Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Wine Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to consider their unique features and characteristics. The Durock Daybreak switch is a linear switch that offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a heftier typing experience. This switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for workspaces or any environment where noise levels need to be kept minimal. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch, also a linear switch, offers a pillowy light typing feel and a deep, rich sound profile. While the Daybreak switch is categorized as 'Polished,' 'Muted,' and 'Low-pitched,' the Wine Red switch is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched.' Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on 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
44g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Wine Red, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches intended for RGB lighting. However, the Daybreak differs from the Wine Red in its nylon bottom housing. Typing on the Daybreak, which uses nylon, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red.
The use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housing contributes to a similar sound profile, creating a sharp and clear resonance when keys are pressed. However, the contrasting bottom housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Daybreak absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during key presses, while the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Wine Red maintains the sharp and crisp sound. This difference in bottom housing materials showcases how housing material can significantly influence the overall typing experience of a switch.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch design, it's important to note how the qualities of the top and bottom housing contribute to the overall typing experience. The split in housing materials between the Daybreak and the Wine Red highlights this point, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release. Whether using nylon or polycarbonate, the choice of housing material can significantly alter the sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch, allowing for customization and variation in typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, the Daybreak has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Wine Red's 55 grams. The actuation force of the Daybreak is not specified, while the Wine Red has an actuation force of 44 grams, making it lighter in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Wine Red would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Daybreak would be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Daybreak leans towards a medium-heavy feel, whereas the Wine Red falls into the medium-light category. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of individuals looking for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Wine Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Daybreak. Both of these switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Daybreak being slightly shorter. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Daybreak with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Wine Red. 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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter and bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch provides a satisfyingly deep and rich sound, giving off a pillowy light type feel with a bassy and low-pitched tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information about the specific feel of the KTT Wine Red switch is unknown.
Overall, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter sound profile, the Durock Daybreak linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pillowy light type feel with a deep and rich sound, the KTT Wine Red linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you go for the Daybreak or the Wine Red, you can expect to get a satisfying typing experience tailored to your specific tastes.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a satisfyingly rich sound profile, the Wine Red with its 55g bottom out force is the way to go. Additionally, if you value a smoother and refined typing feel, the polished Daybreak may be more appealing to you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so keep these factors in mind when making your decision. Happy typing!
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