Durock Daybreak vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Daybreak and the Durock Dolphin mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak provides a hefty typing experience with its 67g actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a more significant touch while maintaining quiet operation. On the other hand, the Dolphin offers a medium-heavy 62g actuation force, striking a balance between precision and a satisfying press in a silent switch design, perfect for office environments. Both switches fall under the categories of 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', offering a refined typing experience. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and Durock Dolphin both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that produces clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Daybreak and Dolphin differ in their bottom housing material, with the Daybreak featuring nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics like polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing, both the Durock Daybreak and Durock Dolphin share the same polycarbonate top housing material. This means that when it comes to the sound produced when typing and releasing a key, users can expect similar results from both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound profile that is accentuated by the material's translucency, making it perfect for switches with RGB lighting. However, where the switches will differ is in the feel and sound when bottoming out a key, as the bottom housing material plays a significant role in this aspect.
In summary, although both the Durock Daybreak and Durock Dolphin boast polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharp and crisp sound profile, they diverge in their bottom housing material. The Daybreak's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dolphin's nylon bottom housing produces a duller and rounder sound. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing and releasing keys, allowing for a varied and customizable typing experience depending on the user's preference for sound profile.
Weight
The Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch both have unknown actuation forces, but differ in their bottom out forces. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dolphin would be the better choice, while the Daybreak would suit those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, so users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of weight and feel.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience with both switches. Overall, the travel distance of the Daybreak and Dolphin switches is equal, making them equally suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a consistent typing experience.
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 Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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, both the Durock Daybreak and Durock Dolphin switches are described as having a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making them ideal choices for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so you can expect similar results in sound from both switches.
When it comes to feel, both the Daybreak and Dolphin switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall typing experience and contributes to the satisfaction of using either switch. With this in mind, you can expect a similar level of feel and performance from both switches.
Overall, whether you choose the Durock Daybreak or Dolphin linear switches, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with a focus on quiet operation and a polished feel. The Daybreak's heavier actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial touch, while the Dolphin's medium-heavy actuation force strikes a balance between precision and satisfaction. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent options for different preferences and settings, providing a reliable and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, consider your preference for typing force and noise level. If you enjoy a heavier typing experience and need a quieter switch, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter feel with a similar quiet operation, the Dolphin with its 62g bottom out force may be the better option for you. Both switches offer a polished typing experience, so the decision really comes down to your personal preferences for typing force and noise level. Happy typing!
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