Durock Anubis vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, and the Durock Daybreak, a linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Anubis is favored for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that adds intensity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Daybreak provides a heftier typing experience with its 67g actuation force, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more substantial touch while maintaining quiet operation. The Anubis falls under the categories of 'Accented', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', while the Daybreak is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched'. 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
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and Durock Daybreak both feature nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak utilizes polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Therefore, while both switches provide unique sound profiles, the type of plastic used in the top housing significantly influences the overall sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Durock Anubis and Durock Daybreak feature nylon material, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a uniform sound experience when typing. However, differences may still arise in the overall sound profile due to the contrasting top housing materials used in each switch.
Overall, the Durock Anubis and Durock Daybreak demonstrate how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the sound profile of a switch. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with deeper and fuller sound, the use of different materials for the top housing distinguishes the two switches. The Anubis's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Daybreak's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the top and bottom housing materials work together to create a unique sound profile for each switch, highlighting the importance of housing material selection in keyboard switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch differ slightly in terms of bottom out force. The Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, both falling under the category of medium-heavy. The actuation force for both switches is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Anubis may be the better choice due to its slightly lower bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Daybreak with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the differences in weight between these two switches may result in a minor variation in typing experience, but overall, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Anubis is slightly longer than the Daybreak. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can be noticeable for those who are sensitive to such details. The Anubis offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Daybreak. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the more common choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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. Its pronounced bump provides a sharp tactility that adds intensity to each keystroke, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, making it quieter and more suitable for environments where noise must be kept to a minimum. The Daybreak's heavier actuation force adds a weightier touch to typing, appealing to those who prefer a more significant keypress.
When it comes to feel, both the Anubis and Daybreak switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Anubis offers an accented tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable, striking a balance between tactility and comfort. Similarly, the Daybreak's polished feel enhances the typing experience by ensuring a sleek and effortless key press without any roughness or resistance.
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing needs. The Anubis excels in providing a deep and resonant sound with a pronounced tactile feedback, while the Daybreak offers a quieter and weightier typing experience. Both switches feature a polished feel for smooth and refined keypresses, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the chosen switch. Ultimately, choosing between the Anubis and Daybreak switches comes down to personal preference in sound, tactility, and typing experience. Both switches promise quality performance and satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider your typing preference and environment. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper, more resonant sound profile, the Anubis would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force with a quieter operation, the Daybreak may be more suitable, especially if you need to maintain a quieter workspace. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and environments, so choose based on what aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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