Durock Anubis vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, to the HMX EMO, a linear switch, it's important to consider the unique characteristics of each. The Anubis is renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that adds intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the EMO offers a lively and clacky feel with a light 46g bottom-out force, delivering a smooth and satisfying typing experience. While the Anubis may appeal to those who prefer a sharp tactility, the EMO is ideal for individuals who enjoy a bouncy and effortless typing sensation. 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
40g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the HMX EMO, it is evident that the Anubis utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the EMO features polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Therefore, the Anubis is likely to offer a more muted and softer typing experience compared to the EMO, which provides a clearer and more resonant sound.
While both the Anubis and the EMO feature nylon in their bottom housing, they differ in the material used for the top housing. This contrast in materials affects the overall sound profile of the switches. The Anubis's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on a key, while the EMO's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key. This difference demonstrates how the choice of housing material can impact the typing experience and sound feedback of mechanical keyboards.
If one is looking to achieve a similar typing experience to the Durock Anubis while using the HMX EMO, they may need to consider how the split between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials influences the sound profile. While the Anubis offers a softer and more rounded sound with its nylon top and bottom housing, the EMO's combination of polycarbonate and nylon provides a mix of sharper and crisper tones. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, the actuation force of the Anubis is None grams, while the EMO requires 40 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Anubis has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the EMO's 46 grams. The Anubis provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom out force, while the EMO offers a lighter touch with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the EMO may be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel, the Anubis would be the better option. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces should be considered based on individual preferences and typing habits for optimal typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Anubis offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO, but both fall within the range of traditional travel distances for switches. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the EMO for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Anubis. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is known for its deep and resonant profile, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. The pronounced bump of the Anubis creates a sharp tactility that adds intensity to the typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively and clacky feel, with a light 46g bottom-out force. The EMO switch provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience, making it satisfying for users who enjoy a responsive switch. However, without specific information on the sound profile of the EMO, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Anubis switch is described as accented and polished, providing a medium level of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. The polished finish of the Anubis creates a smooth typing experience with reduced friction, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch does not have specific descriptors provided, making it challenging to directly compare the tactile feel of the two switches.
Overall, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is best suited for those who prefer a pronounced tactile bump and a deep, resonant sound profile. The accented and polished feel of the Anubis makes it a popular choice for users seeking a balance between tactility and smoothness. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch is ideal for those who enjoy a lively and clacky typing experience with a light bottom-out force. While the specific details of the sound and feel of the EMO switch are unknown, both switches are likely to provide a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user. Ultimately, choosing between the Durock Anubis and HMX EMO switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Durock Anubis tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a lively, clacky feel with a smooth typing experience, then the HMX EMO linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility and typing experience.
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