Durock Daybreak vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Spring Breeze. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g actuation force, providing a more substantial typing feel that some users prefer. Despite the heavier actuation, the Daybreak operates quietly, making it a great choice for office environments or anywhere noise control is necessary. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. While there isn't a specific standout feature for the Spring Breeze, it provides a satisfying click sound with each keypress. The Daybreak is best described as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', while the Spring Breeze does not have specified categories. Each switch has its unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Spring Breeze utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic properties absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that regardless of the brand, users can expect a similar typing experience with a noticeable emphasis on the bottom-out sound.
In terms of the top housing material, the Durock Daybreak stands out with its polycarbonate housing, while the Outemu Spring Breeze features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer properties that absorb sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. These differences in top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Spring Breeze comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches feature nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience, the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, contrasting with the Spring Breeze's rounder and duller sound from its nylon top housing. Ultimately, whether you prefer a brighter, more resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound will determine which switch is the better fit for your typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is evident that the Spring Breeze is lighter overall. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine, while the Spring Breeze comes in at 40 grams. The Daybreak also has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the Spring Breeze bottoms out at 55 grams, making it medium-light. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Daybreak providing a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Spring Breeze offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch is 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances commonly found in mechanical keyboards. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Daybreak for faster response times, while others may prefer the Spring Breeze for its slightly deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance 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 Spring Breeze 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
Overall, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is favored for its heavier 67g actuation force, providing a more robust typing feel, while also maintaining a quiet and muted sound profile with low-pitched tones. The smooth and polished finish of the Daybreak adds to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have specific information available regarding its sound or feel qualities. However, based on the information provided, it can be inferred that the Spring Breeze may offer a lighter typing experience with potentially louder clicky sound characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Whether opting for the Daybreak's heavier, quieter experience or the potentially lighter and clicky Spring Breeze, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a clicky typing sound, then the Spring Breeze could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Happy typing!
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