Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Ink Box Black. The Anubis is a tactile switch known for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. With a pronounced bump, it brings a new level of intensity to typing. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is a linear switch that stands out for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Its sound signature is often compared to the shaking of a spray paint can. While these general characteristics may help you in making an initial decision, let's dive a bit deeper beyond the generalities to help you better determine the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Anubis Tactile

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.00 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Anubis and the Gateron Ink Box Black have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Ink Box Black has a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom.

The nylon top housing of the Anubis provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. While not overly sharp, it creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Anubis and the Ink Box Black have nylon and INK blend respectively. However, the impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Anubis contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. Meanwhile, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black adds to the pointed and high-pitched sound that is characteristic of the switch.

Although the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ, they both contribute to creating distinctive sound profiles. While the Anubis provides a duller and rounder sound with its nylon housing, the Ink Box Black produces a clacky and higher-pitched sound with its proprietary INK blend. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique sound profiles based on the properties of their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Anubis is unavailable, while the Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Ink Box Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that the Ink Box Black provides a slightly heavier typing feel when pressing all the way down.

In terms of weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing periods, especially for work or extended gaming sessions. In this regard, the lower actuation force of the Ink Box Black may be more desirable. However, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, and this is where the heavier bottom out force of the Anubis may be favored.

Overall, while the weight may be a deciding factor for some, it is noteworthy that both switches have medium to medium-heavy force profiles. Therefore, if someone is seeking similar typing results, they could expect comparable outcomes from both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is clear that the Anubis has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Ink Box Black's 3.6 mm. This makes the Anubis more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. For individuals seeking a more responsive typing experience, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black would be ideal. However, it is important to note that both options offer a reasonable travel distance, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of overall key press sensation and feedback.

Price comparison

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. The bump on these switches is more pronounced than most other tactile switches, providing a sharp tactility that intensifies every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a sound reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. It is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, the Ink Box Black has a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp sound profile. 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.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Anubis provides an accented tactile experience. It falls under the category of a "medium tactile" switch, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Anubis switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. The use of high-quality materials or factory lubing reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel.

Similarly, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch offers a silky typing experience. These switches prioritize smoothness and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Just like the Anubis, the Ink Box Black is also described as polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, while the Durock Anubis tactile switch provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a sharp tactility, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a clacky sound with a high-pitched crispness. In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished and smooth typing experience, with the Anubis providing an accented tactile feedback, while the Ink Box Black offers a silky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, one can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis and Gateron Ink Box Black would depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a deep and resonant sound profile and a pronounced tactile bump, the Durock Anubis is an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, this switch offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. The Anubis is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments.

On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy switch with a unique clacky and high-pitched sound signature, the Gateron Ink Box Black is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, this linear switch provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Ink Box Black is also described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a pronounced tactile bump and a deep sound profile, the Anubis is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and creamy switch with a unique clacky sound, the Ink Box Black is a great option. Consider your personal typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Anubis Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more