Durock Daybreak vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, there are distinct characteristics to consider. The Daybreak boasts a hefty 67g actuation force, perfect for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while also maintaining a quiet operation ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple offers a unique clicky sound without any specific standout features in terms of actuation force. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
65g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Dustproof Purple share a polycarbonate top housing material, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant colors to shine through. However, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Purple's bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, the Durock Daybreak's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Daybreak's bottom housing offers a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the Dustproof Purple's bottom housing creates a rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. This split in housing materials allows users to experience different qualities when typing on each switch, with the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in switch design.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Dustproof Purple share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housing. The Daybreak's deeper and fuller sound profile contrasts with the Dustproof Purple's rounder sound, highlighting the impact of bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound profile and feel, with both offering unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch reveals some differences in weight. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Dustproof Purple, which bottoms out at 65 grams. The actuation force of the Dustproof Purple is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Daybreak is not specified. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of weight, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Purple may be more suitable for those who type for long periods of time, while the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak could offer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances for mechanical keyboards, with the Dustproof Purple being more traditional in this aspect. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Daybreak for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and speed of input.
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 Dustproof Purple 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 looking for a quieter and more subtle click while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, but it is generally known for producing a satisfying click sound upon actuation. Depending on your preference for sound, the Daybreak may be more suitable for quieter environments, while the Dustproof Purple may provide a more traditional clicky mechanical keyboard experience.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish enhances the overall typing experience and ensures a comfortable feel with each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch. However, since it is a clicky switch, you can expect a tactile response and audible click upon actuation, providing a satisfying feel for typists who enjoy auditory feedback.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch stands out for its heavy actuation force and quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a more substantial touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offers a satisfying click sound upon actuation, ideal for typists who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a quality typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Depending on your personal preferences in sound and feel, either switch could be a great choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the factors of actuation force and sound. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter sound profile, the Daybreak would be the better choice with its 67g actuation force. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter actuation force and don't mind a clicky sound, the Dustproof Purple with its 65g actuation force might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your personal preferences for typing feel and sound will determine which switch is the best fit for your keyboard setup.
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