An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Phoenix. The Anubis, a tactile switch, is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. It offers a pronounced bump, adding a sharp tactility that intensifies the typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix, a clicky switch, stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most distinctive options available today. It provides a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, putting a touch of elegance to your every press. While these general descriptions already give an idea of what each switch brings to the table, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch best suits your preferences.
N/A
N/A
65g
62g
N/A
1.80 mm
4.00 mm
3.30 mm
Yes
Yes
Standard
Standard
POM
POM
Nylon
Polycarbonate
Nylon
Polycarbonate
PCB (5-pin)
PCB (5-pin)
Gold-plated
Stainless steel
The Durock Anubis and the Outemu Phoenix both utilize different materials for their top and bottom switch housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Phoenix's top housing is particularly beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. Overall, the top housings of both switches provide contrasting sound experiences.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Anubis and the Phoenix differ in terms of their housing materials and resulting sound profiles. The Anubis incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which, like its top housing, contributes to a deep and full sound while typing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder overall sound profile. On the other hand, the Phoenix features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. It is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, further contributing to the distinct sound experiences of these two switches.
In summary, the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Phoenix exhibit contrasting sound profiles due to the variations in their top and bottom switch housings. While the Anubis's nylon housings create a deeper and fuller sound, the Phoenix's polycarbonate housings result in a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Anubis provides a duller sound profile due to the nylon's sound-absorbing properties, whereas the Phoenix's polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. However, it is important to note that each housing material's impact differs depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Therefore, while there are differences between these two switches, both can deliver satisfying results depending on the desired sound profile.
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is important to note that the specific values for their actuation forces are unavailable. However, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy, while the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Weight, in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, plays a crucial role in the typing experience. For individuals who prefer a lighter feel, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, the lighter switch would be preferable. This is ideal for those who frequently use their keyboards for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. However, for users seeking a more substantial and satisfying typing experience, a switch with a heavier actuation and bottom out force would be more suitable.
Although the exact actuation forces of both switches are unknown, it can be assumed that they will provide similar results due to their classification in the medium range for bottom out force. Both switches offer a tactile feedback, ensuring a noticeable and satisfying keystroke response. Ultimately, the main difference between the two switches lies in the bottom out force, with the Anubis being slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the Phoenix's 62 grams.
In terms of travel distance, the Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Anubis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The traditional travel distance of 4 mm is typically associated with a standard typing experience, while the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Phoenix is shallower and more suited for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The shorter travel distance of the Phoenix can provide a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the Anubis for a more hearty depth. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and whether one prefers a shorter or longer travel distance.
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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.
In terms of sound, the Durock Anubis offers a deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. It has a more pronounced bump compared to most other tactile switches, resulting in a sharp tactility that intensifies every keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix features a unique under-skirt click mechanism, creating a crystalline and sparkling type sound profile. It is often associated with a "crunchy" sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Anubis and Phoenix switches are described as polished. A polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. It reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. The Anubis switch is also described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It can be categorized as a "medium tactile" switch. The Phoenix switch, however, does not have any specific descriptor for its feel other than being polished.
Taking all the available information into account, the Durock Anubis and Outemu Phoenix switches have their own unique qualities. The Anubis offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a sharp tactility, while the Phoenix provides a sparkling and "crunchy" clicky sound. Both switches have a polished feel, ensuring smooth and refined typing experiences with reduced friction. However, it's important to consider personal preferences and the specific use case when choosing between these switches. If you are looking for a switch with similar qualities to the Anubis or Phoenix, considering other switches with similar descriptors such as "neutral" or "crunchy" may yield similar results.
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you appreciate a deep and resonant sound profile, along with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, the Anubis is the switch for you. Its pronounced bump adds a sharp tactility that intensifies each keystroke. On the other hand, if you seek a more unique clicky switch with a crystalline and sparkling sound profile, the Phoenix is the way to go. Its under-skirt click mechanism provides a distinctive typing experience. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various uses. However, the Anubis offers a more accented and polished feel, while the Phoenix boasts a polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your sound and feel preferences.