Durock Anubis vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch, it's clear that they offer unique benefits for different preferences. The Anubis is praised for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp tactility that intensifies every keystroke. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron stands out for its smoothness, stability, and silent typing experience thanks to its self-padding design. Both switches have their strengths, making the decision between them a matter of personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we can see that the Anubis utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Zero Degree 0° employs polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The use of nylon in both top and bottom housings of the Anubis results in a deep and full sound profile, thanks to its softness and sound absorbent properties. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, with its stiffness contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a difference in sound quality between the two switches based on the housing materials used.
However, despite the housing materials being different in the Durock Anubis and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches still provide a deep and full sound profile due to the use of nylon in their constructions. The Anubis's nylon top and bottom housing create a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing. While the top housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Therefore, whether using the Anubis or the Zero Degree 0°, users can still expect similar results in terms of sound profile, albeit with slight differences in clarity and sharpness.
In terms of aesthetics, the Anubis's nylon housing provides a classic and timeless look, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing offers a more modern and sleek appearance, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Both switches have their unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel, with the Anubis offering a softer and fuller typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° provides a sharper and clearer sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and design aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Anubis provides a heavier typing experience compared to the Zero Degree 0°, which offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Anubis would be the ideal choice, whereas the Zero Degree 0° would be suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preference, with the Anubis being heavier and the Zero Degree 0° being lighter in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Anubis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The Anubis with its 4 mm travel distance could provide a bit more depth and feedback when typing, whereas the Zero Degree 0° with its 3.6 mm travel distance might offer a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference could be noticeable to those who are sensitive to such nuances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a slightly longer or shorter travel distance for their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, delivering a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the Anubis provides a more intense and pronounced sound experience, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on minimizing noise for a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis switch is described as having a medium tactile feel that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, it offers a smooth and refined typing experience due to its polished finish. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its soft and elastic feel, thanks to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure. While the Anubis switch focuses on a balanced and medium tactile feel, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes a smooth and cushioned typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Anubis tactile switch offers a more intense and pronounced tactile feedback with a deep and resonant sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch provides a silent and smooth typing experience with its innovative design that reduces noise and offers unparalleled smoothness. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prioritize a pronounced tactile bump and resonant sound (Anubis) or a silent and smooth typing experience (Zero Degree 0°).
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and deep sound profile, the Anubis is a great choice. The medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams provides a satisfying and assertive keystroke feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that focuses on smoothness, stability, and noise reduction, the Zero Degree 0° is the way to go. With its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, this switch delivers unparalleled smoothness and a soft, elastic feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and sound profile (Anubis) or smoothness and noise reduction (Zero Degree 0°) in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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