PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Caramel Pudding
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Caramel Pudding offer distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts who prefer linear switches. The Aniya, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its harmonious sound profile, striking a balance between audible clackiness and a smoother typing experience. With its medium-light actuation and a stem made from Ly material, the Aniya delivers a delightful tactile response that is both polished and creamy, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic character without overwhelming volume. On the other hand, the HMX Caramel Pudding exhibits an exquisitely smooth feel and a similarly resonant, clacky signature that adds a unique touch to any keystroke. While both switches cater to users seeking linear characteristics, the Aniya leans slightly toward a more high-pitched auditory experience, whereas the Caramel Pudding promises an overall satisfying linear smoothness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Caramel Pudding both utilize unique housing materials, each contributing distinct acoustic characteristics to their respective switches. The Aniya employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, known for creating a uniquely pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted. This contrasts with the Caramel Pudding, which features nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic material in the keyboard-switch domain, providing a sound profile that is deeper and fuller due to its softer texture, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. The differing materials suggest that while both switches may provide satisfying acoustic feedback, they will achieve that through different properties inherent in their materials.
When comparing how these materials impact the overall typing experience, the Aniya's POM housings result in a sound profile that is distinctively more muted. This is particularly advantageous for users seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing depth. Conversely, the nylon used in the Caramel Pudding not only maintains a deeper sound but also brings a softer touch, enhancing the tactile feedback experienced during typing. The design choices emphasize contrasting priorities: the Aniya focuses on producing a unique, less intrusive sound, while the Caramel Pudding aims for fuller sound depth and a classic feel, appealing to those who appreciate traditional materials in switch construction.
While the Aniya and Caramel Pudding involve different materials, they can yield similar auditory and tactile experiences through the interplay of their housings. The POM material’s ability to create a muted acoustic profile combined with nylon's sound-absorbing qualities suggests that, despite their differences, users may find comparable richness in sound upon activation and release of the keys. Moreover, both models leverage their respective materials to cater to preferences for deeper sound, although achieved via different physical properties. Therefore, while some distinctions exist, the overall impact on acoustic experience can be harmonized, allowing users to enjoy deep sounds regardless of choice between POM and nylon.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch exhibit differences in actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions at work or gaming. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, appealing to those who seek a more substantial feel when typing. This difference means that the Aniya switch may offer a more comfortable experience for extended use, while the Caramel Pudding may provide the satisfying resistance desired by users who prefer a heavier switch. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch with a softer touch, the Aniya is the better choice, whereas the Caramel Pudding caters to those who appreciate a bit more heft in their key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, the Aniya switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Caramel Pudding switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users of the Aniya switch will experience a shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking quick actuation. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, if you opt for the Aniya switch, you will benefit from a more responsive feel, while the Caramel Pudding may be better suited for users who enjoy a heartier key journey.
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 HMX Caramel Pudding has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Pudding for $2.99.
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 distinctive clacky sound profile that is both pronounced and engaging without being excessively loud. This switch produces a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. Its clackiness is complemented by a bright and marbly quality, contributing to a clean and crisp sound with every keystroke. On the other hand, while specific descriptions for the HMX Caramel Pudding's sound aren't provided, it also shares a resonant and clacky signature. Consequently, users can expect a similarly lively acoustic experience, although the precise tonal characteristics remain unspecified.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya switches are celebrated for their exceptionally smooth typing experience, characterized as creamy and silky. They exhibit a medium-light actuation that feels delightful to type on, offering minimal resistance and friction, which many users find to enhance their typing comfort. Although the HMX Caramel Pudding switches do not have detailed descriptions available regarding their feel, they are nevertheless noted for their exquisite smoothness. Therefore, it stands to reason that users of both switches would enjoy a top-tier tactile experience, giving a sense of fluidity that contributes to overall satisfaction during typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya and HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches present compelling options for keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize sound and feel. With the Aniya offering a pronounced, clacky sound paired with a smooth, buttery typing experience, and the Caramel Pudding noted for its clackiness in sound and buttery feel, users can expect a unique yet enjoyable typing experience from either choice. While there are nuances in the details, those who appreciate auditory feedback and smooth keystrokes will find satisfaction with both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, your preferences for both sound and typing feel will greatly influence your decision. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and desire a typing experience that is creamy, polished, and silky, the Aniya is the better match for you, especially if you appreciate a clacky yet not overwhelmingly loud auditory profile. This makes the Aniya particularly suited for a work environment where you want to enjoy an engaging sound without it being disruptive to those around you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a slightly firmer typing experience with a medium-light bottom-out force and a more pronounced clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding switch would be your go-to choice. This switch might appeal to you if you enjoy the tactile feedback of a more resonant sound profile while still maintaining a smooth typing experience. Thus, your selection should reflect your priorities in terms of sound intensity and keystroke feel—whether you lean toward a lighter, smoother ride or a bit more resistance with an addictive auditory response.
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