Durock Daybreak vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves deliberating between various options. Two noteworthy linear switches are the Durock Daybreak and the Bsun Tomcat, each offering unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Durock Daybreak features a substantial actuation force of 67g, providing a heftier, more tactile experience that many users appreciate, especially in environments where noise levels need to be kept in check thanks to its quiet operation. This switch is characterized as polished, muted, and low-pitched, making it a great fit for office settings or shared spaces. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat delivers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with its Ly stems, which create a resonant sound profile that many users find pleasurable. While both switches are linear, their individual characteristics appeal to distinct styles of typing and environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Daybreak Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Durock Daybreak and the Bsun Tomcat switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a distinctively sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This characteristic is a direct consequence of polycarbonate's relative stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when the switches are activated. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate not only contributes to the acoustic performance but also makes it particularly advantageous in applications featuring RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination through the switch housing. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches due to their shared top housing material.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Daybreak and Tomcat switches are made from nylon, a material famed for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory output compared to harder plastics. This combination of materials means that when the switches are pressed, the quality of the bottom housing becomes prominent. The nylon bottom of both Switches will contribute to a softer and more muted sound during the actuation, complementing the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate tops.

When considering the overall sound profile and tactile response while typing, the dual-material construction plays a pivotal role. While the polycarbonate top contributes to the higher-pitched sounds when releasing a key, the nylon bottom is instrumental in shaping the bottom-out feel and noise. This means that although the Daybreak and Tomcat switches share similarities in their material use for the top and bottom housing, the distinct sound characteristics inherent to each material will ensure that users experience a well-rounded sound profile. Ultimately, this pairing of materials creates a balanced acoustic performance, allowing for excellent typing feedback and sound quality across both models.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak switch has an actuation force listed as None grams, suggesting that it lacks a defined actuation pressure, while its bottom out force is 67 grams, which indicates a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Tomcat switch has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This means that the Tomcat is the lighter switch overall, offering a softer typing experience that may be favorable for long typing sessions or gaming. The Daybreak, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a firmer tactile experience. Thus, those who prioritize lighter keys might gravitate towards the Tomcat, whereas users seeking more resistance and a pronounced feedback may find the Daybreak more suitable.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Daybreak has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Tomcat measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Tomcat the shorter option, providing a slightly more responsive feel that many gamers might prefer for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Daybreak's longer travel distance of 3.8 mm caters to users who enjoy a deeper keystroke, offering a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for faster inputs, the Tomcat may suit your needs better, while the Daybreak might be more appealing if you prefer that hearty depth in your keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switches are characterized by their muted and low-pitched audio profile. This means they produce a softer sound that minimizes the mechanical noise typical of switches, making them particularly suitable for environments where noise control is necessary. The muffled tone contributes to a subtle typing experience, allowing for focused work without distraction. In contrast, the sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat linear switches is not specified, but it is known that they produce a resonant sound when used. While the Daybreak's sound is intended to be quiet and bass-heavy, the Tomcat switches may offer a more pronounced audio experience depending on their design and materials, which could add an engaging layer to the typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switches excel with their polished finish that provides a sleek and smooth typing experience. This characteristic is a result of either high-quality materials or effective factory lubing, which reduces friction and enhances key travel. Users can expect a refined touch that facilitates comfortable prolonged typing sessions. The tactile feedback and actuation at 67g also contribute to a more substantial feel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Bsun Tomcat switches. Without this, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison, though the mention of Ly stems suggests that there may be a focus on smoothness as well.

In conclusion, both the Durock Daybreak and Bsun Tomcat linear switches cater to unique preferences, balancing sound and feel in their own ways. The Daybreak’s heavy actuation and muted, low-pitched sound make it an excellent pick for quieter environments, along with a polished and smooth typing experience. Although the Tomcat’s sound characteristics lean toward a more resonant profile, the unknowns regarding their tactile feel create some uncertainty. Overall, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences that cater to different user needs; however, those prioritizing sound dampening and smoothness would find the Daybreak particularly appealing.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a firmer typing experience with a bottom out force of 67 grams, the Daybreak is an excellent option, especially if you work in a shared space where a quieter operation is essential. The muted and low-pitched sound profile makes it perfect for environments that require minimal distraction, while its polished feel ensures a smooth key travel that enhances your overall typing experience. Conversely, if you're looking for something lighter and smoother, the Tomcat switch with its 54-gram bottom out force and Ly stems will cater to your need for speed and rapid key presses. The resonant sound profile may provide a satisfying auditory experience, especially suited for personal use or in a quieter setting. Evaluating your typing style, preference for actuation force, and the desired sound environment will guide you in selecting the right switch for your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Daybreak Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more