Durock Anubis vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Anubis and the Durock Koala, both tactile switches. The Anubis is praised for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that brings intensity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Koala provides a more moderate tactility with a pronounced bump that doesn't overpower the entire keystroke, perfect for those who want a balance between feedback and smoothness. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Durock Koala differ in their housing materials, with the Anubis featuring a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Koala has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Anubis offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. The difference in top housing material between the two switches results in distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
On the other hand, both the Anubis and the Koala share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted sound compared to switches with different bottom housing materials. Despite having different top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile for both the Anubis and the Koala. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a familiar feel when using either switch, even if the top housing materials offer distinct sound qualities.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Durock Koala will ultimately come down to individual preferences for sound profiles. The Anubis's nylon top and bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound, while the Koala's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, with the differences in housing materials allowing users to tailor their keyboard to their preferred sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and more resonant sound, both the Anubis and the Koala offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of None grams. However, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making the Koala slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Anubis may be the more suitable option, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Koala for its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect consistent typing experiences when using either switch. Whether you choose the Anubis or the Koala, you can rest assured that the travel distance will be the same, providing a familiar feel and feedback while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 neutral profile, providing a moderate sound suitable for most users in various settings. In comparison, the Durock Koala tactile switch presents a low-pitched tone, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound experience. Both switches provide a satisfying sound profile, but the Anubis leans towards a more versatile option while the Koala offers a unique low-pitched sound that may appeal to specific preferences.
In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is characterized by an accented and polished design, providing a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming but still offers a prominent amount of tactility and a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch also features a polished finish along with a stepped and stiff design, offering a two-stage tactile feel with some pre-travel and post-travel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate. Both switches offer a refined and tactile typing experience, with the Anubis focusing more on a balanced tactility while the Koala delivers a more unique stepped feel that may suit certain preferences.
Overall, the Durock Anubis and Koala tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis provides a neutral sound with a medium tactile feel, while the Koala offers a low-pitched sound with a stepped and stiff tactile experience. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches provide satisfying options to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Anubis or the Koala, you can expect a high-quality switch that delivers on both sound and feel aspects for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a more intense and assertive typing experience, you may want to choose the Durock Anubis. The Anubis offers a sharp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile that can bring a new level of intensity to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a more moderate bump and a bit of resonance without being overly loud, the Durock Koala may be the better option for you. The Koala provides a stepped tactility and a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Anubis and the Koala comes down to your preference for the level of tactility and sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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