Durock Anubis vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Firefly mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to specific preferences. The Anubis stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp tactility that elevates every keystroke. On the other hand, the Firefly offers a quiet and light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, making it easy to press and providing a different typing experience. While the Anubis is perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Firefly is ideal for individuals who prefer a quieter 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Firefly, it can be seen that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, which absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. This means that despite other differences, both the Anubis and Firefly will likely offer similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel when it comes to their bottom housing material.
However, when it comes to the top housing of these switches, the materials diverge. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, mirroring the qualities of its bottom housing. On the other hand, the Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in materials will result in a noticeable difference in sound and feel when typing on the two switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly will likely provide a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Anubis's duller and rounder sound emitted from its nylon top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Firefly will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing material - nylon for the Anubis and polycarbonate for the Firefly - will create distinct typing experiences. The Anubis will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Firefly will provide a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, users will need to consider which sound profile they prefer when deciding between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Anubis has an actuation force of None grams, making it light to press, while the Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, providing a slightly heavier actuation feel. On the other hand, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown. This makes the Anubis heavier to press all the way down compared to the Firefly. If one prefers a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Firefly may be the better choice. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Anubis would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Firefly tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it is evident that users can expect similar results in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent typing experience between the two, as the distance traveled by the switch will be identical. Overall, the travel distance of both the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Firefly tactile switches is 4 mm, providing users with a similar tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 satisfyingly assertive tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced bump with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch provides a very light actuation with a hint of clickiness, but without the classic resonant clicky sound signature, making it a quieter option with a unique acoustic signature. Your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more intense and pronounced sound experience or a quieter, more subtle one.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is known for its prominent tactile feedback without being overwhelming, providing a medium level of tactility that is both satisfying and smooth. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Your preference will depend on whether you prioritize a medium amount of tactility with a polished finish or a light, easy-to-press typing experience.
Considering all the available information, both the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Firefly tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound with a pronounced tactile bump and smooth key travel, the Firefly offers a quieter, lighter actuation with an easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound intensity and typing feel, as both switches excel in different aspects and will provide a satisfying typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, you should consider the preferences in sound and feel that best suit your typing style. If you prefer a switch with a deep and resonant sound profile, a pronounced tactile bump, and a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Anubis switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a light actuation force, a hint of clickiness, and a unique chirpy sound profile, then the Firefly switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a more intense and assertive tactile feedback with the Anubis, or a quiet and easy-to-press typing experience with the Firefly.
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