Bsun Akashi vs. PH Studio Aniya
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Aniya switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and PH Studio Aniya both offer unique and appealing features. The Akashi is praised for its UPE stem and hybrid housing design, creating a distinctive sound profile that is bright and crisp, yet rich and resonant. Categorized as 'Clacky,' 'Creamy,' 'Frictionless,' and more, the Akashi provides a novel typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Aniya, also a linear switch produced by BSUN, boasts a harmonious sound profile with a noticeable clacky tone. Featuring a stem made of Ly material for smoothness and medium-light actuation, it is categorized as 'High-pitched,' 'Marbly,' 'Polished,' and more. Both switches have their own merits, offering a variety of tactile and auditory experiences for users. 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
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
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 extended spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Aniya both utilize POM top housings, which are known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile with deeper tones and a relatively muted sound. This shared material choice indicates that users can expect similar sound characteristics from both switches when it comes to the top housing. However, the Akashi features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Aniya utilizes a POM bottom housing, which may result in a sound profile that is slightly different from the Akashi due to the material's properties.
In terms of typing experience, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Aniya play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Akashi contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Aniya may offer a slightly different typing experience, possibly resulting in a sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to the Akashi. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience for users looking for unique sound characteristics.
It is clear that the choice of housing materials for switches can greatly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While the Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Aniya share the use of POM top housings, their different bottom housing materials offer contrasting qualities that may cater to different preferences. The Akashi's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Aniya's POM bottom housing may result in a slightly more muted sound. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preferred sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the PH Studio Aniya linear switch, we can see that the Akashi is lighter in both aspects. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Akashi offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a smoother and easier typing feel. On the other hand, the Aniya provides a slightly heavier touch, which can give a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular in the market. Gamers often opt for switches with shorter travel distances like the Aniya for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards switches with longer travel distances like the Akashi. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is relatively small, so users can expect a similar typing experience from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
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 it comes to sound, both the Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Aniya linear switches fall under the descriptor of "clacky," which means they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Akashi offers a unique acoustic experience with its bright, crisp bottom-out sound, while the Aniya strikes a balance by leaning towards a more pronounced clacky profile that is not excessively loud. Additionally, the Aniya switch is noted to have a high-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of sharpness to the auditory experience. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying sound feedback, catering to those who enjoy a crisp and percussive typing sound.
In terms of feel, both the Akashi and Aniya switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. Described as "creamy" and "polished," these switches provide a silky sensation when typing, with minimal resistance and smooth key travel. The use of specific materials or factory lubrication contributes to the frictionless and polished feel of both switches, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the Aniya switch is complemented by a medium-light actuation force, making each keystroke a delightfully easy and effortless endeavor. Overall, whether you choose the Akashi or Aniya switch, you can expect a premium typing feel that enhances your overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Aniya linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi provides a resonant sound experience with a creamy and easy-to-press feel, the Aniya balances a more pronounced clacky sound with a silky and polished typing sensation. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured that you'll get a premium and satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the PH Studio Aniya linear switch, you should take into account the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Akashi with 43 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a resonant and bright sound profile, the Akashi's unique design may be appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force at 50 grams and a balanced sound profile that leans towards a pronounced clacky sound, the Aniya could be a better choice. In terms of feel, both switches offer a creamy and smooth typing experience, but if you specifically enjoy a snappy and frictionless feel, the Akashi may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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