Durock Anubis vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Anubis and the TTC Silent Brown, both of which are tactile switches. The Anubis is renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. Its pronounced bump sets it apart from other tactile switches, delivering a sharp tactility that enhances the intensity of typing. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a rounded tactile bump. What sets it apart is its muted sound profile, providing a more subtle and noise-conscious option. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the TTC Silent Brown switches differ significantly. The Anubis features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Silent Brown incorporates a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer composition, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Therefore, typing on the Anubis with its nylon housing will provide a duller and rounder sound experience, whereas the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing will produce a clearer and more resonant sound.
Moreover, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the overall performance of these switches. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is primarily influenced by the material of the bottom housing. With the Anubis's nylon bottom housing and the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing, both switches will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys are pressed down. However, when it comes to the sound generated when releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more influential. The Anubis's nylon top housing and the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing will contribute to contrasting sound profiles, with the Anubis creating a duller sound and the Silent Brown producing a crisper sound.
Despite their differences, the Anubis and Silent Brown switches share similarities due to their respective nylon bottom housings. Both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound experience when keys are pressed, thanks to the nature of nylon as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This similarity in the bottom housing material mitigates some of the differences found in the top housings. However, it is important to note that the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing will still create a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Anubis's nylon top housing will contribute to a rounder and duller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Anubis is not specified, while the Silent Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Silent Brown requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Anubis, making it more ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Anubis requires 65 grams of force, which is slightly heavier than the Silent Brown's 63.5 grams. This makes the Anubis slightly heavier and more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, but the Silent Brown offers a lighter actuation force while the Anubis has a slightly heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Anubis tactile switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Anubis being slightly longer and the Silent Brown slightly shorter. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Anubis more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
The Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 auditory feedback with each keystroke. The bump of the Anubis is more pronounced than most other tactile switches, delivering a sharp tactility that adds a heightened level of intensity to typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is praised for its muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystroke sounds compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Brown switches minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches offer a prominent tactile bump that enhances typing feedback without being overly intense. Additionally, the Anubis switches are described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be attributed to either high-quality materials or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a buttery typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. These switches provide a seamless and effortless typing experience with a uniform feel across all keystrokes. Moreover, the Silent Brown switches are also described as mild, offering a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. Similar to the Anubis, the Silent Brown switches are also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Durock Anubis and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis provides a deep and resonant sound profile with a pronounced tactile bump, while the Silent Brown produces a muted sound and offers a buttery and mild typing experience. Both switches share the common attribute of being polished, ensuring smoother key travel. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing needs when deciding between these switches, as the Anubis prioritizes sharp tactility and intensity, while the Silent Brown focuses on comfort and a quieter experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prefer a switch with a more intense and assertive tactile feedback, the Durock Anubis tactile switch is the way to go. With its pronounced bump and medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Anubis offers a satisfying and sharp tactility that adds a new level of intensity to every keystroke. Additionally, the Anubis has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a lighter resistance and a rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the better choice for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying tactile bump. Moreover, the Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Anubis is described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. In contrast, the Silent Brown is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches depends on your personal preferences. If you desire a more intense and assertive tactile feedback, go for the Anubis. But if comfort and a quieter typing experience are what you prioritize, the Silent Brown is the way to go. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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