Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, a linear switch. The Anubis is highly regarded for its deep and resonant sound profile, delivering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. Its pronounced bump adds an intense sharp tactility that enthusiasts of tactile switches often appreciate. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink offers a different typing experience with a lighter feel and smoother operation compared to other switches. Its translucent design adds a touch of elegance, and some users enjoy the higher-pitched clack they produce. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Anubis Tactile

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.00 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Anubis and the Gateron Ink Box Pink have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. The INK blend creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile when typing.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Anubis and the Ink Box Pink use nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the nylon top housing. The relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out the keys on both switches. However, while the material is the same, the sound profiles may differ slightly due to other factors such as the shape or design of the housing.

It's important to note that the sound profile of a switch is influenced by both the top and bottom housing materials. When actuating the switches, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the Anubis and the Ink Box Pink have different housing materials, the overall typing experience and resulting sound profile may be similar in terms of the bottom-out sound, while the release sound may vary due to the contrasting properties of nylon and the INK blend.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation forces. The Anubis has an unavailable gram actuation force, whereas the Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. While the specific force for the Anubis is unknown, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink has a lighter actuation force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range.

Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Pink with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter feel allows for more extended typing sessions, which is beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and stronger push feel during typing may find the Anubis more suitable. With its higher bottom out force, the Anubis provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience.

In summary, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a lighter and more ergonomic typing experience. However, due to the unavailability of the Anubis's specific actuation force, achieving similar results in terms of actuation force may be possible with both switches. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience one is looking for.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, we can observe some differences. The Anubis has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Ink Box Pink has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. With a 0.4 mm difference, the Ink Box Pink can be seen as the shorter option. However, it is important to note that both distances fall within the range of what is commonly used. Gamers, for instance, might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink for faster response times. This is because shorter travel distances can provide quicker key presses. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and prefer the 4 mm travel distance of the Anubis for a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Anubis tactile switch offers a deep and resonant profile that provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. The bump on the Anubis is more pronounced compared to most other tactile switches, which translates to a sharper tactile feel and a new level of intensity with every press. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch produces a higher-pitched clack when pressed. This clacky sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a unique auditory experience. While both switches have distinct sound profiles, it's important to note that the sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Durock Anubis switch is described as an accented and polished switch. It falls into the category of a medium tactile switch that offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Anubis provides a refined and smooth typing experience, thanks to its polished finish, reduced friction, and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is characterized as a silky and polished switch. This means that the switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similar to the Anubis, the Ink Box Pink also provides reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound profile, along with a sharp tactility that adds intensity to each keystroke. The switch offers a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switch produces a higher-pitched clack sound when pressed, which adds a unique auditory aspect. It offers a lighter typing feel and an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Both switches have their own merits and can deliver satisfying results depending on personal preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced and sharp tactility, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, this switch offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback that brings a new level of intensity to every keystroke. Additionally, the Anubis has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes whether you're a beginner or advanced user. In terms of feel, the Anubis features accented tactility and a polished finish, resulting in a switch that is not overwhelming but still provides a prominent amount of tactility and a sleek typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer a lighter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. The Ink Box Pink switches are known for their silky smoothness, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They also have a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Similar to the Anubis, the Ink Box Pink switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch will depend on your personal preference for tactility and typing feel. Consider whether you prefer a more intense and pronounced tactility or a smoother and lighter typing experience, as well as the sound profile you find most appealing. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so take your time to explore and find the one that suits your individual needs.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Anubis Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more