Durock Anubis vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback, the Durock Anubis may be the perfect choice for you. Known for its deep and resonant sound profile, the Anubis offers an assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. The bump of this switch is more pronounced compared to other tactile switches, ideal for those who prefer a sharp tactility that adds a new level of intensity to their typing experience. On the other hand, if you're someone who values maximum audio feedback and a distinct tactile sensation, the Kailh Box White switch might be right up your alley. With a clicky design, this switch emits a delightful "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and delivers an accented tactility while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Kailh Box White differ in their housing materials, with the Anubis featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The choice of materials greatly impacts the sound profiles of these switches. The Anubis, with its nylon top housing, produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Box White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous if RGB lighting is utilized.
While the top housing of the Anubis and the Box White differ, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Anubis and the Kailh Box White plays a crucial role in their sound profiles. The Anubis, with its nylon top and bottom housing, produces a duller and rounder sound, while the Box White, with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound when typing on them. Whether you prefer a softer, more absorbing sound or a sharper, crisper sound, these switches offer distinct options with their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, there are a few notable differences. The Anubis switch has an unavailable actuation force, while the Box White requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Anubis requires 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Box White requires 60 grams, which is categorized as medium.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. For this purpose, the Box White with its lower actuation force may be more suitable. On the other hand, there are those who appreciate a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These users may be inclined towards the Anubis switch with its higher bottom out force.
Although the specific actuation force for the Anubis switch is unavailable, it's worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range for bottom out force. This means that users can expect similar results when it comes to pressing the keys all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference. The Anubis has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Box White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Anubis falls into the more traditional range, providing a familiar and comfortable feel when typing. On the other hand, the Box White's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, appealing to those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. While the Anubis offers a hearty depth with its longer travel distance, the Box White provides a quicker and more responsive typing experience with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences, with the Anubis offering a more traditional feel and the Box White catering to those who value speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76.
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 switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile. This switch provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke, and the bump is more pronounced compared to most other tactile switches. This creates a sharp tactility, adding a new level of intensity to typing. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White switch is known for its maximum audio feedback. When typing on these switches, you can expect a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch-like sound along with an accented tactility. The sound profile is clean and sharp, and the higher-pitched nature of these switches produces a sharp and crisp sound.
In terms of feel, both the Anubis and Box White switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. They both offer reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Anubis switch is further described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This allows for a medium tactile experience that is satisfying to type on. While the specific feel of the Box White switch is not mentioned, we can assume that it shares similar qualities of being polished and offering a smooth typing experience.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that both the Durock Anubis and Kailh Box White switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis switch provides deep and resonant sound with a pronounced bump for an intense typing experience. Its accented feel offers a medium level of tactility. On the other hand, the Box White switch delivers a clean and sharp sound with a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch-like feedback. Although the specific feel of the Box White switch is not mentioned, we can expect a polished and smooth typing experience. Overall, both switches offer satisfying feedback and are suitable for various intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or using them at home or work.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with a pronounced bump, the Durock Anubis is a great choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams provides a medium actuation force requirement suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Anubis has a deep and resonant sound profile, offering a neutral sound experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. With its accented feel and polished finish, the Anubis delivers a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you desire maximum audio feedback and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, these switches produce a clean and sharp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The Box White also features a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Anubis and Kailh Box White depends on your preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you prioritize a sharp tactility and deep sound profile, the Anubis is the better choice. On the other hand, if you value maximum audio feedback and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box White is the switch for you. Consider your typing preferences and select the switch that best enhances your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
