Durock Anubis vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Anubis and the Cherry MX Red offer two distinct typing experiences. The Durock Anubis is a tactile switch that is designed with a deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke due to its pronounced bump. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a linear switch that offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, combining responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Anubis focuses on sharp tactility and intensity, the MX Red provides a robust 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Both the Durock Anubis and the Cherry MX Red feature nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This helps create a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a quieter and more subdued sound profile during use.
While the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Cherry MX Red share similarities in being made of nylon, the specific design and construction of each switch may still lead to some differences in overall feel and sound. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that even with the same housing material, the overall typing experience may still vary slightly between the two switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Cherry MX Red provide similar benefits in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience due to their nylon composition. Both switches offer a satisfying feel and sound for users who appreciate a deeper and fuller typing experience. Whether choosing the Durock Anubis or the Cherry MX Red, users can expect a quality typing experience thanks to the use of nylon in the top and bottom housing of these switches.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that they offer different experiences to users. The Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams but no specific information regarding the bottom out force. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Anubis for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that you will get a similar feel when typing on either switch. The travel distance of 4 mm on both switches allows for a comfortable typing experience and quick key presses. However, it is important to note that the Anubis is a tactile switch, providing a bump sensation when pressed, while the MX Red is a linear switch, which means it has a smoother keystroke without the bump. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is the same, but the typing experience may vary based on the type of switch being used.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile that provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. The bump is more pronounced, resulting in a sharp tactility that adds intensity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a rich and satisfying auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Anubis may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced tactile sound, while the MX Red is better suited for those who enjoy a deeper and robust typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Anubis switch is characterized as accented and polished, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. The smooth and refined finish of the switch results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, implying noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this texture for added feedback, while others prefer a smoother typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. The Anubis excels in providing a pronounced tactile feedback with a deep and resonant sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more intense typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a slightly heftier feel with a thocky and low-pitched sound, catering to users who prefer a deeper and robust typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. With these switches, users can expect satisfying and reliable performance in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced bump and deep sound profile, the Anubis may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heftier feel, a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the MX Red could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the experience you aim to achieve while using your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
