Durock Anubis vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Tom both fall under the category of tactile switches, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with every keystroke. The Anubis is designed with a deep and resonant sound profile, featuring a more pronounced bump compared to other tactile switches, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp tactility that adds intensity to typing. On the other hand, the Tom lacks a specific standout feature but is known for its reliability and consistency. While the Anubis is categorized as accented, neutral, polished, the Tom does not have any specific categorization. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's delve 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
55g
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
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Tom, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing material. The Durock Anubis features a nylon top housing, which will continue to contribute to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom's polycarbonate top housing will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that aim for a more distinct sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the sound profile.
Overall, while both the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Tom share the same bottom housing material of nylon, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profiles. The use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a consistent typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the choice between the nylon top housing of the Anubis and the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a softer, rounder sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of force. The Anubis boasts a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke, with the bottom out force unknown. This makes the Anubis the heavier option compared to the Tom. Those who prefer a lighter keystroke for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Tom, while those seeking a more tactile and substantial typing experience may opt for the Anubis. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Anubis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Tom, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Tom's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Anubis providing a more substantial keypress and the Tom offering a quicker, shallower feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Tom 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 is known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. The bump is more pronounced compared to most other tactile switches, offering a sharp tactility that intensifies the typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is characterized as having an accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch.
Overall, the Durock Anubis tactile switch stands out for its deep sound profile, pronounced tactile bump, accented tactile feel, and polished finish, offering a unique and satisfying typing experience. While information about the Outemu Tom tactile switch is limited, it is possible that you may achieve similar results in sound and feel with these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a sharp and intense tactile feedback, the Anubis would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an unspecified bottom out force and sound profile, the Tom may be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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