Durock Anubis vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Anubis and the KTT Lightning. The Anubis stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. With a more pronounced bump compared to other tactile switches, it provides a sharp tactility that brings a new level of intensity to typing. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are known for their "speed" capabilities, making them ideal for situations where split-second decisions can determine success or failure. These switches offer a slick typing experience with a clacky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the KTT Lightning differ in terms of their housing materials. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer, allowing it to absorb more sound and produce a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Lightning boasts a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, while the Anubis's nylon top housing generates a more mellow sound, the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing produces a more vibrant and clear sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Anubis and the Lightning utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches share similarities in terms of their bottom-out sound and feel due to the use of nylon in their bottom housings. However, it's worth noting that the top and bottom housings can have different impacts on the overall sound quality of a switch.
When comparing the two switches, it's important to consider how the different housing materials affect the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of a switch. Pressing down on a switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, while the Anubis and the Lightning may have similar bottom-out sounds due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the top housing will play a greater role in differentiating their sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Anubis switch has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare to the Lightning switch's actuation force of 43 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Anubis requires 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Lightning requires 50 grams, which is lighter.
Considering weight, it becomes evident that the Anubis switch is on the heavier side, suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel during typing. This heavier actuation force can provide a more substantial typing experience, pleasing those who value a sturdy and pronounced keystroke. On the other hand, the Lightning switch, with its lighter actuation force, offers a much lighter typing experience. This lowers the strain on the fingers and allows for comfortable extended typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for those using the keyboard at work or engaging in long gaming sessions.
Although the specific actuation force of the Anubis switch remains unknown, it can be inferred that due to its heavier bottom out force, it is likely to provide a more pronounced actuation than the Lightning switch. Nevertheless, similar results can be achieved with both switches in terms of typing efficiency, as they fulfill different preferences based on individual typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that the Anubis has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. The Anubis with its 4mm travel distance offers a more traditional keypress feel, allowing for a deeper tactile experience. On the other hand, the Lightning's shorter 3mm travel distance provides a more shallow keystroke, which is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference. Those seeking a more responsive and speedy typing experience may opt for the Lightning, while those desiring a deeper and more satisfying keystroke may favor the Anubis.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41.
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 and the KTT Lightning switches offer different profiles. The Anubis is known for its deep and resonant sound, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. The bump in the Anubis switches is more pronounced than in most other tactile switches, offering a sharp tactility that adds intensity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are described as clacky and high-pitched. They produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Overall, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a pronounced tactile feedback, the Anubis switches would be a good choice. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Lightning switches would suit your preference.
Moving on to feel, the Anubis switches provide an accented and polished feel. Accented switches, in the case of tactile switches, refer to switches that are not overly tactile but still provide a noticeable amount of tactility. The Anubis switches offer a prominent level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Anubis switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Similarly, the Lightning switches have a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. They offer a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel without being feather-light. The sound signature of the Lightning switches is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. In terms of feel, if you prefer a medium tactile switch with a polished finish and smooth key travel, the Anubis switches would be a good fit. If you prefer a subtler tactile experience with a polished feel, the Lightning switches would be a suitable choice.
Considering the available information, the Durock Anubis and KTT Lightning switches differ in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis switches have a deep and resonant sound with a pronounced tactile feedback, while the Lightning switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. In terms of feel, the Anubis switches offer an accented and polished experience, while the Lightning switches provide a subtle and polished feel. Both switches have a smooth and refined finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience. If you prefer a sharp tactility and a deep, resonant sound, the Anubis switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a clacky sound and a subtler tactile experience, the Lightning switches would be a suitable option. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a deep and resonant sound profile and a pronounced bump, the Durock Anubis is the way to go. It offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback that adds intensity to every keystroke. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a medium actuation force requirement suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the better choice. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a clacky sound profile, these switches are perfect for situations where milliseconds can make all the difference. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, the decision between the Anubis and Lightning switches will depend on your specific preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
