Durock Daybreak vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Durock Daybreak and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight, offering a heftier typing experience while maintaining a quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, catering to those who prefer a more subtle feel and noise level. While both switches offer unique features and benefits, such as different actuation forces and sound profiles, it ultimately depends on personal preferences and 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the SP-Star RedBlue feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Durock Daybreak has a nylon bottom housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The differences in the bottom housing material between the Durock Daybreak and the SP-Star RedBlue impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Daybreak creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. This variation in bottom housing materials showcases how different plastics can significantly influence the sound characteristics of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the SP-Star RedBlue will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel. Whether looking for a sharper or more rounded sound, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are notable differences. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, while the RedBlue also has an actuation force of None grams, indicating that both switches have a similar light touch when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Daybreak requires 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, whereas the RedBlue only requires 57 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. This means that the Daybreak offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, suitable for those who prefer a firmer keystroke, while the RedBlue provides a lighter typing feel, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in the typing experience, with some users preferring lighter switches for prolonged use and others opting for heavier switches for a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Daybreak, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the RedBlue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 is described as having a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a quieter option compared to other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is also low-pitched but adds a thocky element, providing a deeper and more satisfying sound when typing. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Daybreak catering to those who prefer a softer sound and the RedBlue appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial and rich tone. Ultimately, your choice of sound will depend on personal preference, as well as the keyboard and keycaps used in combination with the switch.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switch provides a mild and approachable feel, falling within a safe middle-ground zone that is comfortable for most users. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and consistent typing feel, with the Daybreak focusing on a sleek finish and the RedBlue ensuring a gentle experience suitable for a wide range of users. Whether you prefer a more polished feel or a milder touch, both switches deliver on providing a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Daybreak offers a quiet and polished typing experience with a heavier touch, the RedBlue provides a more substantial and thocky sound profile with a mild and comfortable feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, either switch can deliver a satisfying performance with their distinct characteristics. Considering the information provided, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality between the two switches, but may find a noticeable difference in the tactile feel each switch offers. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and SP-Star RedBlue switches boils down to personal preference and the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue with its 57g bottom out force might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your typing style and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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