Durock Anubis vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Milk Blue offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The Anubis is a tactile switch that is specially designed to provide a deep and resonant sound profile, along with satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. With a more pronounced bump compared to other tactile switches, the Anubis is ideal for those who enjoy sharp tactility that adds an extra level of intensity to typing. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch that is best known for its distinct audible click sound when activated. While the Anubis is categorized as accented, neutral, and polished, the Milk Blue does not have a specific categorization. Each switch has its own unique features and advantages, but to truly determine which one is the best fit for your typing style and preferences, let's delve into a more detailed comparison.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Outemu Milk Blue both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This creates a duller and rounder sound, making typing a more tactile and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Anubis features a nylon top housing, enhancing the overall sound profile with its absorbing properties, while the Milk Blue boasts a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience thanks to their choice of housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Milk Blue stands out for its clear polycarbonate top housing, allowing for RGB lighting effects that can enhance the overall look of a keyboard. This makes the Milk Blue a popular choice for gamers and enthusiasts who appreciate customizable lighting options. On the other hand, the Durock Anubis's nylon top housing may not be as visually striking, but it still provides a solid typing experience with its absorbent properties and deeper sound profile. Whether you prioritize aesthetics or sound quality, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to overall sound and feel, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Milk Blue ultimately comes down to personal preference. While both switches offer similar bottom housings made of nylon that contribute to a fuller sound profile, the difference in top housing materials creates distinct typing experiences. The Anubis's softer nylon top housing absorbs more sound for a duller sound profile, whereas the Milk Blue's stiffer polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and more resonant sound. Whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound or a crisper, higher-pitched sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we can see some notable differences. The Anubis has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is not specified, while the Milk Blue requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is not specified. In terms of weight, the Milk Blue is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Anubis is heavier when it comes to bottoming out. This difference in weight may appeal to different preferences, with some favoring a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions and others preferring a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth. Whether you choose the Anubis or the Milk Blue switch, you can expect to have a tactile or clicky typing experience with the same amount of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 a pronounced bump that adds intensity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis switch is described as accented and polished, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle, along with a smooth and refined typing experience. Unfortunately, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Milk Blue switch. Again, it is worth mentioning that the typing experience can vary depending on other factors such as keycap material and PCB construction.
Overall, the Durock Anubis tactile switch seems to excel in both sound and feel qualities with its deep sound profile and prominent tactile feedback. While specific information on the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is lacking, it is important to consider factors such as personal preference and compatibility with other components to determine which switch would be the best fit for your typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person or seeking out more detailed reviews may provide a clearer insight into their subjective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for a tactile or clicky switch. If you enjoy a sharp tactility and a deep sound profile with each keystroke, the Anubis is the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter actuation force and a satisfying click sound, then the Milk Blue would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing experience and sound profile.