Durock Daybreak vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options for different preferences. The Durock Daybreak offers a hefty typing experience with its 67g actuation force, catering to those who prefer a more significant touch. Known for its quiet operation and polished, muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Daybreak is ideal for workspaces or settings where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches provide a clacky and resonant typing experience with a silky smooth feel thanks to the impeccable factory lube job. Categorized as clacky, resonant, silky, and high-pitched, these switches offer a different auditory and tactile experience compared to the Daybreak. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we see a significant difference in the top housing materials used. The Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate in the Daybreak is better suited for those looking for a brighter and more defined auditory experience, while the POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2) caters to those who prefer a deeper and softer sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both switches opt for nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in housing material between the Daybreak and the Strawberry Wine (V2) ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a consistent deep and full sound profile, regardless of the specific switch model.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the typing experience. While the Daybreak and the Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in their top housing materials, with the former utilizing polycarbonate and the latter using POM, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar deep and full sound profile. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted sound of POM, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Daybreak switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The actuation force of the Daybreak switch is not specified, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Daybreak switch. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch more suitable for long periods of typing or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Daybreak switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Strawberry Wine has a shorter travel distance compared to the Daybreak. The Daybreak falls closer to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Strawberry Wine leans towards the shorter end at 3.4 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Daybreak with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound that adds a crisp and bright tone to each keystroke. Both switches excel in providing unique auditory experiences, with the Daybreak leaning towards a more subdued sound while the Strawberry Wine V2 offering a more vibrant and lively sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is said to be silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by offering a seamless and enjoyable feel with each keystroke.
Overall, while the Durock Daybreak and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches have distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both cater to individuals seeking a premium typing experience. Whether you prefer the muted and low-pitched sound of the Daybreak or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Strawberry Wine (V2), you can expect a high-quality switch with exceptional performance. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier typing feel with a quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a clacky and resonant sound profile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its 50g bottom out force and exceptional factory lube job might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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