Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch. The Anubis is renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. Its pronounced bump provides a sharp tactility that intensifies the typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more assertive key feel. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic by Gateron brings a new twist to the clicky switch category, incorporating advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a smooth typing experience while still delivering that classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. The Melodic switch is characterized by its buttery smoothness, resonant sound, invigorating feel, and crunchy feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on your personal preference for typing experience. 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
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Melodic differ in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Anubis, with its nylon top housing, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound can greatly impact the typing experience for users, as the type of sound produced can affect typing feedback and overall satisfaction. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a more visually appealing option for users who enjoy customizable lighting options.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material of both switches is nylon, allowing for a similar deep and full sound profile to be maintained throughout the typing experience. This consistency in sound profile between the two switches' bottom housings may result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound feedback, despite the differences in their top housing materials. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch cannot be overlooked, as it can greatly influence the overall typing experience and user preference.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Melodic ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While the Anubis offers a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Melodic provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Users who prioritize RGB lighting effects may lean towards the Melodic, while those who prefer a more muffled sound may prefer the Anubis. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the Anubis has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Melodic's 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches have a similar actuation force of None grams, resulting in a similar initial keystroke trigger for typing. The Anubis would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Melodic is slightly lighter, ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them equally suitable for individuals who prefer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels. In comparison to switches with shorter or longer travel distances, such as the Cherry MX Red with a 2 mm travel distance or the Cherry MX Green with a 4 mm travel distance, both the Anubis and the Melodic fall in the middle ground in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to other factors such as tactile feedback or the sound of the switch rather than the travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 offers a deep and resonant profile with a pronounced tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic provides a higher-pitched and clean sound with a classic clicky feel that is smooth due to factory lubing and dual-railed stems. Depending on your preference, the Anubis may suit those who prefer a more assertive sound, while the Melodic may appeal to those who enjoy a crisp and crunchy auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis provides an accented tactile feedback that is not overwhelming or subtle, making it a medium tactile switch with a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. The Gateron Melodic, on the other hand, offers a buttery and invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel, ensuring a fluid and uniform keystroke experience. Depending on your typing style, the Anubis may cater to those who prefer a prominent yet refined tactility, while the Melodic may be more suited for individuals seeking a smooth and effortless typing feel.
Overall, both the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Melodic switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deep and resonant sound with assertive tactility or a higher-pitched tone with smooth keystrokes, both switches provide distinct typing experiences that can elevate your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that you get a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp tactility that provides a new level of intensity to every keystroke, the Anubis is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, a classic clicky sound, and smooth key travel, the Melodic is a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your preference for tactility and sound profile. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, so choose based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
Mentioned in this article
