Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Ink Black V2. The Anubis is a tactile switch, lauded for its deep and resonant sound profile that provides users with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. With a more pronounced bump compared to other tactile switches, it offers a sharp tactility that adds a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has stood the test of time and remains a community favorite. It delivers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, giving typists an enjoyable and consistent typing experience. While these general descriptions provide a starting point for considering these switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and find the best switch for your individual needs.

By the numbers

Durock Anubis Tactile

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$8.00 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Ink Black V2 have distinct differences in terms of sound profiles. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. This suggests that the Anubis will provide a more mellow typing experience, while the Ink Black V2 will offer a sharper and crisper sound when typing.

Additionally, the bottom housings of these switches also differ in terms of sound characteristics. The Anubis employs a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to its deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the Ink Black V2 utilizes Gateron's INK blend bottom housing, which is known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the Ink Black V2 will be more pronounced and have a sharper quality compared to the Anubis.

It's important to note that while the top and bottom housings of these switches have different materials, they play distinct roles in the overall sound of the switch. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Anubis and Ink Black V2 have varying housing materials for both the top and bottom, users can expect similar results in terms of the typing experience. Both switches offer innovative housings that contribute to their unique sound profiles, providing users with a choice between a mellower and fuller sound (Anubis) or a crisper and clackier sound (Ink Black V2).

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Anubis has an unspecified weight requirement to trigger a keystroke, while the Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force. Despite the lack of specific information for the Anubis, it is safe to assume that the Ink Black V2 has a lighter actuation force compared to the Anubis, as 60 grams is generally considered a lightweight requirement.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Anubis requires 65 grams of force to fully depress the switch, which falls within the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 has a slightly higher bottom-out force of 70 grams, also categorized as medium-heavy. Therefore, in terms of bottoming out, both switches offer a similar experience with a slightly heavier force requirement, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to lighter switches.

In terms of weight considerations, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2, as it has a lighter actuation force. This can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming periods where fatigue may set in. Conversely, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Anubis with its unspecified actuation force may be a suitable choice.

Overall, both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch fall within the medium-heavy range for bottom out force. However, the Ink Black V2 offers a lighter actuation force compared to the Anubis, providing a potentially smoother and faster keystroke activation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on an individual's preference for either a lighter actuation force or a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Anubis is best described as having a deep and resonant sound profile. With a more pronounced bump than most other tactile switches, it offers a sharp tactility that adds intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound. This switch offers a more mellow tone with a richer sound profile during key presses. It also has a unique chirpy quality that sets it apart from other switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis is described as an accented switch. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This makes it a medium tactile switch that offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. Additionally, the Anubis is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as a mild switch, offering a more gentle typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Similar to the Anubis, the Ink Black V2 is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Considering all the available information, the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Ink Black V2 offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a sharp tactility that adds intensity to every keystroke. It offers a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, paired with a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, with a milder typing experience that is approachable to most users. It also provides a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. While they have their unique characteristics, it is important to consider personal preferences and the overall setup, including the keyboard board and keycaps, to ensure a satisfying and customized typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a sharp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Durock Anubis would be a great option for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. The Anubis is designed to bring a new level of intensity and is suitable for beginners or advanced users, whether you are using it at home or work.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is the switch for you. It has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls within the medium-heavy range. The Ink Black V2 is a community favorite known for its classic linear feel.

When it comes to sound, the Anubis has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone during key presses. It also has a chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches.

In terms of feel, the Anubis is accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Its polished finish results in a smooth and refined typing experience. Similarly, the Ink Black V2 also has a polished finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. It provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.

Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch depends on your preference for either a sharp tactile feedback with a deep sound profile or a smooth linear feel with a rich clack sound. Consider the aspects of sound and feel described above to make an informed decision that suits your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Anubis Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more