Durock Anubis vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as two tactile switches with distinct characteristics. The Durock Anubis is renowned for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that adds intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, from the emerging brand Aflion, provides a balanced tactile bump and a medium-weight feel, showcasing a harmonious design with a 63.5g bottom-out weight. While the Anubis is categorized as 'Accented', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Thunder Shadow falls under 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. Depending on your preferences, you may lean towards the sharp tactility of the Anubis or the balanced feel of the Thunder Shadow. 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
N/A
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
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Thunder Shadow lies in the materials used. The Anubis features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the choice between the two would depend on the desired sound profile by the user.
Interestingly, both the Anubis and the Thunder Shadow boast a nylon bottom housing. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite this similarity in housing material, the overall sound profile of the switch may differ due to the contrasting top housing material used in each keyboard switch. Regardless, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a certain level of consistency in sound between the two switches.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Aflion Thunder Shadow can be influenced by the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housings impacts the sound and feel of the switch during both pressing down and letting go of a key. The Anubis's nylon housing may result in a different tactile and audible experience compared to the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate housing. Ultimately, users with a preference for a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Anubis, while those looking for a sharper and crisper sound may favor the Thunder Shadow.
Weight
The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Anubis being slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's 63.5 grams. The actuation force for both switches is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Thunder Shadow might be a better option as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, those who like a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Anubis due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a similar tactile experience, as their actuation forces are not specified, ensuring that users will get comparable results in terms of typing feedback and responsiveness.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Anubis offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. This can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times and a more immediate tactile feedback. Both switches offer different experiences and cater to different preferences in terms of travel distance, with the Anubis being the longer option and the Thunder Shadow being the shorter option for individuals seeking specific typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced user. The sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps used. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Anubis is described as providing an accented and polished typing experience, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still satisfying, with a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is said to offer an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback, medium to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the Durock Anubis and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches may differ slightly in their tactile feel, both switches provide a neutral sound profile that can cater to a wide range of users. Whether you prefer a more pronounced and intense tactile feedback like that of the Anubis or a harmoniously balanced feel with the Thunder Shadow, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the level of tactility and typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the level of tactility and sound profile you prefer. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Anubis may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a harmonious balance of tactile feedback with a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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