Durock Anubis vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Durock Anubis and the Jwick Taro, both of which belong to the tactile switch family. The Anubis showcases its unique selling point with a deep and resonant sound profile, delivering a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. Its pronounced bump sets it apart from other tactile switches, providing a sharp tactility that elevates the intensity of each press. On the other hand, the Taro offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility. Accompanied by acute and crisp clacks, the Taro switches create a comfortable and subdued atmosphere. While these general descriptions offer valuable insights, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and the Jwick Taro differ in their housing materials, with the Anubis featuring a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Taro has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Anubis creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. So, if you're seeking a switch with a softer and more absorbent sound, both the Anubis and the Taro would provide similar results in this aspect.
When it comes to the impact on the sound and feel of the switch, the distinction lies between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, with the Anubis having a nylon bottom housing and the Taro having a nylon bottom housing as well, their bottom-out sound and feel would be quite similar. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This is where the difference between the nylon top housing of the Anubis, which produces a duller sound, and the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro, which creates a more pronounced sound, becomes apparent. So, if you prioritize the sound when releasing a key and prefer a sharper and more distinct sound, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing would be the better choice.
In terms of aesthetics and compatibility with RGB lighting, the Taro has an advantage with its polycarbonate top housing. As polycarbonate is translucent, it allows for better light diffusion, enhancing the visual effects of RGB lighting. This makes the Taro a suitable option if you plan to incorporate RGB lighting into your keyboard setup. The Anubis, with its nylon top housing, does not offer the same level of translucency, limiting its compatibility with RGB lighting. Therefore, if you prioritize the visual aspect and want to make the most of RGB lighting effects, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing would be a more suitable choice.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is clear that there are some similarities and differences. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force for both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Anubis measuring at 65 grams and the Taro at 67 grams.
Weight is an important consideration when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact typing experience and comfort. For those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing them to type for extended periods without fatigue, the Anubis may be the preferred choice due to its unknown actuation force. This makes it difficult to determine if it would be lighter or heavier compared to the Taro.
On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel may opt for options with heavier forces. In this case, both the Anubis and Taro can provide a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Taro slightly edging out at 67 grams. It is important to note that although the exact actuation force is unknown for both switches, a similar medium-heavy feel can likely be achieved with both, ensuring a comparable typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience – lighter or heavier.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Anubis offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro. This means that when you press down on a key with the Anubis switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance compared to the Taro switch. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Anubis being closer to the standard 4 mm distance and the Taro being slightly shallower at 3.7 mm. It is important to consider your personal preferences when choosing between these switches. If you prefer a more responsive feel with a shorter travel distance, the Taro switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Anubis switch with its longer travel distance may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, both the Durock Anubis and Jwick Taro switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. As such, these switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that while the switch itself plays a role in the sound produced, other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps also contribute to the overall sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Anubis switches are described as accented and polished. This means that they provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, giving a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Additionally, these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches are described as buttery and stepped. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The stepped nature of these switches means that you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a more mild tactile feel compared to switches with a continuous bump.
In conclusion, both the Durock Anubis and Jwick Taro switches have their own unique qualities. The Anubis offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with a pronounced bump and a deep, resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Taro switches provide a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks. While they have different subjective qualities, they both fall under the neutral category in terms of sound profile and offer a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Anubis and Jwick Taro tactile switches, you should consider your preferences for tactility and typing experience. If you prefer a more pronounced and intense tactile bump, the Anubis switch is the better choice for you. It offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, along with a deep and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Anubis is described as having an accented and polished feel, providing a medium tactile experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy and medium-level of tactility, along with acute and crisp clacks, the Taro switch is the one to go for. It offers a cozy typing experience, accompanied by a comfortable color scheme. The Taro switch is described as having a buttery and stepped feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild tactile sensation.
Ultimately, both switches have a similar actuation force requirement and sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, or if you plan to use the switches at home or work, they will serve you well.
Overall, when making your decision, consider the level of tactility and typing experience you prefer. If you desire a sharper and more intense tactile feedback, along with a deep sound profile, opt for the Durock Anubis. If you prefer a snappy and medium-level tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks, choose the Jwick Taro. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. Happy typing!
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