, as both offer distinct acoustic qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a buttery and invigorating feel, with a seamless and uniform keystroke sensation that is both snappy and reactive. The textured nature of the Cream switch may appeal to those who prefer a bit of friction in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of key feel and tactility.
Considering all the available information, both the Durock Daybreak and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Daybreak switch provides a quieter and heftier typing experience with a polished feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a deeper, resonant sound and a buttery, invigorating feel with a textured touch. Depending on whether you prioritize sound profile, key feel, or a combination of both, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on your preferred keyboard setup will give you the best indication of which one suits your preferences the most. With similar actuation forces and linear design, both switches can deliver a consistent and reliable typing performance, with subtle differences in sound and feel that cater to varying preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heftier touch with a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep sound profile and a buttery, invigorating typing sensation, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream with its slightly heavier 70g bottom out force could be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences.
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