Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Baby Raccoon. The Durock Anubis is a tactile switch beloved for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. With a more pronounced bump compared to other tactile switches, the Anubis offers a sharp tactility that adds a new level of intensity to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is a linear switch known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp feel. The extended switch stems contribute to a distinct characteristic that can only be described as "marbley." While both switches have their own unique qualities, it's important to look beyond generalities and dive deeper into their specific features to determine the best fit for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Gateron Baby Raccoon have contrasting materials for their top housings. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Baby Raccoon's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. A notable difference is that the Baby Raccoon's clear polycarbonate housing is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light transmission.
When it comes to their bottom housings, both the Anubis and the Baby Raccoon share the same nylon material. As a result, both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will be quite similar due to the shared housing material.
It's important to note that the properties of the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound experience of a switch. While the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has more impact on the sound when you release a key. Therefore, despite their differing top housings, both the Anubis and the Baby Raccoon are likely to offer similar results in terms of the sound produced when a key is let go.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch, there are notable differences. The Anubis has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it difficult to determine a specific comparison. However, its bottom out force is 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a lighter touch required for keystrokes. Its bottom out force measures at 63 grams, which falls into the medium category.
Considering weight and preference, those who favor a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Baby Raccoon switch. This lighter actuation force can facilitate typing for longer periods and is ideal for instances like bringing a keyboard to work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. Meanwhile, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Anubis switch more suitable. The heavier bottom out force of 65 grams provides a sense of solidity and satisfaction during typing.
Although the specific actuation force of the Anubis switch remains unknown, the comparable bottom out force indicates that the results obtained from both switches would be similar in terms of requiring a medium to medium-heavy force. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the more traditional option. On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and precise keystrokes, the Baby Raccoon may be the better choice for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. In this case, the Anubis with its longer travel distance would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50.
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
The Durock Anubis tactile switch is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. It has a more pronounced bump compared to most other tactile switches, offering a sharp and intense tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is characterized by a bright sound signature, with a clean and sharp sound profile. It has a higher-pitched sound and a refreshing crisp type feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. These switches can be described as marbley, meaning they are resonant, high-pitched, and clean in sound.
In terms of sound, the Anubis switch is considered to have a neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon switch is described as resonant, producing a higher-pitched sound profile, which provides an immersive auditory experience. It can also be categorized as marbly, with a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. Furthermore, these switches are known for their high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Anubis switch can be described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Baby Raccoon switch is known for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This can be attributed to factory lubrication or specific materials. The switch is also described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, it offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Similar to the Anubis switch, the Baby Raccoon switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Durock Anubis tactile switch stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile, assertive tactile feedback, and polished feel. It provides a sharp tactility and a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a bright sound signature, refreshing crisp type feel, and a smooth, buttery typing experience. While the switches have different characteristics, they both excel in their respective qualities. If you prefer a deep and resonant sound with sharp tactility, the Anubis switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a bright and crisp sound with a buttery typing feel, the Baby Raccoon switch would be a great option. It is important to note that the ultimate typing experience can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke, the Durock Anubis tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Anubis has a more pronounced bump compared to most other tactile switches, providing a sharp tactility that adds intensity to your typing experience. Additionally, the Anubis has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, which gives it a medium-heavy feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great option. The Baby Raccoon switches are characterized by their longer switch stems, which contribute to their unique "marbley" sound profile. These switches produce a clean and sharp high-pitched sound, creating an immersive auditory experience. Furthermore, the Baby Raccoon has a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium feel when typing.
Overall, if you prioritize intense tactility and a deep sound profile, the Durock Anubis would be the switch of choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright, high-pitched sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon would be the switch to go for. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value the most.
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