Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Daybreak and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream are two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Daybreak is known for its solid 67g weight, providing a hefty typing experience that appeals to those who prefer a more significant touch. Additionally, its quiet operation makes it an ideal choice for workspaces or settings where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch from KTT stands out for its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, offering typists a smooth and creamy feel reminiscent of its namesake dessert. Moreover, it delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, we see that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially noticeable when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. This shows how the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the auditory experience of typing on a keyboard.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Daybreak's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the contrary, the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing is known for its smoothness and durability, with wear resistance surpassing that of other materials like POM and Nylon. This demonstrates how the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience, affecting factors such as sound profile, smoothness, and durability.
While the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream may have different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material are spread throughout the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a balance of qualities, with the Daybreak emphasizing clarity and resonance in sound profiles, and the Vanilla Ice Cream focusing on a clacky and durable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing feel and sound of a keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that they offer different typing experiences. The Daybreak switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option, while its actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Daybreak switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be the better choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Daybreak switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, the Daybreak offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. Gamers looking for a faster response time may lean towards the shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Daybreak more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter option in shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch produces a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile, providing a distinct auditory experience that stands out from the crowd. Depending on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used, users can choose between the softer sound of the Daybreak or the sharper sound of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is likened to being buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation that feels like gliding across the keys with ease. Both switches offer a premium feel, but the Daybreak focuses on a polished finish, while the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes a buttery and creamy typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer unique sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a quieter, heavier typing experience with the Daybreak or a distinct, smooth, and creamy feel with the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches deliver a high-quality typing experience that is sure to please newcomers and experienced users alike. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a more muted, low-pitched sound, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. However, if you lean towards a lighter touch and enjoy a high-pitched, marbly, resonant sound, then the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound profile that best suits your typing style and environment.
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