Durock Anubis vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cheese offer two distinct typing experiences. The Anubis is a tactile switch that is designed with a deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Cheese is a linear switch that provides an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, boasting a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. While the Anubis is best suited for those who prefer a sharp tactility and intense keystrokes, the Cheese is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cheese are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. This means that both the Anubis and Cheese switches offer a similar typing experience with regards to sound quality, as the nylon housing in both switches contributes to the overall sound profile.
In terms of the top housing, both the Anubis and Cheese switches have nylon top housings that impact the sound when pressing down on the switch. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound and creates a deeper tone, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. This similarity in top housing material means that users can expect a similar sound profile when using either switch, as the nylon top housing plays a significant role in the overall sound output of the switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the qualities of the housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that although both the Anubis and Cheese switches have nylon bottom housings, the overall typing experience and sound profile may vary slightly depending on the design and construction of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is the lighter of the two. The Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Cheese has a bottom out force of 46 grams, which is considered light. The actuation force of the Anubis is not specified, while the Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cheese switch, as it requires less force to bottom out and actuate. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Anubis switch due to its higher bottom out force. In both cases, users can expect differing tactile and auditory feedback based on the force required for actuation and bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it is evident that the Anubis has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Cheese has a shorter distance of 3.5 mm. The Anubis provides a slightly deeper feel when pressed, which may be preferred by some who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Cheese offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Anubis offering a bit more depth and the Cheese providing a faster keypress experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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, thanks to its pronounced bump that brings a heightened level of intensity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch provides a unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, offering an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience that is lighter than the majority of switches on the market.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Anubis switch is characterized as accented and polished, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming and offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Meanwhile, details about the feel of the HMX Cheese switch are not available, so it is recommended to test them for yourself to determine whether they align with your preferences.
Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Durock Anubis switch excels in providing a deep sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, while the HMX Cheese switch stands out for its smoothness and unique sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience. Testing both switches on your preferred keyboard and keycaps can help you determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a pronounced tactile bump with a deep and resonant sound profile, then the Anubis might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams and value ultra-smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound signature, then the Cheese linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. Choose the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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