Durock Anubis vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, to the Zuoce Bubblegum, a linear switch, it is clear that each has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Anubis is known for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a sharp tactility that intensifies every keystroke. On the other hand, the Bubblegum from Gold Grain boasts an eye-catching design and delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. If you are someone who values a pronounced bump and assertive tactile feedback, the Anubis may be the switch for you. However, if you enjoy a more bouncy and clacky typing experience with a visually striking switch, the Bubblegum might be the better choice. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM+SL
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
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 housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches both have unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Anubis's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Bubblegum's POM top housing provides a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both materials contribute to a deep sound profile, they offer slightly different tonal qualities.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Anubis and Bubblegum switches utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the bottom housings of both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This consistency in bottom housing material may lead to a more uniform typing experience across the two switches.
In terms of overall typing experience, the differing top housing materials between the Anubis and Bubblegum switches may result in subtle variations in sound and feel when typing. The Anubis's nylon top housing may offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Bubblegum's POM top housing may provide a more muted and unique sound. These differences in top housing materials can influence the sound when pressing down and letting go of a key. Ultimately, the combination of nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile, with any variations in sound and feel primarily attributed to the top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, it is evident that the Anubis has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Bubblegum's 45 grams, making the Anubis a heavier option. However, the actuation force of the Bubblegum at 37 grams is significantly lower than the Anubis, which has a non-specified actuation force. The difference in actuation force may indicate that the Bubblegum provides a lighter and easier typing experience compared to the Anubis, which may require more force to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Bubblegum may be the preferred choice, while the Anubis may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Anubis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bubblegum. For those who prefer switches with a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the Anubis may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Bubblegum may be more suitable for gamers or individuals looking for a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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 satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch provides a clacky typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound. While the Anubis is more neutral in its sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments, the Bubblegum switch has a more distinctive and percussive sound that may appeal to those seeking a unique auditory experience. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis switch is described as accented and polished, offering a medium level of tactile feedback that is neither overpowering nor subtle. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Bubblegum switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively rebound when pressed. This bouncy feel offers a different tactile experience compared to the Anubis, catering to users who prefer a more dynamic key response.
Overall, both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. If you enjoy a deep and resonant sound profile with pronounced tactile feedback, the Anubis may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky typing experience with bouncy and spring-like key response, the Bubblegum switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, a pronounced tactile bump, and a deep sound profile, then the Anubis may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky typing experience, and a bouncy feel, then the Bubblegum switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what best fits your typing preferences and needs.