Durock Daybreak vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer unique experiences for typists. The Durock Daybreak switches are praised for their solid 67g weight, providing a satisfyingly hefty typing experience that enthusiasts of a more substantial touch will appreciate. Not only do they boast a heavy actuation force, but they also operate quietly, making them an ideal choice for work environments or anywhere noise reduction is crucial. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, made by BSUN, delivers a chewy typing feel that engulfs fingertips with each press. Known for its bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel produces a pronounced resonance at key bottom-out, adding a satisfying touch to each keystroke. While both switches have their own unique characteristics, which may appeal to different preferences, it's essential to dive deeper beyond these generalities to determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Daybreak utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel uses a POM bottom housing, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. This is different from the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing, which offers a different sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, providing a consistent sharp and clear sound profile. However, the split between the bottom and top housing materials means that the characteristics of each material will impact different aspects of the typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the PH Studio Yoel will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Daybreak offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the Yoel provides a unique and pleasing sound with its POM bottom housing. Both switches share the benefit of polycarbonate top housing, which ensures a consistently sharp and clear sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, the actuation force of the Daybreak is labeled as None grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams. This means that the Yoel switch requires a slight amount of force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Daybreak, whose actuation force is unspecified. In terms of bottom out force, the Daybreak has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Yoel has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Daybreak switch ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Yoel switch is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may find these shorter travel distances to be advantageous for fast-paced gameplay. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, preferring switches with longer travel distances for a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Daybreak and Yoel switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key 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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a unique marbly and resonant quality. The Daybreak's sound is more subtle and bass-heavy, while the Yoel's sound is crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the desired noise level in your workspace.
When it comes to feel, both the Daybreak and Yoel switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience. The Daybreak is described as polished, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the Yoel is characterized as creamy, offering a silky sensation as your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. Both switches have been lauded for their comfortable typing feel, ensuring a pleasant tactile experience for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, catering to diverse preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If you enjoy a heavier touch and quieter operation, the Daybreak may be the ideal choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a clacky sound with a creamy and polished typing feel, the Yoel switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and customization options, allowing users to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, in choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier touch and quiet operation, opt for the Durock Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more resonant typing feel with a lower 60g bottom out force, the PH Studio Yoel might be the better choice for you. The Daybreak offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile with a polished feel, while the Yoel provides a brighter and clackier sound with a creamy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for typing comfort and sound aesthetics.
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