Durock Anubis vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, and the Durock Ice King Linear, a linear switch. The Anubis is designed to provide a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with a pronounced bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a sharp tactility that adds intensity to their typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear offers a smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and factory lube, giving it a silky and frictionless feel. While the Anubis is categorized as 'Accented', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Ice King Linear is characterized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Anubis and the Durock Ice King Linear utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Anubis or the Ice King Linear switches.
However, where the two switches may differ is in the distribution of the housing material between the top and bottom of the switches. The qualities of the nylon housing material in the Anubis and Ice King Linear switches may be split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes more to the sound when a key is released. This difference in distribution may result in slight variations in typing experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Anubis and the Durock Ice King Linear switches feature nylon housing materials that deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile, the distribution of this material between the top and bottom housings may lead to nuanced differences in typing experience. Despite this, users can generally expect a similar quality of sound and feel when using either switch, thanks to the absorbing properties of nylon that create a rounder and duller sound overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, it is evident that the Anubis requires no specific actuation force while the Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams. On the other hand, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is heavier than the Ice King Linear's bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, with the Anubis offering a slightly heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, the Ice King Linear may be the better option, while those seeking a stronger push feel may lean towards the Anubis. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ice King Linear has a shorter travel distance compared to the Anubis. A 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how a switch feels when you press down on it. The Anubis with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and comfortable typing experience for some users, while the Ice King Linear with its shorter travel distance could be preferred by those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. The Anubis has a more pronounced bump compared to other tactile switches, giving it a unique intensity that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch produces a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is described as accented and polished, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky, frictionless, and creamy feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. With lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used, the Ice King Linear switch offers a sensation of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke.
Overall, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a deep and resonant sound profile accompanied by a pronounced tactile bump, the Anubis would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a more subtle sound signature, the Ice King Linear switch would be more to your liking. Both switches provide a unique typing experience depending on the user's preference, ensuring a satisfying and customized feel for every keystroke.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp tactility with a pronounced bump, the Anubis tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with subdued sound, the Ice King Linear linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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