Durock Anubis vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Durock Anubis and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, both offering a tactile typing experience. The Anubis is renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. With a more pronounced bump than most other tactile switches, it is particularly appealing for those who prefer a sharp tactility that adds an intense level of satisfaction to their typing. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches offer a very sharp tactile bump, catering to individuals who enjoy a crisp typing feel. While they produce a lower-than-average sound frequency, they maintain a deep but not "thocky" tone. These switches are described as snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have distinct differences that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile of the Blueberry is on the deeper side but relatively more muted compared to the Anubis. Both switches offer their own auditory experience, with the Anubis emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound, while the Blueberry focuses on a muted yet pleasing sound.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Anubis and the Blueberry switches differ in their impact on the overall sound profile. The Anubis utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which shares similar characteristics as its nylon top housing counterpart. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the deep and full sound profile when typing, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound. Conversely, the Blueberry utilizes a POM bottom housing, adding to its unique sound characteristics. The POM bottom housing produces a deeper sound, but with a relatively more muted tone. When using these switches, it is essential to consider that the sound and feel when bottoming out a key will be more influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing the key will be more impacted by the top housing.

Despite their differences, both the Durock Anubis and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer comparable results, while still maintaining their own distinct qualities. Both switches utilize classic switch housing materials, with the Anubis featuring nylon and the Blueberry utilizing POM. While the Anubis emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nylon housing, the Blueberry offers a pleasing and unique sound profile with its POM housing. In terms of their bottom housings, the qualities brought forth by the housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel when typing. It is important to assess your personal preferences and desired sound profile when choosing between these switches, as they each offer their own auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, one can easily see that there are distinct differences between the two. The Anubis has an actuation force that is unavailable in grams, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Blueberry's actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom-out force, the Anubis requires 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Blueberry demands 80 grams, indicating a heavier force.

The weight or force of a switch is an important factor to consider for different preferences and use cases. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for more extended periods of typing, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience opt for a switch with a stronger push feel, favoring heavier forces.

While the specific actuation force of the Anubis remains unknown, it is evident that the Blueberry has a lower actuation force of 55 grams. For those seeking a lighter switch, the Blueberry would be the clear choice. However, in terms of the bottom-out force, the Anubis requires 65 grams, whereas the Blueberry demands 80 grams, making it the heavier option.

In conclusion, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Anubis remains unknown in terms of actuation force but has a lower bottom-out force of 65 grams. In contrast, the Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams but requires a heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams. Ultimately, users can select these switches based on their individual preferences for lighter or heavier forces, knowing they will achieve similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a consistent and satisfying 4 mm distance of travel. The similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience with both switches will be comparable, providing a comfortable and responsive feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Anubis offers a deep and resonant profile that provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. The bump in these switches is more pronounced than most, delivering a sharp tactility that adds intensity to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry emits a lower-than-average sound frequency, with a slightly deeper tone compared to average switches. Although the Blueberry switches are not "thocky," they still offer a clean and sharp sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of these switches can be affected by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis is an accented switch, providing a medium-level amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches are also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Anubis switches offer an enjoyable and sleek feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches are snappy and responsive, thanks to their longer or dual-staged springs. This gives a lively and energetic typing experience. The Blueberry switches are often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. However, it is unknown whether they have a textured surface or if they offer an invigorating feel. Lastly, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a stiffer actuation force, requiring more pressure compared to other switches.

In conclusion, the Durock Anubis and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a pronounced tactile bump for an intense typing experience. It has an accented feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, accompanied by a polished switch design for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches emit a lower-than-average sound frequency with a clean and sharp profile. They offer a snappy and buttery typing feel, thanks to their responsive nature and smooth keystroke. However, the Blueberry switches have an unknown texturing and invigorating quality and require a stiffer actuation force compared to other switches. If you are looking for a sharp and intense tactile experience with a deep sound profile, the Durock Anubis is a suitable choice. The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, on the other hand, provides a unique and lively typing experience with a lower-pitched sound and snappy feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Anubis would be a great choice. These switches are best known for their deep and resonant sound profile, as well as the satisfying and assertive tactile feedback they provide with every keystroke. The pronounced bump of the Anubis adds an intensity to your typing experience. In terms of sound, the Anubis has a neutral profile, making it suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Anubis is described as accented and polished, offering a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming, and providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry would be a better fit. These switches are known for their sharp tactile bump and lower-than-average sound frequency. They offer a snappy and buttery typing feel, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. In terms of sound, the Blueberry has a low-pitched and resonant profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry depends on your preference for bottom out force and the specific sound and feel characteristics you desire in a switch.

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