Durock Anubis vs. Dareu Aqua
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Aqua switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, distinct differences emerge in their design and functionality. The Anubis is renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that adds intensity to each keystroke. In contrast, the Aqua features a super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. While the Anubis falls under categories like 'Accented', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Aqua is labeled as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery'. Each switch caters to specific preferences, with the Anubis ideal for those seeking a sharp tactility and the Aqua suitable for individuals desiring a lighter typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Dareu Aqua have different top housing materials, with the Anubis featuring a nylon top housing and the Aqua featuring a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Anubis creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as the stiffer plastic material leads to a clearer and resonant sound. This difference in top housing material directly impacts the overall sound experience of the switches.
Both the Anubis and the Aqua have bottom housings made from nylon, which offers a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, the different top housing materials still play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. This highlights how the combination of top and bottom housing materials influences the overall typing experience.
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Aqua, it is evident that the top housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the bottom housing material is consistent in both switches with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, the difference in top housing materials results in distinct sound characteristics. The nylon top housing of the Anubis creates a duller and rounder sound, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua produces a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience and sound preferences of users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while its actuation force is unspecified. In contrast, the Aqua has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it lighter in comparison, but its bottom out force is not provided. The difference in actuation force between the two switches could result in a more substantial typing experience with the Anubis, while the Aqua might offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Anubis leaning towards a heavier feel and the Aqua towards a lighter touch.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance can result in a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose to use. In terms of comparing and contrasting the two switches, it can be noted that their travel distances are identical, with neither being shorter or longer than the other. This makes them equally suitable for individuals who prefer a standard 4 mm travel distance when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
The Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00 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 Anubis tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying and assertive feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Aqua linear switch features a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, attributed to its super light 37g actuation force. While the Anubis provides a neutral sound suitable for various purposes, the Aqua stands out with its distinctive acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis switch is described as accented and polished, offering a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming, along with a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Aqua switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches provide unique tactile and typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound with a pronounced tactile bump, ideal for those seeking a sharp tactility, while the Aqua delivers a chirpy and clacky sound with a super light actuation force, suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique experiences that can enhance your typing and gaming sessions.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a deep sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, the Durock Anubis may be the perfect choice for you. The pronounced bump and medium-heavy bottom out force of 65g offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to enhance your productivity and enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch with its super light 37g actuation force could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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