Durock Anubis vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two excellent options to consider. The Anubis is renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. With a pronounced bump, it provides a sharp tactility that intensifies the typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring from Aflion is known for its medium level of tactility, making it approachable and comfortable to use. The lower actuation and bottom-out force of the Shadow switch provides a gentle tactile response. Additionally, its deep and thocky sound profile adds another layer of satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Anubis Tactile

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$8.00 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Anubis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have contrasting housing materials that greatly affect the sound profile of their switches. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring boasts a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound due to the rigidity of polycarbonate. This means that typing on the Anubis switches will elicit a duller and rounder sound, while the Shadow (Ink) switches will provide a more clear and resonant sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches exhibit similar differences in sound profile. The Anubis utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. As with the top housing, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt when pressing down on the switch, providing a distinctive sound and feel. Both switches excel in providing unique sound profiles due to their varying materials.

It is worth noting that the aesthetic aspect of the switches is also affected by their housing materials. If a switch features a clear housing, it is more likely to be polycarbonate, as seen in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This translucency is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the Anubis with its nylon housing may not offer the same visual effects. However, when it comes to obtaining similar results, both switches are capable of providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether one prefers the softer and fuller sound of the Anubis or the sharper and crisper sound of the Shadow (Ink), these switches offer distinct options for different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Anubis switch has an actuation force of an unavailable grams, thus making it difficult to determine a specific value. However, its bottom out force is 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a lower actuation force of 48 grams, providing a slightly lighter touch when triggering a keystroke. Similarly, its bottom out force is 55 grams, which falls into the medium-light category.

Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes clear that the Anubis switch is on the heavier side, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is comparatively lighter. This difference in weight can have an impact on the typing experience. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to allow for more extended periods of typing, especially for activities like work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, others may enjoy the additional weight provided by the Anubis switch, as it offers a more substantial and satisfying push feel.

Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on an individual's personal preference. If a lighter touch and ease of typing are desired, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be the more suitable option. However, for those prioritizing a stronger and more substantial typing experience, the Anubis switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be a better choice.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same 4 mm travel distance. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches as they provide identical results. Whether you choose the Durock Anubis or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect to have a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a 4 mm key travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Anubis offers a deep and resonant sound profile. With a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke is accompanied by a more pronounced bump compared to most other tactile switches. This sharp tactility adds a new level of intensity to typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is not mentioned, so it is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Durock Anubis provides an accented feel. This means that it offers a medium level of tactility, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as bouncy. This suggests that these switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed.

Considering all the available information, the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer different subjective qualities. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a more pronounced tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer intense tactility. Its accented feel and polished finish contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility and a deep and thocky sound profile, although further details about its sound are unknown. The bouncy feel of these switches provides a lively feedback sensation. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can offer satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp tactility that brings intensity to each keystroke, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is the way to go. It is designed with a deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. Additionally, the Anubis switch is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a more approachable level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended. It features a deep and thocky sound profile and is described as providing a bouncy and lively feel, giving you a rebound sensation when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferences for bottom out force, tactility, sound profile, and overall feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Anubis Tactile

$8.00 per 10

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Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more