Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience without the tactile bump found in other switch types. The Durock Daybreak stands out with its 67g actuation force, providing a satisfyingly hefty touch for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Additionally, its quiet operation makes it ideal for environments where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black excels in providing a cushioned bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it perfect for settings requiring silent typing. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a slightly high-pitched and clacky sound. However, both top housings are designed to enhance the sound of the switches, with the polycarbonate catering to those who prefer a clear and resonant sound, while the INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the Daybreak's nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, emphasizing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Despite the differences in composition, both bottom housings play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the nylon contributing to a softer and fuller sound and the INK blend enhancing the high-pitched and clacky sound experience.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Silent Ink Black results in unique typing experiences for users. While the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound, paired with the nylon bottom housing for a deeper tone, the Silent Ink Black combines its proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings for a pointed and high-pitched sound profile throughout. Both switches highlight the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we see that the Daybreak has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 60 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Daybreak requires 67 grams, while the Silent Ink Black needs 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category for bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Daybreak, as it offers a smoother keystroke with less initial force required. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent Ink Black due to its heavier actuation force. In either case, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience with these switches.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch. This means that the Daybreak requires slightly less distance to actuate compared to the Silent Ink Black. While both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, the Daybreak provides a slightly faster response time due to its shorter distance. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black may offer a more deliberate and satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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, both the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are described as producing a muted sound, which is ideal for quieter environments. The Daybreak also offers a low-pitched sound, giving it a deeper and mellower tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is noted for its polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, like the Daybreak, the Silent Ink Black switch is also considered to have a polished finish, contributing to a sleek typing experience for the user.
In conclusion, both the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer muted sound profiles, making them suitable for quiet environments. While the Daybreak provides a heavier actuation force at 67g and a low-pitched sound, the Silent Ink Black offers a cushion-like bottom-out feel and silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel, sound characteristics, and any additional features that may impact the overall typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Daybreak or Silent Ink Black, you can expect a similar level of quality in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black could be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer muted sound profiles, but the Daybreak is described as having a low-pitched sound, while the Silent Ink Black is simply muted. Additionally, the Daybreak is noted for its polished feel, while the Silent Ink Black is described as silky and polished. Consider these factors carefully when making your decision to ensure you choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences.
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