Durock Anubis vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the Durock Anubis and the Gateron CJ. The Durock Anubis stands out as a tactile switch, renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile. With a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback accompanied by a pronounced bump, these switches offer a sharp tactility that adds a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ belongs to the linear switch category and offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Known for its higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, the CJ switch provides a distinct sensation. While the Anubis offers a more pronounced tactile experience, the CJ switch provides a smoother and chirpy typing sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your 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
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Gateron CJ switches differ significantly. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the CJ switch incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This unique blend creates a satisfying thin and clacky sound. Thus, while both switches provide distinct sounds, the Anubis uses nylon to create a softer and fuller tone, while the CJ achieves a sharper and more vibrant sound with its INK blend top housing.
Moving to the bottom housings, the Anubis and CJ switches differ once again. The Anubis employs a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This nylon material complements the switch's sound profile, generating a deeper and fuller tone. Conversely, the CJ switch features a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, which offers its own distinct sound characteristics. The POM housing creates a pleasing and unique sound profile with a deeper tone and relatively more muted characteristics. Therefore, while the nylon bottom housing of the Anubis contributes to its overall sound profile, the POM bottom housing of the CJ adds a different depth and muting effect to its sound.
Considering the top and bottom housing materials of the Anubis and CJ switches individually, it is clear that they have different effects on the switches' sound profiles and tactile experiences. The bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel experienced when pressing a key. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound produced when letting go of the key. While the Anubis utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and fuller sound, the CJ switch combines a unique INK blend top housing with a POM bottom housing. This combination creates a distinctive clacky sound when pressing the key, followed by a deeper and muted sound upon release. Therefore, while the housing materials of these switches differ, they both offer their own unique and satisfying sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Durock Anubis has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the CJ requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Anubis. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Anubis requires 65 grams of force, whereas the CJ requires 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of bottom out force.
Considering the importance of weight when it comes to typing or gaming, individuals may have different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Gateron CJ more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate. This can help reduce fatigue and strain on the fingers. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Durock Anubis, as it has a higher actuation force. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback while typing.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches are relatively similar, with the Anubis being slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the CJ's 60 grams. This means that the typing experience when bottoming out will be quite similar between the two switches.
Overall, for those who prioritize a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, the Gateron CJ with its lower actuation force may be the preferred choice. Alternatively, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may find the Durock Anubis with its higher actuation force more satisfying.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in the typing experience, as it determines the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. In the case of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Pressing down on a key of either switch will result in a similar sensation and feedback, with the switch traveling the same distance. Therefore, users can expect comparable typing experiences with either switch in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 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
The Durock Anubis tactile switch is well-known for its deep and resonant sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. The bump on the Anubis is more pronounced than most other tactile switches, providing a sharp tactility that adds a new level of intensity to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be. When typing on CJ switches, you will hear higher-pitched clacks and experience an impossibly smooth push feel.
Comparing the sound qualities of the two switches, the Anubis is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the CJ switch is described as chirpy, indicating a little squeak in their acoustic signature that sets them apart. It also falls within the neutral category, offers low-pitched sounds with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, and can produce a deep and satisfying thocky sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Anubis is described as an accented switch. This means that it provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience, thanks to the materials used or factory lubing. On the other hand, the CJ switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound with a pronounced tactile bump and accented, polished feel. On the other hand, the CJ switch offers higher-pitched clacks, a smooth push feel, and a mild typing experience. Based on this information, those looking for a tactile switch with a deeper sound and stronger tactile feedback might prefer the Anubis, while those seeking a unique and enjoyable linear switch with a higher-pitched sound and smooth feel may lean towards the CJ. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of the switches are also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a satisfying and assertive feedback, the Durock Anubis is a great choice. With its pronounced bump and deep sound profile, it brings a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and enjoyable linear switch, the Gateron CJ offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and a chirpy sound profile that sets it apart from other switches.
In terms of sound, the Anubis is more neutral, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The CJ, on the other hand, has a chirpy sound that adds a touch of uniqueness to your typing experience. It also offers a neutral option and even a low-pitched option for a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis provides an accented and polished experience. It offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, and its smooth and refined finish ensures a sleek typing experience. The CJ, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch depends on your preferences. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and deep sound, go for the Anubis. If you prefer a unique and smooth linear switch with a chirpy sound profile, the CJ is a great option. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision that suits your typing style and preferences.
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