Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stand out as popular options, but for different reasons. The Anubis is a tactile switch that is designed to provide a deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. Its pronounced bump adds a sharp tactility, bringing a new level of intensity to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch that excels in both gaming and typing. It is known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, accompanied by a pleasingly low, "thocky" sound and thick resistance. With its all-purpose functionality, it has become the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
The Durock Anubis and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which are classic switch housing materials known for their ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder materials, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
However, where the two switches differ is in the distribution of these housing materials. The Anubis has a separate nylon top and bottom housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) also utilizes nylon for both. The impact of these materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
Despite these differences, both switches ultimately offer similar results due to the common use of nylon for their housings. Typing on either switch will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the nylon material absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This shared quality ensures that typists will experience a pleasantly dull and round sound while using either the Durock Anubis or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may display some differences in terms of the distribution of their nylon top and bottom housings. However, the similar nature of nylon as a switch housing material ensures that both switches will provide comparable typing experiences, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether it's the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel or the sound produced upon key release, the utilization of nylon guarantees a satisfying and consistent auditory experience for users of either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Anubis tactile switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it uncertain how it compares to the Milky Yellow Pro. However, the Anubis does have a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro has a lower actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter touch required to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force is slightly lower as well, at 62 grams, maintaining a medium level.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some users prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions and is well-suited for work or extended gaming sessions. In this case, the Milky Yellow Pro with its lower actuation and bottom out forces may be preferred. On the other hand, others might prefer a heavier actuation and bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. For these users, the Anubis tactile switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force might provide the desired feel.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Anubis tactile switch is unavailable, its bottom out force is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams. The Milky Yellow Pro, on the other hand, has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier touch, with the Anubis providing a more substantial typing experience and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a lighter option.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience with their identical travel distances. So, whether you choose the Durock Anubis or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), you can expect similar results in terms of the switch's travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Anubis tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. The bump is pronounced, adding a sharp tactility that enhances the intensity of typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a low-pitched, "thocky" sound. It offers a deep and rich sound that resembles bass tones, providing a pleasing auditory experience. Both switches have unique sound characteristics, with the Anubis being more neutral and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) being bass-heavy and low-pitched.
In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch has an accented tactility, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a prominent tactile feedback without being scratchy. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Some users may also appreciate the textured feel of the switch, as it adds a subtle friction that can enhance their typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct qualities. The Anubis provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with its pronounced bump and deep sound profile. It is suitable for those who prefer a sharp tactility. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with its low-pitched, "thocky" sound. It is a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing scenarios. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. As such, while they may provide different subjective qualities, one can achieve similar results by carefully selecting complementary components.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are someone who values a sharp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Durock Anubis tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. The Anubis's accented feel provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, and its polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. The Milky Yellow Pro's low-pitched and bassy sound profile adds depth and richness to your typing, while its buttery and textured feel provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) comes down to your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize sharp tactility and a deep sound profile or a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and excel in different areas, so weigh your priorities and choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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