PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Ash Gray
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Ash Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Aniya, known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, provides a clacky yet not overwhelmingly loud auditory experience with a smooth feel and medium-light actuation. On the other hand, the Ash Gray switch is designed to deliver a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, offering a light touch with a crisp actuation and a delightful blend of tactile feedback. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and KTT Ash Gray switches offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The POM top housing of the Aniya creates a deep and muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Aniya offers a similarly deep and muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Aniya and Ash Gray switches, both types of switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a varied experience when typing on the switches. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, offering a different auditory experience.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and KTT Ash Gray switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound profile and feel, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The POM and nylon housing materials of the Aniya and Ash Gray switches, respectively, cater to different sound preferences, with POM providing a more muted sound and nylon offering a fuller sound. The differences in top and bottom housing materials allow for a varied typing experience, with each material contributing to different aspects of the sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams compared to the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch with a force of 38 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams, while the Ash Gray needs 53 grams. Overall, the Aniya is lighter in actuation force but heavier in bottom out force compared to the Ash Gray. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Aniya switch, while those looking for a slightly more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ash Gray switch. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, with the Aniya being more on the light side and the Ash Gray falling in the medium-light category. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range preferred by many users, with the Aniya being on the shorter end and the Ash Gray on the longer end. Gamers may lean towards the Aniya for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper keystroke may opt for the Ash Gray. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, which provides a satisfying auditory experience without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the Aniya leans towards a sharper and crisper sound, the Ash Gray provides a more moderate and balanced sound experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their auditory preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aniya is praised for its smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material. This results in a comfortable and effortless keystroke, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Ash Gray is noted for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and minimal force activation. The mild and approachable feel of the Ash Gray switch ensures a comfortable typing experience for a wide range of users. Both switches provide unique tactile sensations, with the Aniya focusing on a silky and polished typing experience, while the Ash Gray prioritizes ease of use and low-impact typing.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya excels in providing a slightly sharper and smoother sound profile, coupled with a creamy and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Ash Gray offers a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, making it suitable for a wider range of users. Whether you prefer a more pronounced sound and a silky typing experience like the Aniya, or a neutral sound and easy-to-press feel like the Ash Gray, both switches provide excellent options to consider for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, creamy feel, the Aniya switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild feel, the Ash Gray switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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