PH Studio Aniya vs. Bsun Pine
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Bsun Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch offer unique typing experiences for users. The Aniya linear switch is praised for its balanced sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being excessively loud. With its smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the Bsun Pine tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing clear-cut feedback and fast action. While the Aniya switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience, the Pine switch delivers an invigorating and snappy feel. 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
45g
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
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Bsun Pine differ significantly in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Aniya's POM top housing provides a deeper and relatively muted sound, creating a pleasing and unique typing experience. In contrast, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature. This difference in sound profile can influence the overall typing feel and experience for users of these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the contrast continues between the Aniya's POM bottom housing and the Pine's nylon bottom housing. The POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience of the Aniya switch. In comparison, the nylon bottom housing of the Pine switch absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in sound characteristics can play a significant role in the overall feel and sound of the switches during typing sessions.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the choice of housing materials in switches also plays a crucial role. While the Aniya's POM housing may not be ideal for those looking for a brighter sound profile, it offers a unique and pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials provide a sharper and deeper sound, respectively, catering to different preferences among users. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing experience, and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and Bsun Pine tactile switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Pine switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Aniya switch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Pine switch for its heavier forces. Both switches offer varying levels of resistance, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Bsun Pine tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Aniya offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Pine switch provides a bit more depth during key presses, which could be preferred by those who find shorter travel distances too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the specific feel each user is looking for.
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 Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 described as having a clacky and slightly high-pitched profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the BSUN Pine tactile switch has no specific sound descriptors mentioned, so it's safe to assume that they may produce a quieter or different sound compared to the Aniya. However, both switches offer a pleasant typing sound, ensuring an enjoyable auditory experience overall.
In terms of feel, the Aniya linear switch is known for its creamy and polished sensation, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The use of Ly as the stem material enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, making it feel like gliding effortlessly across the keys. Meanwhile, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is described as being accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a pronounced tactile feedback and a reactive feel with each keypress. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the BSUN Pine tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya provides a clacky sound and a creamy, polished feel, while the Pine offers a sharp and tactile feedback with an invigorating and snappy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a louder sound profile with a smooth feel, the Aniya may be the choice for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a sharp tactile feedback with a more pronounced keypress sensation, the Pine could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and are worth considering based on your personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the BSUN Pine tactile switch, you should choose the Aniya if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, clacky sound profile with a medium-light actuation. This switch offers a creamy and polished typing feel that enhances the overall smoothness of your typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Pine if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharper tactile bump for a more direct and pronounced typing experience. The Pine switch provides an invigorating and sharp feel with distinct feedback and quick bottom-out action. Ultimately, your choice between the Aniya and Pine will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and actuation force in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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