PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, one notable difference is in their sound profiles. The Aniya is praised for its harmonious balance, leaning towards a clacky sound that is not excessively loud but still pronounced. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow is known for its distinctively clacky sound with resonant audio feedback. The Aniya offers a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, while the Cream Yellow provides a bouncy typing experience with its lengthened spring. Both switches have their unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Cream Yellow switches offer distinct sound profiles and characteristics. The Aniya features a POM top housing, known for creating a pleasing and deep sound with muted tones. In contrast, the Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Despite both materials being plastic, the difference in stiffness between POM and polycarbonate leads to varying sound characteristics, making each switch unique in its auditory experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Aniya utilizes POM which again contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials adds to the overall typing experience of each switch, with the Aniya offering a unique sound profile thanks to its POM bottom housing while the Cream Yellow provides a different tactile feel and sound due to its nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches impacts not only the sound profile but also the overall typing experience. While each switch may utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material combine to create a cohesive typing experience. Whether it be the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate in the Cream Yellow or the deep and muted tones of POM in the Aniya, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall feel and sound of the switch. Ultimately, the choice between POM, polycarbonate, or nylon housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, the Aniya is the lighter of the two. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the Aniya easier to press down initially. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Aniya has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making the Cream Yellow heavier in terms of fully pressing the key down. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Aniya may be the better choice, as it requires less force to initiate a keystroke. On the other hand, those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may opt for the Cream Yellow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. The Aniya would provide a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a better option for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press with a bit more depth. Overall, while the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minor, it may impact the overall typing experience depending on individual preferences.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 somewhat high-pitched sound profile, offering a pronounced yet pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is also described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. While both switches share the clacky attribute, the Aniya leans more towards a balanced sound profile, while the Cream Yellow emphasizes a distinctively clacky tone with its unique design features.
As for feel, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing feel. The Cream Yellow, on the other hand, is highlighted for its bouncy typing feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback when typing. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Aniya excels in providing a silky sensation with reduced friction, while the Cream Yellow focuses on delivering a lively and rebounding feel to the keys.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch stands out for its balanced sound profile, smooth feel, and medium-light actuation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a harmonious typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switch offers a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, catering to users looking for a unique and lively typing experience. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring satisfying keystrokes with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, consider your preferences in sound and feel. If you appreciate a harmonious balance in sound profile with a slightly clacky sound and a smooth typing experience, opt for the Aniya switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound aesthetics and a creamy typing experience or prefer a bouncier feel when typing. Make your decision based on what aligns best with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
