Durock Anubis vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the TTC Silent Red 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 Red. The Anubis is a tactile switch that is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. The bump is more pronounced than most other tactile switches, providing a sharp tactility that brings a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Red is a linear switch that focuses on delivering a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise. It features a muted sound profile, making it ideal for office or shared living space use. Its smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom, along with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort, enhances the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on the ideal switch for your 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Red have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic and allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Red is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Anubis and the Silent Red employ nylon material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both switches offer a similar experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing contributes to creating a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the typing experience for users of both switches.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in determining the overall sound profile of the switch. While the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing the key. This distinction suggests that the Anubis and Silent Red may exhibit variations in sound characteristics during key presses and releases, with the Anubis offering a deeper and fuller sound upon release due to its nylon top housing, while the Silent Red may provide a crisper and higher-pitched sound.
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis and TTC Silent Red differ in their choice of top housing material, with the Anubis utilizing nylon and the Silent Red opting for polycarbonate. This results in distinct sound profiles, with the Anubis offering a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Red provides a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches, however, share a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a similarly satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider the specific sound preferences and aesthetic requirements when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Anubis switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to determine its exact lightness or heaviness. However, it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch required to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force is slightly lower at 63.5 grams, which is also categorized as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations may gravitate towards the Silent Red switch. This switch's lower actuation force makes it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, individuals who seek a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push may opt for the Anubis switch. Despite the lack of available information regarding its actuation force, the Anubis switch's slightly higher bottom out force suggests a heavier and more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the chosen switch depends on personal preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Anubis has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Although the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If speed and responsiveness are your priorities, the Silent Red switch would be a better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a deeper keypress. In such cases, the Durock Anubis with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more substantial keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 is best described as having a deep and resonant sound profile with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. It offers a more pronounced bump compared to other tactile switches, providing a sharp and intense tactility with every keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience. It is perfect for situations where noise is a concern, such as in an office or shared living space. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, providing options for different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Anubis tactile switch can be described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It falls in the category of a medium tactile switch, offering a satisfying typing experience. The switch is also polished, ensuring a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is buttery and mild, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. Similar to the Anubis, the Silent Red switch is also polished, providing a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback and smoothness, catering to varied typing preferences.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Anubis tactile switch stands out for those seeking a deep and resonant sound profile with a sharp and intense tactile feedback. It is a great choice for those who prefer a more pronounced bump and a medium level of tactility. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is ideal for individuals who prioritize a quiet typing experience, perfect for office or shared living space use. It offers a smooth and buttery feel with a mild level of tactility. While the switches differ in sound and feel, they both provide polished finishes for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the intended usage environment.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a satisfying and assertive feedback, the Durock Anubis would be the ideal choice for you. With its pronounced bump and deep sound profile, it offers a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially in office or shared living space environments, the TTC Silent Red would be a perfect fit. Its muted sound profile and padded bottom-out feel provide maximum comfort while minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal preference for either a sharp tactility with a deep sound (Anubis) or a buttery smoothness with a quiet profile (Silent Red). Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on the qualities that matter most to you.
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