Durock Daybreak vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Blue Jade offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch with a solid 67g actuation force, providing a satisfyingly heavy typing experience while also maintaining quiet operation—perfect for those who value a significant touch without the noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch with a unique typing feel, characterized by its smoothness, subtlety, and low pitch. While the Daybreak excels in providing a weighty yet subdued typing experience, the Blue Jade offers distinct clicky tactile feedback. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different types of users; however, let’s dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Blue Jade, it is clear that both switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different top housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, which is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition. While the Daybreak's top housing focuses more on clarity and sharpness, the Blue Jade's top housing enhances a richer and more rounded sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of the two switches, both the Daybreak and the Blue Jade utilize nylon for this component. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing may not have as much of an impact on the overall typing experience as the top housing, the consistency in using nylon for this component between the two switches ensures a similar sound outcome when typing on either switch.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Blue Jade offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different top housing materials. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Blue Jade's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Despite this difference, the use of nylon for the bottom housing component in both switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound, as nylon's soft plastic composition absorbs sound effectively. Whether you prefer a crisper and clearer typing sound with the Daybreak or a richer and rounder sound with the Blue Jade, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it slightly lighter in terms of initial keystroke pressure compared to the Blue Jade's 50 grams. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Daybreak at 67 grams and the Blue Jade at 65 grams, both falling within the medium-heavy category. While the Daybreak offers a lighter actuation force, the Blue Jade provides a more tactile typing experience with its clicky feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Durock Daybreak linear switch. For those who prefer a more traditional travel distance, the Blue Jade may be the preferable option. However, the Daybreak's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time. Both switches offer a unique feel and response, so ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal 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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound characteristics are not specified, so it's unknown how it compares in terms of noise level and pitch. When considering sound, it's important to note that factors such as the keyboard build, case material, and keycaps can also influence the overall audible experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is noted for its polished and smooth typing experience, offering reduced friction and a sleek key travel sensation. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch. Without this information, it's challenging to provide a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing feel.
Overall, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Daybreak linear switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy the clicky sound and feedback of a clicky switch, the Outemu Blue Jade could be a suitable option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your typing needs, so it's essential to consider all aspects of the switch, including sound, feel, actuation force, and typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, and selecting the best one will depend on your individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and quieter operation, the Daybreak would be a great option, especially for office or shared spaces where noise is a concern. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky sound and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Blue Jade may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific setting in which you will be using the keyboard.
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