Durock Daybreak vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak's heavy actuation force of 67g provides a solid and hefty typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch. Additionally, its quiet operation makes it a great choice for work environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch boasts a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, with transparent polycarbonate and UHMWPE housing allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, clear polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials.
The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, a newer material that provides a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. This shows that the housing materials of the switches play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
When comparing the two switches, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom influences different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to the switch, users can tailor their choice based on preferences for sound profile, feel, and aesthetics. Ultimately, both the Durock Daybreak and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear offer unique typing experiences due to their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The actuation force for the Daybreak is unknown, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Aurora Clear would be the better option with its lower bottom out force. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Durock Daybreak could provide a satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same level of key travel. The similarity in their travel distances ensures that whether you choose the Daybreak or the WS Aurora Clear, you can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Both switches offer a consistent feel and actuation point due to their identical travel distances. In conclusion, the travel distances of these switches are equal, providing users with a consistent typing experience regardless of which one they choose.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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, ideal for those seeking a quieter mechanical keyboard. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch provides a high-pitched sound profile, adding a sharp and crisp dimension to typing. Depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard, each switch can offer a unique auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Daybreak switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch is noted for its buttery and mild feel, offering a seamless and gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches emphasize smooth key travel and effortless keystrokes, catering to users who prioritize comfort and consistency in typing.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch each present distinct qualities in sound and feel. While the Daybreak excels in providing a heavier touch with a quieter sound profile, the WS Aurora Clear stands out for its smoothness and high-pitched typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their mechanical keyboard setup. Whether opting for the Daybreak or the WS Aurora Clear, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with reliable performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter sound profile, the Daybreak may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear could be the ideal choice. Consider the specific qualities and characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel.
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