Durock Daybreak vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Durock Daybreak and Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer different features to cater to various preferences. The Daybreak is praised for its solid 67g weight, providing a robust typing experience favored by those who prefer a heavier touch. Its quiet operation makes it suitable for environments where noise reduction is crucial, and it is described as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out for its construction entirely from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force at an affordable price point. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', it appeals to those looking for a different typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Dareu Sky POM, we can see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will share similar characteristics in terms of creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of the material allows for an enhanced lighting effect. However, despite the similarities in the top housing material, there may be subtle differences in sound due to other factors such as stem material and switch design.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing while the Sky POM utilizes a nylon bottom housing as well. Both switches leverage the characteristics of nylon to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This means that both switches will likely share a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, despite having different top housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing helps to complement the sound profile created by the top housing material.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak and the Dareu Sky POM offer a unique typing experience with their combination of housing materials. While the top housings may be the same, the differences in bottom housing materials can contribute to subtle variations in sound and feel. Both switches prioritize creating a pleasing sound profile, with the Daybreak focusing on a sharper and crisper sound while the Sky POM leans towards a deeper and more muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unavailable. This means that the Daybreak is heavier in terms of bottom out force, but lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Sky POM. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Sky POM for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and usage scenarios.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This uniformity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing consistent feedback to users during typing sessions.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 who prefer a quieter and more bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch provides a low-pitched clacky sound that adds a unique touch to the typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct sound characteristics, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is known for its polished finish, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Again, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual preference for typing feel and the desired level of smoothness in keystrokes.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak and Dareu Sky POM linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Daybreak provides a heavier touch with a muted sound and polished feel, the Sky POM offers a clacky sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize weightier typing feedback or smoother key presses, you can confidently choose between the two switches knowing that they will deliver standout performance in their respective characteristics. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Daybreak or the Sky POM, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that meets your specific preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Daybreak switches with their 67g bottom out force would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and clackier typing sensation with a lower actuation force, the Dareu Sky POM switches crafted from POM material would suit you better. Consider your typing environment, sound preferences, and desired level of smoothness when making your decision between these two excellent linear switches.