Durock Daybreak vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique advantages to cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak switches provide a heavier typing experience at 67g, appealing to those who prefer a significant touch and require a quiet operation, making them suitable for work environments. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer a lighter and more delicate typing experience, making them ideal for extended typing sessions. While the Daybreak is known for being polished, muted, and low-pitched, the Yanyu is characterized by a neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished profile. Ultimately, both switches have distinct qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for creating resonant sounds. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and bright sound profile that is not particularly sharp. Both housing materials cater to different preferences in sound quality, with the polycarbonate being more clear and the blend offering a fuller and deeper sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is unique to this material. Conversely, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing also provides a unique sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. Despite both switch models utilizing different materials in their bottom housings, each material brings its own qualities to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the top and bottom housings of the Durock Daybreak and SP-Star Yanyu switches creates a dynamic sound profile that caters to a variety of preferences. While the Daybreak leans towards a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Yanyu offers a more balanced and bright sound profile with its unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in both the top and bottom housings. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that showcases the impact of housing material on sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is considered light. The actuation force for both switches is none, meaning it is unknown. This makes the Yanyu a lighter option compared to the Daybreak, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak may be preferable for those who desire a more substantial typing feel. 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, which is shorter than the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Daybreak would be considered the shorter option compared to the Yanyu. The shorter travel distance of the Daybreak may be more appealing to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Yanyu might provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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
The Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its quiet and low-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more muted typing experience. It offers a polished feel, with smooth key travel and reduced friction, providing a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a crisp and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and rich sound when pressed. The Yanyu switch provides a mild and feathery feel, offering a gentle typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak switch provides a heavier and quieter typing experience with a polished feel, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial touch and refined key travel. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a lighter and more delicate typing experience with a crisper sound profile and feathery feel, making it suitable for long typing sessions without causing strain on the fingers. Depending on personal preference and typing habits, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force and muted, low-pitched sound may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and a crisp, thocky sound profile, the Yanyu with its 43g bottom out force and feathery, subtle feel might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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