Durock Anubis vs. Kailh Berry
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Kailh Berry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various options available to suit different preferences. The Durock Anubis stands out as a tactile switch, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. This switch boasts a more pronounced bump compared to most other tactile switches, providing a sharp tactility that intensifies each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry is a linear switch known for its hefty typing experience. It offers a springy type feel and has a chalk-like texture when typing on them. The sound profile of the Berry switches is fairly deep. Both switches have unique characteristics, making them suitable for different typing preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Kailh Berry switches differ significantly. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Anubis appears opaque, while the Berry can have a clear housing suitable for RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Anubis and the Berry switches utilize nylon for this component. As with the nylon top housing, this material promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a consistent and balanced sound experience across the entire keypress.
It is worth noting that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the two. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Anubis and the Berry have different housing materials, they may still produce similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall sound experience, with slight variations in the specific characteristics provided by each material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch, it is important to note that the exact grams of force required for actuation is unavailable for both switches. However, it can be observed that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force.
The Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Berry has a slightly higher bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that the Berry switch would provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Anubis switch.
In terms of weight, it is worth considering that a lighter switch allows for prolonged typing sessions, making it suitable for tasks like work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These users may opt for switches with heavier forces.
Overall, while the actuation force is unknown for both switches, it can be concluded that the Durock Anubis and Kailh Berry switches share a similar medium-heavy bottom out force. Thus, if one desires a similar typing experience in terms of force required, either of these switches can be chosen.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch, it is clear that the Anubis has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Berry has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Anubis falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, providing a hearty depth to the key press. On the other hand, the Berry offers a shallower travel distance, which is preferred by gamers seeking a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth in the typing experience. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a distinct tactile feel and will provide similar results in terms of key press feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25.
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 renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile. With a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke is accompanied by a pronounced bump, adding a new level of intensity to typing. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a fairly deep sound profile. While it may not have the same pronounced bump as the Anubis, it provides a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. Overall, the Anubis is best suited for those who prefer a sharp tactility and a deep sound profile, while the Berry is ideal for those who enjoy a springy feel and a lower-pitched, bass-heavy sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. In terms of feel, the Anubis provides a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, with a polished and smooth finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Berry switch is textured, offering noticeable friction when pressed. Overall, while the Anubis and the Berry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both can provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a satisfying and assertive feedback, the Durock Anubis would be a great choice for you. With its more pronounced bump and deep sound profile, it brings a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a springy typing experience, the Kailh Berry linear switch is perfect for you. It offers a hefty and chalk-like texture when typing, providing a unique typing sensation.
In terms of sound, the Anubis has a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the Berry switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis is described as accented and polished, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming and offering a smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Berry switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users for the unique typing experience it offers.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch depends on your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider your typing style and the kind of sound and feel you prefer in a switch to make an informed decision.