Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak, with its hefty 67g actuation force, provides a solid and substantial typing experience ideal for those who prefer a heavier touch. Its quiet operation makes it suitable for work environments where noise levels must be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is characterized by a gummy typing feel and a deep, muted sound profile, offering a satisfying and enjoyable 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and the Gateron North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences in housing materials for the Daybreak and North Pole V2 manifest in how the switch behaves when pressed and released. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. The softer nylon of the Daybreak will likely result in a quieter and more cushioned bottom-out compared to the stiffer polycarbonate of the North Pole V2. Conversely, the top housing material, polycarbonate in both cases, will influence the sound produced when a key is released. This means that the switches may have a similar sound profile when pressed, but the release sound may vary.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron North Pole V2 will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The Daybreak offers a contrast between the deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing and the sharp, clear sound from the polycarbonate top housing. Meanwhile, the North Pole V2 maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Both switches are suitable for those looking for distinct sound profiles, with the Daybreak offering a more nuanced experience with its two different housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the North Pole V2 requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Daybreak's unspecified force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Daybreak requiring 67 grams and the North Pole V2 needing 65 grams. This means that while the North Pole V2 is lighter to actuate, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the North Pole V2, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience may lean towards the Daybreak.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, we find that the Daybreak has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The Daybreak offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a more substantial and deliberate key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Daybreak being the shorter option and the North Pole V2 being the longer option. Both switches offer a reliable typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of performance regardless of the travel distance variance.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is bass-heavy and mellow. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch delivers a subdued sound that is dampened when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Both switches aim to reduce noise levels, with the Daybreak catering to a quieter workspace setting and the North Pole V2 providing a deep and satisfying typing sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Durock Daybreak is described as polished, featuring a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel and reduced friction. Meanwhile, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel, creating a unique typing experience that feels like bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The creamy sensation of the North Pole V2 switch provides a smooth and buttery feel, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke.
Overall, both the Durock Daybreak and Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Daybreak focuses on a heavier touch with a muted and low-pitched sound, while the North Pole V2 delivers a gummy and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound profile. Depending on personal preference for key feel and sound profile, users can choose between the heavy and quiet operation of the Daybreak or the chewy and satisfying typing feel of the North Pole V2. Both switches provide a high-quality typing experience but cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches, consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a muted and low-pitched sound, the Durock Daybreak would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gummy, creamy, and bouncy typing feel with a subdued sound, the Gateron North Pole V2 would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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