Durock Anubis vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Anubis is a tactile switch that is characterized by its deep and resonant sound profile, along with a pronounced bump that provides a sharp tactility with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs that offer a balanced typing experience. While the Anubis is perfect for those who enjoy a more intense tactile feedback, the Cloudy Shadow provides a smoother and more consistent 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
N/A
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow lies in the top housing material used. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Anubis gives off a duller and rounder sound, the Cloudy Shadow offers a more clear and resonant sound experience, especially beneficial for users looking to utilize RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow use nylon, which again provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material means that regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing's softer properties absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Anubis offers a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon top housing, while the Cloudy Shadow provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches, however, ensure a consistent typing experience with their shared nylon bottom housing, maintaining a deep and full sound profile regardless of which option is chosen. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer unique qualities to cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, we see that both switches have an actuation force of None grams. However, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Cloudy Shadow, which has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Anubis provides a stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier force. 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 Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Anubis has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, especially for gaming purposes. Both switches offer a different feel based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloudy Shadow for $3.91.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Anubis tactile switch offers a deep and resonant profile, creating a satisfying and assertive typing experience with its pronounced bump. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound signature, providing a more mellow and balanced typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a more intense tactile sound or a smoother linear sound.
In terms of feel, the Anubis switch is described as accented and polished, offering a medium tactile feel with a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience with qualities that fall into a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a more pronounced tactility or a softer typing feel.
Considering the information provided, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a more intense tactile feedback and deep sound profile, the Anubis may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a more balanced sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and innovation in the mechanical keyboard market, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your preference.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, consider your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you enjoy a sharp and assertive tactility with a deep sound profile, the Anubis may be the more suitable option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style and preference for tactile feel and sound.
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