Durock Daybreak vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and Haimu Viola Tricolor offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight, providing a hefty touch that appeals to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Its quiet operation makes it suitable for environments where noise reduction is crucial, making it a great choice for workspace settings. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a unique character to your typing. With pronounced tactility that offers satisfying feedback without being overly tactile, the Viola Tricolor strikes a balance between sharp sensation and user comfort. Both switches offer their own advantages, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting compatibility, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, while both switches share this common feature, the differences in their bottom housing materials - nylon for the Daybreak and nylon for the Viola Tricolor - bring about variations in sound profiles. The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the distinction between their nylon bottom housing materials significantly impacts the overall typing experience. The Durock Daybreak, with its nylon bottom housing, offers a more resonant and impactful bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor, also featuring a nylon bottom housing, provides a softer and more absorptive typing experience, resulting in a rounder sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housing materials showcases how the combination of different materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In conclusion, while the Durock Daybreak and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both incorporate polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profiles. The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the typing experience allows enthusiasts to make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel when selecting a keyboard switch.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but based on their bottom out force, they both fall into the medium-heavy category. When considering weight, those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Viola Tricolor for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while others who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the slightly heavier Daybreak for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while the actuation force may play a role in responsiveness, the bottom out force may significantly impact the overall typing feel and satisfaction for users.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same level of travel distance. This similarity allows for consistent typing or gaming experience across both switches. Whether you choose the Daybreak or the Viola Tricolor, you can expect the same reliable performance in terms of travel distance.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience with a deeper tone. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, adding a sense of character and richness to each key press. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor switch is characterized as accented and invigorating, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming, and offering a snappy and reactive feel during typing. These differences in feel cater to individuals who prefer a smoother typing experience versus those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on personal preferences. Whether you prefer a muted and polished switch like the Daybreak or a bassy and invigorating switch like the Viola Tricolor, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a balanced tactility and a thuddy sound profile, the Viola Tricolor could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Whether you choose the Daybreak for its polished feel and muted sound or the Viola Tricolor for its invigorating tactility and bassy sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Keep these factors in mind when choosing your next mechanical keyboard switch.
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