Durock Anubis vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come into consideration are the Durock Anubis and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, both of which are tactile switches. The Anubis is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. It boasts a more pronounced bump than most other tactile switches, making it ideal for those who prefer a sharp tactility that brings a new level of intensity to their typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to one's typing experience. These switches offer a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without becoming overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch that suits your preferences and needs.
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
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, specifically the top housings, differ significantly. The Anubis utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the contrary, the Viola Tricolor features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal.
Both switches share a common feature in their bottom housings, as both are made of nylon. This material choice in the bottom housing leads to similar sound characteristics for both switches. The use of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Consequently, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on keys for both the Anubis and the Viola Tricolor.
Considering the different roles of the top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to a switch will be distinct depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, whereas the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Anubis and the Viola Tricolor may have similar bottom housings, their differing top housings will result in contrasting sound profiles when typing and releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are a few key differences to consider. Firstly, the actuation force of both switches is not available, making it difficult to compare them directly. However, both switches are classified as medium-heavy in terms of their bottom out force. The Anubis has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Viola Tricolor's 63.5 grams.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This would make the Viola Tricolor a potentially preferable option for those seeking a lighter switch experience. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Anubis would be a suitable choice.
While the actuation force is unknown for both switches, it can be assumed that they would provide similar results. The medium-heavy bottom out force suggests that these switches will have a relatively tactile and responsive keystroke, offering a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for weight and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Anubis has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Anubis falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4.0 mm, while the Viola Tricolor is on the shallower end at 3.8 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Viola Tricolor. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Anubis with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences, so it ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile. These switches offer a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke, and the bump is more pronounced than most other tactile switches. This creates a sharp tactility that brings a new level of intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to your typing experience. These switches offer a pronounced tactility, providing a satisfying feedback without crossing into the realm of being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. Although they have different sound characteristics, both switches provide an enjoyable and immersive typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Anubis and Viola Tricolor are described as accented switches. This term is commonly used to describe a certain type of tactile switch that is not overly tactile or scratchy. It refers to a "medium tactile" switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, both switches are described as having a polished feel. This indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Reduced friction and smooth key travel can be expected with these switches. The Viola Tricolor is also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches have their own unique qualities. The Anubis is known for its deep and resonant sound profile, along with a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a balance of tactile sensation. Both switches provide a satisfying and immersive typing experience, with pronounced tactility and a polished feel. If you are looking for a switch with a deep and resonant sound, the Anubis would be a great choice. If you prefer a touch of character in your typing experience, the Viola Tricolor would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a switch with 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 intensity to every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a touch of character and a thuddy and punchy sound profile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be an excellent option. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance between tactile feedback and being overly tactile, providing a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. Both switches have an accented feel, offering a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. However, if you prefer a polished switch with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Anubis would be your go-to. Conversely, if you want an invigorating typing sensation with snappy and reactive feedback, the Viola Tricolor would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Anubis and the Haimu Viola Tricolor comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and the level of intensity you desire in your typing experience.
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