Durock Anubis vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Anubis and the Bsun Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, the decision may ultimately come down to your preference for tactile versus linear switches. The Durock Anubis is a tactile switch that is praised for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that brings intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red is a linear switch that provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not overly loud. The all-POM housing and smooth actuation make it a preferred choice for those who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Bsun Kiki Red switches both contribute to creating a unique sound profile. While the Anubis features a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deep and fuller sound profile due to its soft plastic that absorbs more sound, the Kiki Red utilizes a POM top and bottom housing that creates a pleasing and unique sound which is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer a sound experience that is distinct and enjoyable to users.
In terms of sound, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Durock Anubis and the POM top and bottom housing of the Bsun Kiki Red provide contrasting characteristics. The Anubis's nylon housing elicits a duller and rounder sound profile, whereas the Kiki Red's POM housing results in a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can impact the overall typing experience for users, giving them the option to choose between a softer, more absorbent sound with the Anubis or a deeper, more distinct sound with the Kiki Red.
However, despite their differences, the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Bsun Kiki Red ultimately serve the same purpose of enhancing the sound experience of mechanical keyboard switches. Both nylon and POM are materials that are known for their ability to create unique and pleasing sound profiles, albeit with slightly different characteristics. Whether users prefer a deeper and fuller sound or a more muted and pleasing sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Anubis and the Kiki Red will come down to the specific sound profile and feel that users desire in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that they have different weight profiles. The Anubis has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter overall. The Anubis provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Kiki Red offers a lighter and smoother keystroke with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Kiki Red may be the preferred choice, while those looking for a more solid and tactile feel may lean towards the Anubis. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is clear that the Anubis has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Kiki Red's 3.6 mm. The Anubis offers a slightly deeper press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's shorter travel distance may be favored by individuals looking for a quicker response time. Both options cater to different preferences, with the Anubis providing a deeper press and the Kiki Red offering a quicker response. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 that provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch produces a high-pitched, clacky sound that strikes a balance between comfort and nuance. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences, with the Anubis being more pronounced and intense, while the Kiki Red is more subtle and refined.
In terms of feel, the Anubis switch provides an accented tactile experience with a polished finish, offering a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. The Kiki Red switch, on the other hand, delivers a creamy and frictionless typing experience with a silky smooth sensation. It also boasts a snappy and easy-to-press feel, making it responsive and effortless to use. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, but the Anubis focuses more on tactility while the Kiki Red emphasizes fluidity and ease of typing.
Overall, the Durock Anubis and Bsun Kiki Red switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Anubis is best suited for those who enjoy a sharp tactile feedback with a deep sound profile, while the Kiki Red is perfect for users who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches provide solid options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for different tactile and auditory experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize intense tactility or subtle smoothness in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced bump for intense tactile feedback, the Durock Anubis would be the ideal choice for you. The deep and resonant sound profile adds to the satisfying typing experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more assertive feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a finely-tuned typing experience with a balance of high-pitched clackiness, then the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch would be more suitable for you. The smooth actuation and unique sound signature of the Kiki Reds make them a preferred choice for enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. Ultimately, your preference for bump intensity and sound profile will determine which of these switches align better with your typing style and preferences.
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