Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Ink Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, the Daybreak stands out as a linear switch with a solid 67g weight that provides a hefty typing experience. Its heavy actuation force combined with quiet operation makes it ideal for workspaces where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow offers a shorter travel and a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. It is known for its smoothness and clackiness. While the Daybreak is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Ink Yellow is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Daybreak utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, while the INK blend provides a satisfying, thin, and clacky sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the proprietary blend of the Ink Yellow adds a unique visual appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Daybreak features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow also utilizes their proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar high-pitched and satisfying sound profile characterized by its clacky nature. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Interestingly, the impact of the housing material is felt differently depending on whether it's the top or bottom housing of the switch. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and further highlights the distinct characteristics of each switch. Ultimately, both the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Ink Yellow offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Daybreak has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Ink Yellow has a slightly lighter actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Daybreak will offer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Ink Yellow will provide a slightly lighter touch for triggering keystrokes. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 67 grams, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel when fully pressed. Ultimately, weight preference plays a significant role in choosing between the two switches, with lighter options being better suited for longer typing sessions and heavier options providing a more impactful typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times. However, the Daybreak has a slightly longer travel distance than the Ink Yellow. If you prefer a bit more depth in your keystrokes, you may lean towards the Daybreak. On the other hand, if you prefer a more abrupt and responsive feel, the Ink Yellow may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with slight variations that cater to different preferences.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter option with a deeper tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch provides a neutral sound profile with a clacky touch, offering a middle-ground option suitable for various users. Overall, both switches will give you a pleasant typing sound depending on your preference, with the Daybreak leaning towards a softer and bass-heavy tone, while the Ink Yellow delivers a more moderate sound with a sharp and snappy edge.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is also polished, providing a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. Both switches aim to deliver a sleek and comfortable feel while typing, ensuring an enjoyable experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. With their polished finishes, you can expect a level of smoothness and refinement that enhances the overall typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Ink Yellow switches have their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both offer quality options for those looking for linear switches. The Daybreak excels in providing a quieter and lower-pitched sound with a polished feel, perfect for those who prefer a heftier touch. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow offers a neutral sound profile with a clacky touch and a smooth, polished feel, catering to a broader range of users. Ultimately, both switches are solid choices that will deliver satisfying typing experiences, with slight differences in sound and feel to suit individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Daybreak linear switch or the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heftier touch with a quieter operation and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Daybreak may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, with a smooth and clacky feel and a neutral, clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Yellow could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel.
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