Durock Daybreak vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak and the Kailh Sage mechanical keyboard switches, you have two distinct options to consider. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight, providing a hefty typing experience that is matched with quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a refreshing sharp clickiness with a heavy weight, providing an invigorating typing experience. While the Daybreak is categorized as 'polished', 'muted', and 'low-pitched', the Sage is categorized as 'invigorating', 'sharp', and 'crunchy'. Depending on your preference for typing feel and sound, you may find one switch more appealing than the other; 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Sage both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness allows for a clear and resonant sound that is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing element to the switches. Despite using the same material for their top housings, the sound profiles of the Daybreak and Sage may vary slightly due to other factors such as stem design or overall switch construction.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Durock Daybreak and Kailh Sage provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, contributing to the overall typing experience. Despite sharing the same material for their bottom housings, the Daybreak and Sage may still offer slightly different typing experiences based on other factors such as spring weight or lubrication.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Durock Daybreak and Kailh Sage creates a unique typing experience for users. While both switches offer similar sound profiles with their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings may influence the overall feel of typing on each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a softer, fuller sound, the Daybreak and Sage provide options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking to customize their typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have similar bottom out forces, with the Daybreak being slightly lighter at 67 grams compared to the Sage's 70 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force. The Daybreak's lighter bottom out force may be preferable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Sage's slightly heavier bottom out force may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sage. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, the Daybreak would be the better option. However, if you prioritize quick response and prefer a shorter travel distance, the Sage would be the way to go as it has a slightly shorter distance. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, but the slight variation may make a difference depending on individual preferences.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a softer and quieter sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides a crunchy and sharp clickiness that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Depending on the user's preference for sound, the Daybreak would be more suitable for a quiet workspace while the Sage would be more fitting for those who enjoy a more audible typing experience.
When it comes 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 Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp, providing pronounced feedback, firm actuation force, and a crisp tactile bump with each keypress. Depending on the user's preference for tactile feedback and keypress feel, the Daybreak would appeal to those who enjoy a sleek typing sensation, while the Sage would suit individuals looking for a more immersive and tactile typing experience.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Daybreak provides a heavier typing experience with a muted sound profile and polished feel, while the Sage offers a sharp clickiness and invigorating tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches can cater to different needs. Ultimately, it is essential for newcomers to consider their typing preferences and work environment when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience and noise level. If you enjoy a heavier touch and a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh Sage switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what type of typing feel and sound you prefer. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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