Durock Anubis vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are often compared are the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Carrot, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. While each switch offers a unique typing experience, they have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Anubis is known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. Its pronounced bump adds a sharp tactility, resulting in a heightened intensity during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Carrot switch offers a fun and bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Along with its mid-pitched and firm sound profile, this switch delivers a uniquely satisfying typing sensation. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your personal preferences.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Aflion Carrot utilize different housing materials for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct differences in sound profile and feel. The Anubis features a nylon top and bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The absorbent nature of nylon allows for a duller and rounder sound experience. On the contrary, the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. This creates a more clear and resonant typing experience, especially when coupled with RGB lighting effects.
Interestingly, both switches share a commonality with their nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both the Anubis and the Carrot. Nylon's inherent softness absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more subdued and rounded sound when typing on these switches.
When it comes to the impact of top and bottom housings on the overall switch experience, there is a clear distinction. The bottom housing has a more noticeable effect on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing in both the Anubis and the Carrot are crucial in determining the tactile feedback and sound when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. So, the choice between the nylon top of the Anubis and the polycarbonate top of the Carrot will ultimately dictate the sound profile when letting go of a key, with the Anubis offering a softer sound and the Carrot delivering a sharper and crisper sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Carrot tactile switches, there are significant differences to consider. The Anubis has an actuation force that is unavailable in grams, which means it is unknown at this time. However, its bottom out force is 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that it is a lighter switch compared to the Anubis.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it affects the typing experience and comfort during prolonged use. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making them ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel.
While the actuation force of the Anubis is unavailable, it can be assumed that it would have a significant difference compared to the Carrot, given the variation in their bottom out forces. The Anubis being medium-heavy suggests a higher actuation force, while the Carrot being light implies a lighter actuation force. Therefore, if one desires a lighter typing experience, the Carrot would be the suitable option, while those in search of a heavier, more substantial feel may find the Anubis more to their liking.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a tactile switch. In the case of the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Carrot tactile switches, they both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users can expect to feel a consistent 4 mm of movement. This ensures a satisfying sensory feedback and allows for accurate typing or gaming experiences. Therefore, whether you choose the Durock Anubis or the Aflion Carrot, you can be confident in obtaining similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Carrot has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Carrot for $3.57.
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 is known for its deep and resonant sound profile. It offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke, and the bump is more pronounced than most other tactile switches. This creates a sharp tactility that brings a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is described as having a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It offers a unique bouncy tactile experience with its long two-stage spring. While the specific sound qualities of the Carrot switch are not mentioned, it is likely to produce a clacky sound due to its crisp and bright nature. Overall, the Anubis switch provides a deep and resonant sound, while the Carrot switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is described as accented, which means it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is not scratchy and offers a medium level of tactile feedback. Additionally, the Anubis switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish and a sleek typing experience. The Aflion Carrot tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. It offers rebound when pressed, giving it a lively feel. The Carrot switch is also snappy, making it super responsive and more alive. It is important to note that the specific feel qualities of the Carrot switch are not mentioned, so it is uncertain if it has any subtle or stepped characteristics. Overall, the Anubis switch provides an accented and polished feel, while the Carrot switch offers a bouncy and snappy tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile, sharp tactility, accented feel, and polished finish. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile, unique bouncy tactile experience, and potential for a clacky sound. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Carrot switch are not fully described, it can be inferred that it offers a different tactile experience compared to the Anubis switch. Both switches provide satisfying tactile feedback, but the Anubis switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper sound and a more pronounced bump, while the Carrot switch may appeal to those looking for a bouncier and potentially clackier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you value a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Anubis would be an excellent choice for you. Its pronounced tactile bump adds intensity to each keystroke, perfect for those who prefer a sharp tactility. Additionally, the Anubis offers an accented feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bouncy and unique tactile experience, the Carrot switch is worth considering. With a light bottom out force and a mid-pitched, firm sound profile, the Carrot switch delivers a fun and lively typing experience. Its bouncy feel and snappy response make each keystroke feel more alive, especially with its long, two-stage spring.
Consider the sound profile and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns better with your preferences. The Anubis offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and purposes. In contrast, the Carrot switch provides a clacky, marbly, or high-pitched sound, perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and percussive typing experience. Similarly, the Anubis offers an accented and polished feel, whereas the Carrot switch provides a bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, or subtle feel.
Ultimately, choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch depends on what you prioritize in a switch. Consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel to make an informed decision. Whether you desire a medium-heavy switch with intense tactility or a lighter switch with a bouncy and lively feel, both switches have unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
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