PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, both of which are linear switches known for their distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Aniya, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its harmonious balance of sound, producing a pronounced yet pleasingly clacky tone that adds character without overwhelming the senses. Its medium-light actuation, paired with a smooth Ly stem, offers an engaging and delightful keystroke experience. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g provides a bouncier and slightly heavier feel, making it perfect for those who seek a more robust typing experience paired with a bright, clacky sound profile. While the Aniya caters to users who appreciate a versatile and smooth typing sensation, the Cloud is ideal for enthusiasts who favor a more substantial feedback with a similarly silky feel. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 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 Cloud - 63.5g present intriguing contrasts and similarities, both contributing richly to the sound profile of their respective switches. The Aniya uses POM (Polyoxymethylene) in both its top and bottom housings, which is known for creating a more muted, deeper sound. This is indicative of POM's ability to produce a unique sonorous quality that is pleasing to typists who prefer subtler feedback while typing. In contrast, the Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon is a classic material in switch design, renowned for its slightly softer properties that promote a deeper and fuller sound. While both materials manage to elicit a sound profile that is deeper in tone, the use of POM in the Aniya yields a more 'muted' characteristic, whereas the nylon in the Cloud—though it offers a similarly deep tone—creates a rounder resonance.
Despite differences in composition, both series exhibit sound-absorbing qualities that enrich the auditory experience. The Cloud's nylon, being a softer plastic, drastically absorbs sound and translates to an overall more pronounced roundness and depth in its sound profile. Similarly, the Aniya's POM adds a distinct charm to the auditory feedback, yielding a satisfying thock as keys bottom out. With each switch, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, so while the materials differ, the emphasis on deeper sound quality remains consistent across both designs. This means that, regardless of the housing material, users will enjoy distinct sound profiles, shaped by the inherent characteristics of POM versus nylon.
In terms of user experience, the interplay of the different materials used in the Aniya and the Cloud—while creating distinct sound profiles—can lead to surprisingly similar tactile feedback when typing. Both the muted characteristics of the Aniya's POM and the rounded tone of the Cloud's nylon contribute to ultimately creating closer sound experiences. Thus, users seeking a balanced combination of deep acoustics and satisfying keystrokes can find a calculated equilibrium within either switch design. Whether one opts for the signature sound of POM or the classic essence of nylon, the resulting typing experience harmonizes around a pleasing auditory satisfaction drawn from these materials' unique attributes.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch differ significantly in both actuation force and bottom out force, catering to distinct typing preferences. The Aniya features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Cloud - 63.5g has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback and a stronger push feel. As such, the Aniya is the lighter option, while the Cloud - 63.5g provides a heftier experience. Those seeking a more effortless keystroke should choose the Aniya, while users looking for a firmer response may gravitate towards the Cloud - 63.5g.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, there is a clear distinction in their measurements. The Aniya has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Cloud - 63.5g features a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the Aniya provides a more responsive feel, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Cloud - 63.5g, with its greater travel distance, may offer a more satisfying and deeper keystroke for those who prefer a less abrupt experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: those who favor quicker actions might opt for the shorter travel distance of the Aniya, whereas those who appreciate more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the longer travel of the Cloud - 63.5g.
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 Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g 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
When comparing the sound profile of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch, both exhibit a clacky and high-pitched characteristic. The Aniya offers a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and very much percussive. While it leans towards a pronounced clack, it maintains an auditory balance that avoids being overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g switch similarly delivers a bright and lively sound, making it appealing for enthusiasts who appreciate an engaging auditory experience. Though the Cloud variant is a heavier switch, both switches align closely in delivering an enjoyable and crisp auditory feedback that might enhance your typing sessions, hinting at a shared appreciation for a more upbeat sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, described as creamy, polished, and silky. The use of Ly as the stem material enhances the tactile feedback, allowing for a delightful typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Cloud - 63.5g switch also offers a creamy feel, ensuring a smooth and buttery typing sensation. However, it introduces a bouncy characteristic, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that delivers livelier engagement. While both switches excel in smoothness, the Aniya focuses on a refined glide, whereas the Cloud - 63.5g incorporates a touch of elasticity, appealing to different types of users depending on their preferences for typing dynamics.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switches provide strong auditory and tactile experiences that cater to distinct tastes. With their clacky and high-pitched sounds, both switches deliver an enjoyable auditory ambiance, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of character in their typing. While the Aniya offers a silky and smooth typing sensation ideal for refined users, the Cloud - 63.5g emphasizes a livelier and bouncier feedback that might resonate more with those who crave an energetic feel. The decision between them ultimately lies in personal preference, as either option promises a quality experience while ensuring a unique flavor in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, consider your preferences in typing feel, actuation force, and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter actuation force with a smooth and polished typing experience, the Aniya’s 50-gram bottom-out force makes it a fantastic choice, especially for long typing sessions or casual gaming. Its clacky sound profile provides an enjoyable auditory experience without overwhelming noise, making it suitable for quieter environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance and enjoy a medium-heavy keystroke, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is your go-to option. It delivers a more pronounced feedback with a delightful bouncy sensation, perfect for decisive typists or gamers who thrive on tactile responsiveness. Its crisper sound adds to the excitement of typing, making it ideal if you favor a brighter acoustic presence. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences and intended use, whether seeking a smooth, lighter touch or a satisfying, heavier keystroke.
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