PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Blue Lotus
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Blue Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya is praised for its harmonious clacky sound profile, smooth feel, and medium-light actuation, providing a pleasant typing experience for those who enjoy a creamy texture. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus stands out for its tactile intensity, swift responsiveness, and detachable light column for captivating RGB illumination, appealing to individuals who prefer a snappy and visually appealing switch. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Blue Lotus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Aniya utilizes POM top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Although the housing materials of the Aniya and the Blue Lotus differ, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The POM top and bottom housings of the Aniya create a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side. In contrast, the Blue Lotus's top housing made of modified PC & UPE Blend offers a premium feel, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize delivering a satisfying typing experience to users.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This distribution of qualities means that both the Aniya and the Blue Lotus will showcase a unique combination of sound profiles resulting from their housing materials, ultimately providing users with a customized typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Blue Lotus's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke on the Aniya. In terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams of force, while the Blue Lotus needs 65 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience with the Blue Lotus. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Aniya more comfortable for long typing sessions, while those who enjoy a heavier push feel may gravitate towards the Blue Lotus for a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer unique typing experiences catered to varying preferences in terms of typing force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Blue Lotus has a longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. A shorter travel distance can provide a faster response time, which may be preferred by gamers seeking quick actions. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for keypress sensation.
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 Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
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, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is lauded for its clacky and moderately high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is characterized by a rich and bassy sound, offering a deeper and more resonant tone to each key press. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can enjoy a diverse range of acoustic experiences based on their personal tastes and preferences.
In terms of feel, the Aniya linear switch is known for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is described as accented and snappy, providing a responsive and tactile typing experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and smoothness, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Aniya provides a clacky sound and creamy feel, the Blue Lotus offers a bassy sound and snappy feel, creating a diverse range of options for users to customize their typing experience. Whether you prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback or a heightened tactile response, both switches deliver unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Aniya and the Blue Lotus will depend on individual preference and desired typing experience, but both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and pleasant auditory experience with a light actuation, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with snappy responsiveness and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound profile, actuation force, and typing experience. Consider your preferences carefully and choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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