PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch are both popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience. The Aniya is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, offering a pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make typing a delight. On the other hand, the Cheese switch stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light feel, providing a satisfying clacky and crispy sound signature. While both switches have their own distinct qualities, such as the Aniya's Creamy and High-pitched characteristics and the Cheese's lack of specific categorization, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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 housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Cheese both contribute to creating a unique sound profile for the switches. The Aniya uses POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deep and relatively muted sound. In comparison, the Cheese utilizes nylon for both housings, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. Despite the difference in materials, both switches aim to provide a pleasing and distinct typing experience through their housing choices.
However, when examining the specifics of the top and bottom housings in each switch, there are notable differences in sound and feel. The POM top housing of the Aniya contributes to the sound when a key is released, while the POM bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cheese influences the sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. These differences highlight how each housing material can play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience of a switch.
Ultimately, while the Aniya and the Cheese may have different housing materials, they both prioritize creating a unique and satisfying sound profile for users. Whether it's the deep and muted tones of POM in the Aniya or the fuller and rounder sound of nylon in the Cheese, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their carefully selected housing materials. By understanding how each housing material impacts the sound and feel of a switch, keyboard enthusiasts can choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the HMX Cheese linear switch which has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams while the Cheese requires 46 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. Users looking for a slightly heavier push may find the Aniya to be the better option due to its higher bottom out force. However, those who prefer a slightly lighter touch may lean towards the Cheese switch. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may provide users with varying typing experiences, allowing them to choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Cheese switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya switch. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but for some users, it can make a difference in the typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a faster response time and a shorter travel distance, the Aniya switch would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a longer travel distance, the Cheese switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing/gaming style.
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 Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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 more clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that is not excessively loud. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch boasts a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature with ultra-light switches, offering a unique sound compared to the Aniya. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Aniya leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound and the Cheese being lighter and potentially quieter.
Moving on to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is known for its creamy and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that is likened to gliding effortlessly across the keys. The use of Ly as the stem material enhances the smoothness and overall feel of the switch, making each keystroke a delight. Conversely, the HMX Cheese linear switch is described as unparalleled in smoothness, providing a pristine typing experience. While the specific feel descriptors for the Cheese switch are unknown, its ultra-light nature suggests a potentially lighter and smoother typing experience compared to the Aniya.
Overall, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch provide unique sound profiles and exceptional typing experiences. While the Aniya offers a more pronounced clacky sound and a creamy, polished feel, the Cheese stands out with its satisfying clacky sound and unparalleled smoothness. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different typing experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the Aniya and the Cheese will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a more pronounced clacky sound profile, along with a smooth feeling keystroke, then the Aniya switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-light switch with a satisfying clacky sound signature and a pristine typing experience, then the Cheese switch may be more aligned with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, bottom out force, and typing experience. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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