Durock Daybreak vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak, a linear switch, and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), a tactile switch, it's essential to consider the unique characteristics of each. The Daybreak is known for its solid 67g weighting, providing a hefty typing experience while maintaining quiet operation, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a tactile feedback with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, making it ideal for those who want a tactile and silenced typing experience. Although these general pointers give a brief overview of each switch, diving deeper into their specific features and performance will help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Nylon
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) feature polycarbonate top housings, which lend themselves to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, the Daybreak takes it a step further by incorporating a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, the Durock Daybreak stands out with its combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a bright and crisp sound, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) sticks to a consistent material choice by utilizing both polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing. This results in a balanced sound profile, with the sharpness of polycarbonate and the depth of nylon working together to create a unique typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics and aesthetics. While both switches offer the sharp and crisp sound associated with polycarbonate top housings, the Daybreak distinguishes itself with the addition of a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) maintains a consistent sound profile throughout, balancing the characteristics of both materials for a well-rounded typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
Both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same actuation force of None grams, meaning they both require no force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Daybreak is slightly heavier with a force of 67 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Daybreak a medium-heavy switch in terms of bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a similar level of resistance. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Daybreak may be the more suitable option, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see that the Daybreak has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Silent T1's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Daybreak a favorable option for gaming. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Silent T1 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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, both the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are described as muted, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. The Daybreak is also noted for its low-pitched sound, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) focuses solely on its muted sound profile. When considering the sound quality of these switches, it is essential to factor in other variables such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps being used, as they can also impact the overall acoustics.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to either the materials used or factory lubing. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is noted for its stepped and accented tactile feedback, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overpowering but still noticeable. Both switches aim to enhance the typing feel by offering different levels of smoothness and tactility, catering to users with various preferences in keypress feedback.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Daybreak provides a heavier touch and quieter operation, making it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be minimized. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a tactile response with a cushioned bottom-out feel, perfect for those who want a balance between feedback and silence. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quiet operation, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bump and silent operation, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so make your decision based on what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing style.
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