Durock Daybreak vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the BSUN Olive tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight, providing a heavier touch for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Its quiet operation makes it ideal for workspaces where noise levels need to be kept in check. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive tactile switch stands out for its all-POM housings, which deliver a deep, resonant sound. With medium weight and pronounced tactile feedback, the Olive switch offers a satisfying typing experience with a sharp bottom-out feel. While the Daybreak is described as polished, muted, and low-pitched, the Olive is categorized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. Each switch has its unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into the specific details can help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Bsun Olive, it is clear that they differ in their top housing materials. The Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer and clearer sound profile, while the Olive utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials are transparent, the polycarbonate of the Daybreak is more likely to enhance RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the POM of the Olive offers a unique and pleasing sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. On the other hand, the Olive also features a POM bottom housing, reinforcing the switch's overall deep and muted sound profile. Both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, with the nylon of the Daybreak creating a rounder sound compared to the deeper sound produced by the POM of the Olive.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of each housing material in the switches are divided between the bottom and top housing. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Despite their differences in material, both the Daybreak and the Olive offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Daybreak showcasing a sharper and crisper sound and the Olive focusing on a deeper and more subdued sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we can see some distinct differences. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Olive, which has a bottom out force of 65 grams. However, the actuation force of the Olive is lighter at 45 grams compared to the Daybreak, which has an unknown actuation force. This means that the Olive may provide a lighter typing experience while still offering a substantial bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, but the Olive may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter actuation force, while the Daybreak may appeal to those who prefer a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that the Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Olive's 3.4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for faster response times, the Daybreak offers a slightly deeper press than the Olive. If you are looking for a switch with a bit more travel and depth in your keystrokes, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a more responsive and quicker keystroke, the Olive with its shorter travel distance could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, minimizing disruptive noise levels while providing a deep and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is known for a resonant and pronounced sound, thanks to its unique design and materials. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Daybreak focusing on a quieter operation and the Olive delivering a satisfyingly deep sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is characterized as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, along with a snappy and accentuated feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Daybreak emphasizes a polished and smooth typing experience, while the Olive focuses on a more pronounced and tactile feedback during use.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch offer unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak provides a quieter and smoother typing experience, while the Olive delivers a tactile and resonant feel. Depending on personal preference for sound levels and tactile feedback, both switches offer satisfying results that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Daybreak and Olive switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heftier typing experience with a muted and low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Daybreak linear switches with their 67g bottom out force would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile switch with a resonant, deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback like the BSUN Olive switches offer, then the 65g bottom out force and unique design might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and actuation force when choosing between the Daybreak and Olive switches.