Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Phalaenopsis are two popular choices to consider. The Daybreak from Durock offers a solid 67g weight, providing a substantial typing experience perfect for those who prefer a heavier touch. Its quiet operation makes it ideal for work environments where noise levels must be kept low. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis from KTT features a lighter actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during extended use. With a tactile bump at 50g force, each keystroke on the Phalaenopsis is satisfying and enjoyable. The Daybreak is categorized as polished, muted, and low-pitched, while the Phalaenopsis is described as bassy, stepped, and thocky. Each switch offers unique advantages depending on individual preferences; 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
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Phalaenopsis both include polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency is useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the qualities of both the polycarbonate top housing in the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Phalaenopsis are similar. Both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate and its ability to create a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects when the switches are in use. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Daybreak provides a contrasting deeper and fuller sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Phalaenopsis play a crucial role in the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, with polycarbonate providing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Overall, the combination of these housing materials results in unique typing experiences for each switch, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Daybreak has a higher bottom out force at 67 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis at 50 grams. However, the Phalaenopsis has a lower actuation force at 37 grams, while the Daybreak's actuation force is not specified. In terms of weight, the Phalaenopsis is lighter overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Daybreak provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, with the Daybreak catering to those who prefer a heavier feel, while the Phalaenopsis is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Daybreak. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances commonly found in mechanical keyboards. 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 Phalaenopsis. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 quiet and subtle switch. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, enhancing the auditory feedback during typing sessions. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences.
In terms of feel, the Daybreak switch boasts a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis switch features a stepped tactile feel, providing a more subtle tactile feedback compared to other switches. The choice between polished and stepped switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style, as both options offer distinct tactile sensations for the user.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Daybreak focuses on providing a heavier touch with a muted sound and a polished feel, the Phalaenopsis offers a lighter touch with a bassy sound and a stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. However, it's important to note that both switches will deliver high-quality performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users seeking different qualities in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier touch and quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if effortless typing and a lighter tactile bump are more your style, the Phalaenopsis with its 50g bottom out force could be the way to go. Additionally, take into account the sound profile you prefer, with the Daybreak offering a muted, low-pitched sound and the Phalaenopsis providing a bassy, thocky tone. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Choose wisely based on what feels best for you.
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