Durock Anubis vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Gateron North Pole V2 offer distinct experiences. The Anubis is a tactile switch that is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile, paired with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. With a more pronounced bump than most other tactile switches, it provides a sharp tactility that intensifies every keystroke. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is a linear switch that offers a different sensation. Described as gummy, it provides a deep and muted sound profile, accompanied by a satisfying chewy typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics, catering to different preferences. 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
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Gateron North Pole V2 differ in terms of their composition and the sound profile they produce. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 offers the benefit of being translucent, making it ideal for utilization with RGB lighting.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Anubis and the North Pole V2 also exhibit distinct properties. The nylon bottom housing of the Anubis adds to its deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature contributes to sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an advantageous choice for the bottom housing if RGB lighting is incorporated.
When a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of the switch's performance. Pressing down on a switch will make you experience the qualities of the bottom housing, which primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. While the Anubis and the North Pole V2 employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, the resulting sound profiles will be distinct due to the contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate. However, if the desired result is a switch with a deeper and fuller sound profile, both switches can deliver similar outcomes due to their respective use of softer plastic materials for the top and bottom housings.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, we see some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Anubis switch is unavailable in grams, while the North Pole V2 requires 50 grams for actuation. This means that the North Pole V2 has a lighter actuation force compared to the Anubis. On the other hand, both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, which indicates a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed.
Considering weight, the Anubis switch seems to lean towards a heavier feel as the actuation force is not mentioned but the bottom out force is medium-heavy. This could be suitable for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the North Pole V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it more favorable for those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing or gaming sessions.
In conclusion, while the Anubis and North Pole V2 switches share the same bottom out force, their actuation forces differ, with the Anubis being heavier and the North Pole V2 being lighter. Depending on personal preferences, individuals can select the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and key press experience. Whether you choose the Anubis or the North Pole V2, you can expect a consistent distance of travel from the top to the bottom of the switch. With both switches offering equal travel distances, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile or linear feedback for your typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 profile that delivers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. The bump is more pronounced than most other tactile switches, providing a sharp and intense tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch produces a gummy typing sound that is deep and muted. This switch offers a more subdued sound signature compared to most switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch offers an accented tactile experience. It falls into the category of "medium tactile" switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Anubis switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a variety of sensations. It is described as gummy, providing a unique typing experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It is also creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. In addition, the North Pole V2 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Similar to the Anubis, the North Pole V2 switch is also described as polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In summary, the Durock Anubis tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a sharp and intense tactility. It has an accented and polished feel, providing a medium amount of tactility and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch delivers a gummy typing sound and offers a variety of sensations such as creamy and bouncy. Like the Anubis, it is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the sound and feel of these switches differ, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a sharp tactility and assertive tactile feedback, then the Durock Anubis tactile switch would be the better choice for you. This switch is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience with each keystroke. Additionally, its accented and polished feel ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with the same medium-heavy bottom out force but a different typing experience, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be a great option. This switch is best known for its gummy and creamy feel, providing a unique and smooth typing sensation. It offers a subdued sound profile, making it more suitable for quieter environments. Lastly, the North Pole V2 also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider what you prioritize in these aspects to choose the switch that suits your typing style and environment best.
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