Durock Anubis vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Outemu Red Panda offer intriguing choices for different preferences. The Anubis stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. Its pronounced bump adds an intense level of tactility, making it ideal for those who prefer a sharp and distinct tactile experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. It is known for its thocky and mild characteristics, showcasing a different kind of tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Red Panda differ in their top housing materials. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, while the Anubis offers a softer and more muted sound, the Red Panda provides a clearer and resonant sound with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Anubis and the Red Panda utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. However, since the bottom housing has a greater impact on these aspects, they may still exhibit subtle differences based on other factors such as stem material and switch design.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housing materials, the characteristics and qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When a key is pressed down, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when a key is released, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced. Therefore, while the Anubis and the Red Panda share a similar bottom housing material, the different top housing materials will likely result in contrasting sound profiles for the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Anubis is unknown, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Anubis requires 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the Red Panda requires 60 grams, which is medium.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to type for longer periods of time. This is particularly beneficial for those using the keyboard for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. However, others prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, a keyboard with heavier actuation and bottom out forces is more suitable.
In terms of actuation force, since the Anubis does not provide information, it is difficult to compare it directly with the Red Panda. However, the Red Panda's actuation force of 50 grams suggests a lighter touch is required to trigger a keystroke compared to the Anubis which remains unknown.
When considering the bottom out force, both the Anubis and Red Panda require a similar amount of force to fully depress the switch. The Anubis demands 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Red Panda requires 60 grams, classifying it as medium.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Anubis remains a mystery, the Red Panda offers a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. However, in terms of the bottom out force, both switches require a similar amount of force, with the Anubis being slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
When it comes to the travel distance, the Durock Anubis tactile switch has a longer distance of 4.0 mm compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, which has a shorter distance of 3.3 mm. The Anubis falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, while the Red Panda is on the shallower end. This can make a noticeable difference in the feeling when pressing down on the keys. Gamers who prioritize faster response times often prefer shorter travel distances, making the Red Panda a suitable choice for them. On the other hand, those who appreciate a deeper and more substantial key press may find the Anubis more to their liking. Both switches offer their own unique experiences, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40.
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 is known for its deep and resonant profile, providing a satisfying and assertive feedback with every keystroke. The bump on these switches is more pronounced than most, offering a sharp tactility that adds intensity to each press. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound along with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Anubis provides a deep and assertive tone, while the Red Panda offers a lighter and more varied sound. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. This type of switch offers a medium level of tactility that is satisfying without being too intense. Additionally, the Anubis switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, typing on these switches feels seamless. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience with less pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users, as its qualities reside in a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches provide a tactile sensation, but the Anubis has a more pronounced and refined feel, while the Red Panda is milder and less intense.
Overall, the Durock Anubis and Outemu Red Panda switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a sharp tactility, while the Red Panda offers a lighter and more varied sound. In terms of feel, the Anubis has a medium level of tactility that is accented and polished for a satisfying typing experience, while the Red Panda provides a milder and approachable feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and feel. However, it's essential to consider other factors such as keyboard boards and keycaps when evaluating the overall typing experience. By considering these factors, users can achieve similar results with either switch based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a sharp and intense tactile feedback with a deep and resonant sound profile, then the Durock Anubis tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a more pronounced bump and a medium-heavy actuation force. Additionally, the Anubis is described as having an accented tactile feel and a polished finish, ensuring a prominent yet smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a typing experience that is approachable to most users, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is the better option. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Its mild tactile feel falls within a safe, middle-ground zone that many find comfortable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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