Durock Daybreak vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak, a linear switch, to the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, it becomes clear that each has its own distinct advantages. The Daybreak is praised for its solid 67g weight, offering a robust typing sensation that appeals to those who prefer a more substantial touch. Additionally, its quiet operation makes it ideal for environments where noise levels must be kept low. On the other hand, the Gold switch does not have a specific standout feature mentioned, but it falls into the clicky switch category. This means it provides tactile feedback and an audible click with each keystroke. While these general points can guide your decision, further exploration into the specific characteristics of each switch will help you determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
The Durock Daybreak and Outemu Gold both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, they both allow for RGB lighting due to their translucency. However, despite these similarities, the nylon bottom housing of the Daybreak elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The differences between the nylon bottom housings of the Daybreak and Gold highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the top housings of both switches contribute to the sharp and crisp sound profile, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material affecting different aspects of the key press. The Daybreak emphasizes the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Daybreak and Outemu Gold switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profiles and typing experiences of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound, the differing nylon bottom housings result in distinct differences in sound characteristics. The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gold's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of impact on different aspects of the key press, contributing to a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the Daybreak switch has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Gold switch's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Gold switch is lighter at 45 grams, while the Daybreak switch does not provide a specific number for actuation force. This means that the Gold switch requires less force to initiate a keystroke, providing a lighter typing feel, while the Daybreak switch offers a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter actuation force or a heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for mechanical keyboards. The Daybreak's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Gold's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for keyboard feel and typing 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 Gold 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
The Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a quieter and low-pitched sound profile, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a more subtle typing experience. With a heavier actuation force of 67g, these switches provide a solid and stable typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch. The polished finish of the Daybreak switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel qualities, but based on the information provided, it can be presumed that the Daybreak switch would offer a more refined and muted sound compared to the potentially louder and more tactile Gold switch. Both switches offer unique characteristics, and ultimately, the choice between them would depend on the individual's preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should choose the Daybreak if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation. The 67g bottom out force of the Daybreak provides a more substantial touch, making it suitable for those who enjoy a heavier switch. Additionally, the muted and low-pitched sound of the Daybreak switches makes them ideal for environments where minimizing noise is important. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clicky switch, the Outemu Gold may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences and the setting in which you will be using the keyboard to determine which switch is the best fit for your needs.
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