PH Studio Aniya vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya, a linear switch, and the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Aniya boasts a harmonious balance in sound profile with a more pronounced clacky sound that is not excessively loud, creating a pleasant auditory experience. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make every keystroke a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Carrot is known for its bouncy tactile experience provided by a long, two-stage spring. Additionally, this switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that adds to its overall appeal. While both switches share some similar characteristics such as being clacky and marbly, they each have distinct qualities that make them stand out. However, let's delve deeper into their features and nuances to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Carrot, one major difference is seen in the top housing. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which is especially useful for enhancing RGB lighting effects. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between POM and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired aesthetic.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Aniya and the Carrot showcase another disparity in material choice. The Aniya's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, emphasizing the tactile feedback of the switch. In contrast, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound profile, absorbing more sound and providing a different typing experience. The difference in sound profiles between POM and nylon highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in switch design to achieve the desired typing feel and auditory feedback.
Overall, the choice between POM and nylon for the top and bottom housings of a switch can greatly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While POM is praised for its deep and pleasing sound in both the top and bottom housings of the Aniya, nylon offers a fuller and rounder sound in the Carrot's bottom housing. Understanding the qualities each housing material brings, such as stiffness and sound absorption, can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and typing feel. Ultimately, the differences between POM and nylon contribute to the overall performance and user experience of switches like the Aniya and the Carrot.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall on the lighter end of the force spectrum. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Carrot switch is slightly lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Aniya switch. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for extended periods of typing or gaming, both switches would provide similar results due to their relatively low force requirements. However, those looking for a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Aniya switch with slightly higher force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it is clear that the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the Carrot's 4 mm. This means that the Aniya offers a quicker response time for users who prefer a more immediate feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Carrot provides a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more traditional feel when typing. Both switches still fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users seeking faster responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and response time.
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 Aflion Carrot has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Carrot for $3.57.
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
In terms of sound, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch are described as having a clacky sound profile. However, the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound, while the Carrot offers a mid-pitched and firm sound. This difference in sound profile can provide users with unique auditory experiences based on their preference for sound intensity and pitch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery key presses that effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Carrot switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing feel, providing users with a lively sensation and rebound when keys are pressed. This distinction in tactile feedback can cater to different preferences for typing dynamics, with the Aniya focusing on a polished and refined feel, while the Carrot emphasizes a spring-like and elastic feedback.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While both switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound compared to the mid-pitched firm sound of the Carrot. In terms of feel, the Aniya provides a creamy and silky typing experience, while the Carrot offers a bouncy and responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound intensity, pitch, and tactile feedback, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their unique typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, you should consider the sound and feel preferences you have for your typing experience. If you prefer a more clacky and pronounced sound profile with a smooth and buttery typing feel, the Aniya linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy tactile experience with a firm and mid-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve, whether it be a smoother and quieter one with the Aniya switch or a more tactile and lively one with the Carrot switch.
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