Durock Daybreak vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and the Gazzew U4Tx present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences. The Daybreak, a linear switch, offers a solid 67g weight for a satisfyingly hefty touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Its quiet operation and low-pitched sound profile make it well-suited for environments where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the U4Tx, a tactile switch, combines the best of both worlds by providing a clean and refined sound profile. With a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, the U4Tx switches offer a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. Both switches have their merits, but ultimately, choosing between them comes down to personal preference 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Gazzew U4Tx both bring unique qualities to the switches. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also offers a rich and deep sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
One of the key differences between the Daybreak and the U4Tx is the use of polycarbonate in the Daybreak's top housing versus the proprietary Gazzew blend in the U4Tx. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound, whereas the Gazzew blend's softness results in a rich and deep sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the Gazzew blend offers a unique sound experience. Despite these differences, both housing materials have their own appeal and contribute to the overall typing sound and feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Daybreak and the U4Tx may differ, each housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak or the proprietary Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx, both switches aim to provide users with an enhanced typing experience through their unique housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which is a medium force. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but they are likely to be similar since they fall within the same weight category for bottom out force. When comparing weight, some users prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others prefer a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Durock Daybreak would be considered the heavier option compared to the Gazzew U4Tx.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. The Daybreak is slightly longer in terms of travel distance, offering a slightly deeper feel when pressed compared to the U4Tx. However, the difference of 0.2 mm may not be significant enough to notice a major distinction between the two switches in terms of travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance and would result in similar typing experiences for most users.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched tones, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for quieter environments. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a bassy and muted sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer tone with each keypress. Both switches aim to minimize noise, but the Daybreak leans towards a mellow sound while the U4Tx offers a more resonant "thock" noise, creating a unique auditory experience depending on personal preference, keycap material, and keyboard build.
In terms of feel, the Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp bump with each keypress for enhanced typing precision. The Daybreak focuses on a sleek and polished feel, perfect for those who prefer a smooth typing experience, while the U4Tx prioritizes intense tactile feedback, catering to users who enjoy a more distinct and satisfying keypress sensation.
Overall, when comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Daybreak excels in providing a muted and low-pitched sound along with a polished and smooth typing feel, ideal for those looking for a quieter and refined typing experience. Meanwhile, the U4Tx stands out with its bassy and resonant sound profile coupled with a sharp and intense tactile feedback, appealing to users seeking a richer auditory experience and a distinct keypress sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying and personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your personal preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier touch and quieter operation, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined sound profile with a sharp and distinct tactile bump, the U4Tx could be the ideal switch for your keyboard. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make your decision based on what feels best for you.
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