PH Studio Aniya vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Aniya switch, known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound while still maintaining a pleasant auditory experience. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow switch from Aflion is gaining rapid traction for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, these switches provide a balanced typing experience. 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
N/A
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, giving it a unique visual appeal. On the other hand, the Aniya's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and pleasing sound profile, while the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom components. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon housing in the Cloudy Shadow, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. In contrast, the top housing, like the POM housing in the Aniya, influences the sound when a key is released. This division of housing materials allows for a more nuanced and differentiated typing experience, showcasing the unique characteristics of each material in different aspects of the switch's sound and feel.
Despite their differences, both the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience. While the POM housing of the Aniya creates a unique sound profile, the polycarbonate housing of the Cloudy Shadow delivers a sharper and clearer sound. The nylon housing in the Cloudy Shadow provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Aniya. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic design, as both options offer distinctive qualities that can elevate your typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In comparison, the Cloudy Shadow has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the Aniya, while users who prefer a firmer push for a more pronounced typing experience may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. Overall, the Aniya offers a lighter typing experience compared to the medium-heavy feel of the Cloudy Shadow.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Cloudy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Cloudy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloudy Shadow for $3.91.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature, with a low-pitched and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced sound, the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced and moderate sound profile that is less intrusive. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, catering to different preferences and environments, with the Aniya being more lively and the Cloudy Shadow being more subdued.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is praised for its remarkably smooth sensation, attributed to the use of Ly as the stem material. This results in a creamy and silky typing experience, where keystrokes feel effortless and glide with ease. In comparison, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle feel that is approachable to most users. While the Aniya boasts a polished and refined feel, the Cloudy Shadow offers a safe middle-ground zone of typing comfort. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch provide unique qualities in both sound and feel. The Aniya excels in delivering a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, paired with a creamy and silky typing experience, making it a vibrant choice for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow offers a neutral sound signature with a bouncy and mild feel, suitable for those seeking a balanced and approachable typing experience. Both switches bring innovation and quality to the mechanical keyboard market, offering a range of options for users to personalize their typing setup to their liking. Regardless of the choice between these two switches, users can expect satisfying results that align with their preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a more pronounced clacky sound profile that leans towards a higher-pitched tone alongside a remarkably smooth and creamy feel, then the Aniya is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound signature with a bouncy feel due to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience, then the Cloudy Shadow would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your preference for sound profile, actuation force, and typing feel will determine which of these two switches is the better choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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