Durock Daybreak vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak's 67g weight provides a robust typing experience while maintaining quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for those in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch lacks a defined standout feature but falls under the clicky switch category. Those who prefer auditory feedback with each press may lean towards the Cream Blue. 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
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Cream Blue switches, it is evident that the Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Cream Blue features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cream Blue produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Daybreak and the Cream Blue switches use a nylon bottom housing, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel of pressing down on the switch. With both switches sharing this housing material for the bottom, users can expect a consistent tactile experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the differences in top housing materials will still play a role in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch.
In summary, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound characteristics of mechanical switches like the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Cream Blue. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Cream Blue provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a consistent tactile experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two switches offer users a choice between a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Daybreak is lighter in terms of actuation force with None grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Daybreak at 67 grams and the Cream Blue at 65 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Cream Blue, while those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience may opt for the Daybreak. In terms of weight, the Cream Blue may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Daybreak offers a more substantial push feel. 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, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Daybreak offers a slightly shorter press, making it a favorite among gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Cream Blue provides a bit more depth in its travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects the overall typing or gaming experience.
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 Cream Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter ambiance. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is challenging to compare the two in this aspect. The choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience (Daybreak) or enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch (Cream Blue).
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the information about the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch is unavailable. If you enjoy a smooth and polished typing experience, the Daybreak switch would be the preferable choice based on the available information.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch provides a heftier touch with a muted, low-pitched sound and a polished typing feel. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks information about its sound and feel characteristics, making it challenging to directly compare to the Daybreak. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on your preference for typing experience, whether you prioritize a quiet operation and smooth key feel (Daybreak) or enjoy the audible click feedback of a clicky switch (Cream Blue).
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quiet typing experience, the Daybreak would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-heavy actuation force and don't mind a bit of noise, the Cream Blue may be more suited to your taste. Consider where you'll be using the keyboard and how you like the key feel and sound to make the best decision for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, so it's a matter of personal preference in the end.
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