Durock Daybreak vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Type L stand out as two excellent options to consider. The Daybreak, a linear switch, offers a solid 67g actuation force for a weightier typing experience while maintaining quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Type L, also a linear switch, boasts a lighter 45g actuation force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The Daybreak is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', whereas the Type L is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their unique features 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
38g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Daybreak and the Gateron Type L both utilize different housing materials for their switches. The Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Type L uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak is transparent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Type L absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
On the bottom housing side, both the Daybreak and the Type L use nylon material. This results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing. The qualities of the bottom housing have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a consistent typing experience across both switches.
Overall, while the Daybreak and the Type L have different housing materials for their top housing, they share similarities in the bottom housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of the Daybreak provides a sharper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Type L delivers a deeper sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches helps to create a fuller sound profile, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether it's the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing or the Type L's nylon top housing, users can expect a unique and satisfying sound profile from each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to the user. The Daybreak switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it more lightweight in terms of triggering keystrokes, while its bottom out force of 67 grams provides a medium-heavy typing feel. In contrast, the Type L switch requires 38 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, offering a lighter touch, and has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is also on the lighter side. This means that the Daybreak switch provides a more substantial typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Type L switch is lighter and may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences, with the Daybreak being heavier and the Type L being lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type L has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Daybreak. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter and more mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound that is still gentle on the ears. Both switches are suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check, with the Type L leaning towards a slightly deeper acoustic tone compared to the Daybreak.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Meanwhile, the Gateron Type L switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering a comfortable and responsive feel, with the Daybreak focusing on a polished finish and the Type L prioritizing ease of use.
Overall, the Durock Daybreak and Gateron Type L linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Daybreak delivers a heavier touch with a quieter operation and polished typing experience, the Type L offers a lighter keystroke with a subtly subdued sound profile and an easy-to-press feel. Depending on whether you prioritize a heftier typing experience or a lighter touch, each switch provides unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable performance and customizable options to suit your typing needs, ensuring that you can achieve similar typing results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quiet operation, the Durock Daybreak switch with its 67g bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 45g and a sound profile that veers towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Gateron Type L switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for actuation force and sound profile.
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