Durock Daybreak vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Yellow Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Durock Daybreak is a linear switch that provides a solid 67g actuation force, giving users a heftier typing experience while remaining relatively quiet, making it ideal for quiet workspaces. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch offers a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, appealing to gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While the Daybreak is known for its polished, muted, and low-pitched characteristics, the Yellow Silver switch is categorized as neutral. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Yellow Silver, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Daybreak and Yellow Silver both have a nylon bottom housing, typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
Despite having different bottom housing materials, the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Yellow Silver share similar characteristics in their top housing material, polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a distinctive sound profile that is sharper and crisper. This material also enhances the overall aesthetics of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a different typing experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in bottom housing material impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the Outemu Yellow Silver will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the Daybreak featuring a stiffer polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound, while the Yellow Silver boasts a softer nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound profile. Understanding how each housing material affects the overall typing experience is crucial in determining which switch aligns best with individual preferences. Whether it be the sharper sound of the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper sound of the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offer different actuation and bottom out forces. The Daybreak has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of initial keypress sensitivity, while the Yellow Silver requires 45 grams of force for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the Daybreak needs 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option, while the Yellow Silver requires 55 grams for bottoming out, which is considered medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Yellow Silver, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Daybreak. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Daybreak. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Daybreak being slightly shorter and the Yellow Silver being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Daybreak for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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
The Durock Daybreak switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. 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. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available for the feel of the Yellow Silver switch. Overall, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a quieter sound, the Durock Daybreak switch would be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a more versatile switch that can cater to different preferences, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be a solid choice as well. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who prefers a heavier typing experience with a quieter operation, the Durock Daybreak linear switch with its 67g bottom out force would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer or typist looking for a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch with its 55g bottom out force would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize heaviness and quietness in your typing experience or if speed and responsiveness are more important to you. Consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
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