Durock Daybreak vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stand out as two compelling options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Durock Daybreak switches offer a heavier actuation force of 67g, providing a robust typing experience that many users find satisfying. Their quiet operation adds an element of practicality, making them ideal for workspaces where noise reduction is essential. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches deliver a thoroughly polished tactile feel, thanks to their dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances smoothness. The Sticky Rice switches, known for their neutral sound signature paired with the desirable "thock," suit those who enjoy a more refined level of tactile feedback and are looking for a smooth keystroke without compromising auditory enjoyment. Ultimately, your choice between these switches may come down to whether you prefer the heft and quiet of the Daybreak or the buttery feel and satisfying sound of the Sticky Rice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share notable similarities when it comes to their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This common choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and resonant properties. This similarity also extends to the aesthetic appeal of the switches, where the translucency of the polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine brightly through, effectively enhancing the visual experience for users who prioritize illuminated setups. Therefore, when it comes to using these switches in a gaming or office environment with lighting features, users can expect similar performance and aesthetic outcomes.
In contrast to their shared top housing material, the bottom housing of the Daybreak and Sticky Rice (V2) is composed of nylon, which is a hallmark material in the mechanical switch community. The use of nylon brings about a distinct auditory quality, favoring a deeper and fuller sound profile as it tends to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. With this material choice, both switches contribute to a more tactile typing experience, where the bottom housing's properties play a significant role in the feel and sound when a key is bottomed out. Consequently, this shared nylon characteristic ensures that both switches maintain consistency in producing a warm and rounded bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, while the Durock Daybreak and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) have different sound profiles during the actuation and bottom-out phases due to their respective housing configurations, they utilize the same materials within each housing type. The combination of polycarbonate in the top and nylon in the bottom provides users with a unique auditory and tactile experience, with the crispness from the polycarbonate harmonizing with the depth from the nylon. Therefore, regardless of the slight differences in sound nuances when actuating or bottoming out, the overall experience remains coherent due to their shared materiality, allowing for users to enjoy both an aesthetically enhanced and acoustically pleasing typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences that cater to various typing preferences. The Durock Daybreak lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Sticky Rice switch the lighter option overall, appealing to those who prefer a gentler touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Meanwhile, the Daybreak's heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who favor a stronger push feel. As such, the difference in actuation forces reflects the distinct typing experiences offered by each switch, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find a clear difference: the Daybreak has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Sticky Rice (V2) the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate feel when pressing the keys. Conversely, the Daybreak, with its longer travel distance, might be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Sticky Rice (V2) would be the better choice, while the Daybreak caters to those desiring a deeper and more deliberate key press.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches share a low-pitched sound profile, resulting in a mellow tone that is ideal for quieter environments. The low pitch offers a bass-heavy signature that minimizes distractions in workspaces, making both switches suitable for those who need to maintain a serene atmosphere while typing. While the Daybreak is specifically noted for its quiet operation, the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a more balanced sound that hints at the appealing "thock" often sought by enthusiasts. This similarity in sound signature suggests that users of either switch can achieve a discreet auditory experience, although the specific nuances may vary depending on the choice of keyboard, board materials, and keycap combinations.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak excels with its polished finish, which allows for a smooth and refined typing experience characterized by reduced friction and effortless key travel. The Sticky Rice (V2) takes this a step further by not only being polished but also incorporating attributes such as silky smoothness, mild engagement, and a buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. This makes the Sticky Rice (V2) particularly appealing for users seeking a luxurious feel during prolonged typing sessions. While both switches provide a highly satisfying tactile experience, the added characteristics of the Sticky Rice (V2) may cater more effectively to enthusiasts who appreciate a refined touch.
In conclusion, both the Durock Daybreak and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) are exceptional linear switches that offer unique advantages tailored to different preferences. Their low-pitched sound profiles make them suitable for quiet environments, ensuring subtle auditory responses. On the tactile front, while both deliver a polished feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) elevates the experience with additional attributes that cater to a more discerning audience. Ultimately, whether one opts for the heavier Daybreak or the multi-faceted Sticky Rice (V2), both switches promise rewarding typing experiences, albeit with distinct nuances that may appeal to varying user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a medium-heavy typing experience that offers a bit more resistance, the Daybreak might be the right fit for you, especially if you require a quiet operation in a shared workspace. Its polished feel ensures that each keystroke delivers a refined and seamless typing experience, which is beneficial for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a typing experience that feels silky and smooth, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) could be your ideal choice. Its low-pitched sound signature and buttery keystrokes make it perfect for those who enjoy a tactile engagement without the added weight, appealing to both casual users and enthusiasts alike. Ultimately, your choice should align with what you prioritize—whether it's a heftier resistance combined with subdued sound or a feather-light touch that excels in smoothness and a delightful sound profile.
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