Durock Anubis vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g present intriguing options for users with different preferences. The Anubis stands out for its tactile feedback that is both satisfying and assertive, thanks to a pronounced bump that offers a sharp tactility and intense keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g is known for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, catering to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience with a heavier touch. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may appeal to different users depending on their preferences. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Both the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g utilize nylon as the material for both the top and bottom switch housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing. The similarity in housing material suggests that both switches will likely provide a similar sound experience, with a focus on a deeper and more muted sound compared to switches with harder housing materials.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing material, there may be subtle differences in sound and feel between the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g due to potential variations in the specific composition or design of the housings. While both switches will likely offer a similar deep and full sound profile during typing, the top and bottom housing materials may impact the overall sound in slightly different ways. The bottom housing is said to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing may play a larger role in the sound when a key is released.
Overall, the choice of nylon as a housing material for both the Durock Anubis and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches suggests a preference for a sound profile that is deeper and rounder compared to switches with harder housing materials. Typing on switches with nylon housing is likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with a fuller sound. While there may be subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches, the shared use of nylon housing material indicates that users can expect a similar overall typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, we can see that the Anubis has an actuation force of None grams, while the Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams. On the other hand, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, slightly heavier than the Cloud - 63.5g with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Anubis is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. The Anubis provides a medium-heavy typing experience, whereas the Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly lighter typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Anubis being ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Cloud - 63.5g is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice 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 HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances but offer slightly different experiences. The Anubis provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press, while the Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly quicker response time with its shorter travel distance. Gamers may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g for its faster response, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may prefer the Anubis. Ultimately, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced bump with every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that caters to enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience. Depending on your preference, the Anubis provides a neutral sound suitable for various intents and purposes, while the Cloud - 63.5g offers a sharp and crisp sound for a more percussive typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch provides an accented and polished typing experience, offering a medium level of tactility without any scratchiness. The smooth and refined finish of the switch ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch delivers a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, giving keys a spring-like feedback and a buttery smooth feel. Depending on your preference, the Anubis offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, while the Cloud - 63.5g provides a lively and smooth typing experience akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
Overall, both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a deep and resonant sound with pronounced tactility, the Anubis would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, the Cloud - 63.5g would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences, ensuring that you'll achieve similar results in sound and feel based on your individual tastes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, consider your preferences for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a sharp tactile feedback with a pronounced bump and a deep sound profile, the Anubis may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound with a silky smooth feel and a heavier actuation force, the Cloud - 63.5g could be the switch that suits your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual typing preferences and what experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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