Durock Daybreak vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch stand out as popular choices for different typing preferences. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch known for its solid 67g weight, providing a heavier typing experience while maintaining a quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a lighter touch and a neutral sound signature, catering to those looking for a balanced typing experience. While the Daybreak is polished, muted, and low-pitched, the Violet Gold Pro is stepped and neutral. Both switches have their unique strengths, and choosing between them ultimately depends on the individual's typing preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Daybreak and Violet Gold Pro differ in their bottom housing material, with the Daybreak featuring nylon while the Violet Gold Pro also utilizes nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics for a duller and rounder sound.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. This material's unique properties contribute to a resonant sound that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the distinction lies in the bottom housing material, with both the Daybreak and Violet Gold Pro employing nylon. This choice creates a deeper and fuller sound profile that adds a different dimension to the typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a more muted and round sound compared to the crispness of polycarbonate.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is essential to recognize how the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Daybreak and Violet Gold Pro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing allows for a unique sound profile in each switch, making them distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to the user. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a lighter touch, but its bottom out force is unknown. The Daybreak switch would be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Violet Gold Pro would cater to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience and should be considered based on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both offer a consistent travel distance, providing a similar typing experience for users. Both switches have a smooth and satisfying key press, with the Daybreak offering a linear feel and the Violet Gold Pro providing a tactile bump. Despite their differences in switch type, the travel distance remains consistent between the two switches, ensuring that users can achieve similar results in typing speed and accuracy.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter and deeper sounding keyboard. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, which can be suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preference for noise level and tone.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch provides a polished typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and offers smooth key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feel, giving users a two-stage keystroke sensation with some pre-travel and post-travel. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother or more tactile typing experience, both switches provide distinct feels for different typing preferences.
Looking at all the available information, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Daybreak provides a heavier touch with muted and low-pitched sound, ideal for those who prefer a weightier and quieter typing experience. Meanwhile, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a neutral sound and stepped tactile feel, catering to users looking for a balanced and two-stage keystroke sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, allowing them to customize their typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter sound profile, the Durock Daybreak linear switch with its 67g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a balanced tactile typing experience with a lighter touch and neutral sound signature, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for actuation force, sound, and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
Mentioned in this article
