Durock Daybreak vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their key differences. The Daybreak switch is a linear switch with a solid 67g weight, offering a hefty typing experience, while also maintaining a quiet operation. This makes it ideal for workspaces or settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is also a linear switch but with a lighter-medium level of resistance, allowing for a faster and more precise typing experience. With a reduced travel distance, the Speed Silver switch enables quick and effortless actuation. While the Daybreak switch is categorized as polished, muted, low-pitched'', the Speed Silver switch is described as neutral, mild, polished. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
Both the Durock Daybreak and TTC Speed Silver switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. The similar characteristics of the polycarbonate top housings of both switches ensure that users will experience comparable sound profiles and aesthetics.
In contrast, the Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Speed Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, providing users with a similar typing experience that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housings of both switches offer consistency in sound quality and typing feel.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Durock Daybreak and TTC Speed Silver switches showcases how different materials can influence sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the distinction in their nylon bottom housings allows for subtle variations in sound and feel when typing. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound profile with nylon, both switches offer unique qualities to cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the differences are quite evident. The Durock Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it incredibly light in terms of triggering keystrokes, whereas the TTC Speed Silver requires 45 grams of force to actuate a key. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the TTC Speed Silver has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. This means that the Durock Daybreak provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the TTC Speed Silver offers a lighter actuation force for easier typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Speed Silver. In general, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. While both switches offer a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak leans towards a more subdued sound, while the Speed Silver offers a versatile option suitable for various environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Daybreak linear switch is characterized by its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild typing experience with polished attributes for smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing feel without any harsh feedback, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak linear switch stands out for its heavier actuation force and quieter sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a more substantial touch and minimal noise. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is preferred for its light-medium resistance and precise typing experience, suitable for fast and effortless actuation. While both switches offer different characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they ultimately provide similar levels of comfort and satisfaction to users seeking a reliable linear switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a faster and more precise typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Speed Silver could be the ideal choice. Consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel as well, as the Daybreak offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile with a polished feel, while the Speed Silver has a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.