PH Studio Aniya vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 28g
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options. The PH Studio Aniya linear switch stands out with its harmonious balance of sound profile, delivering a pleasant auditory experience that leans toward a clacky yet not overwhelmingly loud sound. Manufactured by BSUN, the Aniya features a medium-light actuation force coupled with a smooth feel thanks to the Ly material used in its stem, making it enjoyable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch is distinguished by its exceptionally light actuation force and bright, crisp sound profile, making it incredibly responsive and perfect for those who prefer rapid and precise keystrokes. While the Aniya may be favored for its creamy and polished feel, the Chiikawa appeals to those who appreciate a more energetic typing experience with a high-pitched resonance. Both switches offer distinct advantages, catering to different typing preferences and styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
28g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
34g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g, distinct differences arise in both the top and bottom housing components, influencing their overall acoustic profiles. The Aniya features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile, while the Chiikawa employs a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper and crisper sound. This fundamental difference in materials suggests that users seeking a more muted auditory experience may prefer the Aniya, whereas the Chiikawa would likely satisfy those who enjoy a clearer and more resonant sound, especially in RGB lighting conditions where the translucence of polycarbonate shines.
Examining the bottom housing, the Aniya uses a POM material, which, similar to its top housing, contributes to a cohesive sound profile that is pleasing yet subdued. On the other hand, the Chiikawa utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which traditionally absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound experience. Here again, the contrasting materials play a critical role, with the softness of nylon lending an additional layer of depth to the Chiikawa's auditory profile compared to the Aniya’s consistent sound characteristics derived from POM. This comparison highlights how changes in materials can significantly affect the sensory experience while typing, making these switches unique despite both aiming to provide satisfying tactile feedback.
Ultimately, while the Aniya and the Chiikawa - 28g feature differing materials that distinctly affect their sound profiles, a player could achieve relatively similar results in terms of tactile feedback by adjusting their typing technique and cushion purpose. The combined effects of the materials can be balanced; for example, if a user dials in their preferred typing style on either switch, they may find a way to optimize their experience to suit their needs. By recognizing how the combinations of top and bottom housing impact the acoustic signature and tactile feel, enthusiasts can navigate between the two options, utilizing technique and perception to appreciate the unique blend of sounds each model provides.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch present notable differences in their force characteristics. The Aniya features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively lightweight compared to traditional switches. In contrast, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g boasts an actuation force of only 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, positioning it as the lighter option overall. While the Aniya requires more force to actuate and bottom out, the Chiikawa's lower forces can make it more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as less effort is needed to register keystrokes. For those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing, the heavier forces of the Aniya may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation feel and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, the Aniya features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Chiikawa - 28g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, classifying it as the longer switch. This difference in travel distance may influence user preferences: those who favor a more responsive feel may find the Aniya's shorter distance more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation and potentially faster response times—an advantage for gamers. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper key press may benefit from the Chiikawa - 28g’s longer travel distance, which can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback that some find more satisfying. Overall, the choice between these switches will largely hinge on a user's preference for either responsiveness or depth in their typing experience.
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 Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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
The auditory experience of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound profile that strikes a balance between being engaging and not overwhelmingly loud. This results in a pleasant typing experience that is both sharp and resonant, creating a clean auditory feedback that enhances the satisfaction of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch has a notably bright sound profile along with its very light actuation force, which likely results in a more elevated and crisp auditory response when typing. Though detailed descriptions are unavailable for the sound of the Chiikawa switch, it's reasonable to infer that it may also contribute to a similar engaging typing experience, albeit with its distinct characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is described with a range of terms that suggest an exceptionally smooth experience, such as creamy, polished, and silky. This suggests a buttery, refined keystroke that should offer a delightful tactile journey with minimal resistance during typing. The Chiikawa - 28g's feel is less documented, leaving an unknown quality about its tactile response. However, the very light actuation force implies that it could feel exceptionally responsive, allowing for quick and effortless key presses, which may cater well to those favoring a lightweight and fluid typing style.
Overall, both switches present engaging auditory experiences, albeit with their unique sound characteristics, while the Aniya excels in smooth and delightful keystrokes that are pleasing to the touch. The Chiikawa - 28g, though less documented, seems poised to offer a light and responsive typing feel, complementing its bright sound profile. Newcomers will appreciate how both options cater to different preferences, ensuring that whether it's the softer clack of the Aniya or the crisp response of the Chiikawa, users can find joy in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier keystroke with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, along with a sound profile that leans toward a smoother, but still clacky experience, the Aniya is an excellent choice. Its creamy and polished feel makes it ideal for those who enjoy a refined typing experience that is satisfying to the touch. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter, more responsive touch with a bottom-out force of just 34 grams, the Chiikawa - 28g would be your best bet. Its bright and crisp sound profile will appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. As such, if you type quickly or tend to fatigue easily, the lighter actuation of the Chiikawa is likely to enhance your experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in their own right, so consider your typing style and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard when making a decision.
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