Durock Anubis vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Sky V3 offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Anubis is a tactile switch known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump for intense keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sky V3 is a linear switch popular for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a comfortable and precise typing experience. While the Anubis is perfect for those who enjoy a sharp tactility, the Sky V3 caters to a wider range of typing preferences with its balance of comfort and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Dareu Sky V3 both have differences in their top housing materials, with the Anubis featuring a nylon top housing and the Sky V3 utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Anubis provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile because it is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. If you are looking for a switch with a more muted sound, the Anubis may be the better choice, while the Sky V3 would be more suitable for those who prefer a brighter sound.
On the other hand, both the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Sky V3 have nylon bottom housings, which provide a similar deep and full sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity in bottom housing material may provide a consistent typing experience between the two switches, with the differences in their top housing materials being the main factor influencing the sound profile.
In terms of functionality, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Sky V3 may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The split between the qualities of the housing materials in the top and bottom of the switch allows for a differentiated typing experience, making the bottom housing more impactful on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a duller and rounder sound, the Anubis may be more suitable, whereas if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Sky V3 would be the better option.
Weight
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, and an actuation force of None grams, making it a light switch in terms of actuation force. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Anubis, and a bottom out force of None grams, which is unavailable. The Anubis provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Sky V3 offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing feel. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Anubis for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent feedback and keypress depth when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, providing a familiar feel for those who prefer a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, suitable for various typing preferences and environments. However, the Anubis offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with a deeper and more resonant sound, perfect for those who prefer a sharper tactility. On the other hand, the Sky V3 has a more subdued sound, providing a quieter typing experience while still maintaining a comfortable level of feedback. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Anubis is characterized by its accented tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. In comparison, the Sky V3 is known for its mild feel, offering a gentler typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. Both switches aim to provide comfort and precision in typing, catering to a wide range of enthusiasts and professionals.
In conclusion, while the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have their respective unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both aim to offer a satisfying and comfortable typing experience for users with diverse preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper tactility with pronounced feedback like the Anubis or a softer, more subdued typing experience like the Sky V3, both switches provide a balance of performance and comfort that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a prominent tactile feedback and a deep sound profile, the Anubis is the way to go. The Anubis's medium-heavy bottom out force and pronounced bump make it a great choice for those seeking a more intense typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature and a medium-light weight switch, the Dareu Sky V3 is a solid option. With its widespread acclaim for delivering comfort and precision, the Sky V3 is ideal for a diverse range of typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a sharp tactility or a gentle typing experience. Make your choice based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you.