Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Box CJ
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Box CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Box CJ stand out with their unique characteristics. The Durock Anubis is a tactile switch renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with a prominent bump that sets it apart from other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the attributes of CJ switches with the speed characteristics, catering to those who value rapid response. Typists can enjoy higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel with the Box CJ. While the Anubis provides a sharp tactility and intense keystrokes, the Box CJ delivers a fast and smooth 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
15.4mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Gateron Box CJ both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile that is deeper and fuller. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This means that when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a consistent and pleasant typing experience that is characterized by a quieter bottom-out sound.
In contrast, the Durock Anubis features a nylon top housing, while the Gateron Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Anubis creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate compared to the softness of nylon leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile in the Box CJ. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering a visually pleasing experience for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects.
Overall, the differences in top housing materials between the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Box CJ result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile, the top housing materials provide unique characteristics that shape the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a rounder and duller sound produced by nylon or a crisper and sharper sound from polycarbonate, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that showcases the impact of housing materials on sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, and an actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Box CJ lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Anubis. The actuation force of the Anubis is unknown, so if it happens to be 45 grams as well, then both switches would provide a similar typing experience in terms of force. Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing between these two switches, as the Anubis would be ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with heavier forces, while the Box CJ would be better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same for both. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience and feedback from either switch in terms of travel distance. This makes them ideal choices for those who prefer a consistent feel when typing or gaming. Additionally, the equal travel distances of both switches make them versatile options for a variety of typing or gaming preferences, as users won't have to adjust their typing style based on the switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
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 provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, offering a pronounced bump that adds intensity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch produces higher-pitched clacks, giving a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, the Box CJ may have a little chirp to its sound, providing a unique acoustic signature. Sound preference ultimately comes down to personal taste and can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis switch is known for its accented tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. The switch also provides a polished typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. Conversely, the Box CJ switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable, suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Anubis emphasizing tactile feedback while the Box CJ focuses on smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound with a pronounced tactile bump, while the Box CJ delivers higher-pitched clacks and a smooth typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Anubis appealing to those who prefer intense tactile feedback and the Box CJ suiting those who seek a rapid and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a deep and resonant sound profile, along with a pronounced bump for intense tactility, then the Durock Anubis would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that offers swift characteristics with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, then the Gateron Box CJ switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider your preference for sound profile and tactility when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your typing style and needs the most.
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