Durock Daybreak vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Jwick Taro offer unique typing experiences for enthusiasts to choose from. The Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight, providing a hefty typing experience with quiet operation, making it ideal for workspaces. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch with a cozy typing experience, offering a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Daybreak is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', the Taro is described as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', 'Stepped'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but ultimately the best choice will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Jwick Taro, it is evident that both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, due to the translucency of polycarbonate, it is especially ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches indicate that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on either the Daybreak or the Taro.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Durock Daybreak and Jwick Taro utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches indicates that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, further emphasizing the consistent quality between the Daybreak and Taro switches.
Overall, while the Durock Daybreak and Jwick Taro may differ in certain aspects, such as design and branding, their housing materials provide a similar typing experience. The shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a distinctive sound profile that is sharp, crisp, and deep. Whether users choose the Daybreak or Taro, they can anticipate a high-quality typing experience with the benefits of the selected housing materials enhancing the overall performance of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have the same bottom out force of 67 grams. However, the actuation force of the Daybreak is unspecified, while the Taro also has an actuation force of None grams. This means that while the bottom out force is the same for both switches, the actuation force of the Taro remains unknown. In terms of weight, both switches offer a medium-heavy typing experience when bottoming out. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, which can be found in the Daybreak, while others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum, with the Daybreak being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of these switches for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial feel may opt for switches with longer travel distances. Overall, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant for most users, and both options can provide similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound, which is suitable for most purposes and preferences. While both switches offer different sound characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the setup of your keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Jwick Taro switch is labeled as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage feel which can provide a different tactile experience compared to the Daybreak. Again, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak provides a heavier touch with a quieter sound and polished feel, while the Taro offers a medium-level of tactility with a cozy sound and a buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. It is important to also consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard setup to fully optimize the typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you prefer a heavier touch and a quieter operation, the Daybreak may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a medium-level of tactility and a comfortable typing sensation, the Taro switch could be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound profile you prefer, as the Daybreak offers a muted and low-pitched sound, while the Taro provides a neutral sound experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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