Durock Anubis vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Anubis and the Gazzew U4 are two popular options to consider. The Anubis is a tactile switch known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. Its pronounced bump offers a sharp tactility that brings a new level of intensity to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a silent tactile switch that offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, but with an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Not only does it offer a whisper-quiet sound profile, but it also provides a more muted and low-pitched audio experience. With these general pointers in mind, it's clear that both switches offer unique benefits depending on your preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Anubis Tactile

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$8.00 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Gazzew U4, while different in name, both offer similar results in terms of sound profile. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which also delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Therefore, both switches provide a similar typing experience with a focus on producing a deep and resonant sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Anubis employs nylon as well, which shares the same characteristics as the nylon top housing. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the switch is pressed. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also known as "boba plastic," which is designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. This suggests that both switches offer a similar tactile experience with a focus on creating a softer and more satisfying bottom-out sound.

Overall, the top housing of a switch plays a significant role in the sound produced when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing influences the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. While the Durock Anubis and the Gazzew U4 differ in the specific materials used for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to create a similar sound experience. Whether it be the nylon top and bottom housings of the Anubis or the proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the U4, both switches aim to provide a deep, resonant sound and a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Anubis unfortunately does not disclose the specific gram measurement, making it unknown. On the other hand, the U4 has a lower actuation force of 43 grams, which indicates a lighter touch required to trigger a keystroke compared to the Anubis. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the U4 has a slightly lower bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium category.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the U4 due to its lower actuation force. This can be advantageous for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or during long gaming sessions. Alternatively, for those desiring a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Anubis could be a suitable choice. It is important to note that while both switches fall within a medium force range, the Anubis is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the U4.

Overall, although the actuation forces differ, both the Anubis and U4 tactile switches can provide a comparable typing experience for users, given their similar bottom out forces. Therefore, those seeking similar results can select either switch based on their preference for lighter or heavier actuation forces.

Travel distance

The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Anubis offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the U4's travel distance of 3.6 mm is slightly shorter, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the longer travel distance of the Anubis may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Durock Anubis tactile switch is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile. Typing on these switches provides a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, with a pronounced bump that brings a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4s have a whisper quiet sound profile, making them perfect for those who prefer a muted and low-pitched switch.

When it comes to sound, the Anubis is described as having a neutral sound profile. It falls right in the middle, neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the U4 is specifically designed to produce a softer and quieter sound. It falls into the muted category, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the U4 has a low-pitched sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.

In terms of feel, the Anubis is categorized as an accented switch. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a medium level of tactility. The Anubis also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the U4 tactile switch is described as sharp. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress, providing a high feedback intensity.

In conclusion, the Durock Anubis and Gazzew U4 tactile switches have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Anubis offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, perfect for those who prefer a sharp tactility. On the other hand, the U4 provides a softer and quieter sound with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4 has a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, making it ideal for users who enjoy a high feedback intensity. Both switches bring their unique qualities to the table, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. However, it's important to note that other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the switch's sound and feel. Therefore, it's recommended to consider these factors when making a decision.

Conclusion

In summary, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep and resonant sound profile, the Durock Anubis tactile switch would be a great choice for you. The Anubis offers a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with its pronounced bump, bringing a new level of intensity to every keystroke. Additionally, the Anubis has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a quieter sound profile, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch may be the better option. The U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump and produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It also provides a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding a touch of luxury to your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Anubis and U4 switches depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Anubis Tactile

$8.00 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more