HMX Game1989 vs. PH Studio Aniya
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the PH Studio Aniya switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX 1989 and the PH Studio Aniya linear switches stand out for their unique characteristics, appealing to different types of users. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, resulting in an immersive experience. Conversely, the PH Studio Aniya, crafted by BSUN, strikes a harmonious balance with a clacky sound profile that remains pleasantly audible without being overpowering, making it a fantastic option for those who appreciate a nuanced acoustic experience. Additionally, the Aniya’s use of Ly as the stem material lends it a wonderfully smooth tactile feel, coupled with a medium-light actuation that offers effortless keystrokes. While both switches cater to the linear enthusiasts, their distinct sound and feel set them apart, thus influencing your choice based on 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the PH Studio Aniya, notable differences can be found in their respective designs. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition that generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality appeals to users who prioritize clarity and brightness in their keyboard acoustics, especially in setups that include RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Aniya features a POM top housing, which produces a sound that is notably deeper and more muted. The softness of the POM material contributes to a unique sound profile that offers a pleasing aesthetic but lacks the sharpness typically associated with polycarbonate.
Turning to the bottom housing materials, both the HMX 1989 and the Aniya employ nylon and POM, respectively, though their characteristics further reinforce their differing auditory profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the HMX 1989 is a classic choice, yielding a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively soft composition. This contrasts sharply with the POM bottom housing used in the Aniya, which, while also producing a deep sound, brings a distinctively muted quality to the overall typing experience. This variance suggests that while both switches aim to provide satisfying keystrokes, the methods through which they achieve them diverge significantly, leading to different tactile and auditory sensations.
In terms of the overall acoustic result, both switches can deliver pleasing experiences, albeit in different registers. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in the HMX 1989 tends to favor a clearer upper register with a stronger bottom-out sound, while the Aniya’s POM materials may result in a more uniform sound that leans toward a darker tonal quality. Thus, even though they utilize different materials, each switch is carefully calibrated to produce satisfying feedback; this illustrates how the distinct properties of their materials can still yield a gratifying typing experience, albeit with different auditory profiles. Ultimately, the choice between the two boils down to personal preference for sound and feel, highlighting the subjective nature of mechanical keyboards and their component materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the PH Studio Aniya linear switch, notable differences can be observed in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Aniya features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, marking it as a light switch. This means that the Aniya may provide a more effortless typing experience, appealing to users who prefer lighter switches for extended use, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the slightly heavier HMX 1989 could deliver a more substantial feel, preferred by those who favor a stronger push when typing. Therefore, while both switches serve different user preferences, the Aniya is lighter overall, making it a suitable choice for those seeking less resistance, whereas the HMX 1989 offers a bit more heft for a different tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the PH Studio Aniya linear switch, there is a notable difference. The HMX 1989 boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, aligning with the traditional longer distance that many users prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, catering to those who favor quick responsiveness, such as gamers. This significant difference means that users seeking a hearty depth in their keystrokes would likely gravitate towards the HMX 1989, while those who prioritize speed and quick actuation might opt for the Aniya switch. Thus, while both switches serve different user preferences, the HMX 1989 offers a longer travel distance, and the Aniya presents a shorter, more rapid response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Game1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Game1989 for $3.29.
The PH Studio Aniya has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aniya for $4.20.
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 considering the sound profile of the HMX 1989 linear switch, it is renowned for offering a thocky auditory experience. This deep and resonant sound likely lends itself to a satisfying bass-like quality, providing a full-bodied auditory feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the PH Studio Aniya switch presents a more versatile sound profile. It is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched tones, producing a crisp and bright auditory experience that engages the user without being excessively loud. While the 1989 focuses on deeper, thocky acoustics, the Aniya strikes a balance with its sharper sound, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience as they type.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989's tactile feedback is noted to be blissful, though specific descriptors were not provided. On the other hand, the Aniya switch boasts a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. Users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation with every keystroke, likely heightened by the quality of the materials used and possibly factory lubrication. This makes the Aniya an attractive option for those who prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience, while the feel of the 1989 might still provide an engaging tactile sensation, though specifics remain unknown.
In conclusion, the comparison between the HMX 1989 and PH Studio Aniya linear switches reveals notable differences in sound and feel. The 1989 offers a deep, thocky auditory experience, while the Aniya provides a more clacky and high-pitched sound that remains pleasant. On the feel front, the Aniya shines with a creamy and polished experience, whereas the exact tactile feedback of the 1989 is not specified. Though they cater to different preferences, both switches promise enjoyable typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their acoustic and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the PH Studio Aniya linear switch should ultimately depend on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a slightly firmer feel with a lower actuation force and enjoy a thocky sound profile that resonates deep within the keyboard, then the HMX 1989 is an excellent option, especially for gaming scenarios where you need tactile feedback and precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more auditory experience with a lighter bottom-out force, the Aniya is the way to go; its creamy, polished feel and harmonious clacky sound make it an ideal fit for extended typing sessions or a more casual setup. So, consider whether you want that deep and satisfying thock or a bright, marbly resonance—and let that guide your final decision when selecting between these two high-quality linear switches.
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