PH Studio Aniya vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch are both excellent options to consider. The Aniya switch is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, typing on the Aniya switch is a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switch boasts a light operating force of 45g, providing a relaxed and comfortable tactile typing experience. Its mellow and lower-pitched sound profile adds to a subtle auditory experience. While both switches offer unique characteristics and advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
ABS
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Everglide Crystal Violet differ in terms of the materials used. The Aniya features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal Violet utilizes ABS top and bottom housings, resulting in a low-pitched sound profile when typing. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between POM and ABS housings will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of availability and common usage, the housing materials of the Aniya and Crystal Violet also differ. POM, while commonly used in keycaps, is not as frequently used in switch housings, making the Aniya stand out in terms of material choice. On the other hand, ABS is a more commonly used plastic in keycaps but is considered relatively rare in switch housings, giving the Crystal Violet a unique appeal. This distinction in material choice may impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, providing users with a varied typing experience depending on their preference for POM or ABS housings.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Aniya and Crystal Violet offer pleasing and unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The deeper and more muted sound profile of the Aniya's POM housings may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience, while the low-pitched sound profile of the Crystal Violet's ABS housings may appeal to those looking for a distinct sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and the rarity of the housing materials used.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch. The Aniya requires 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Crystal Violet needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. The Aniya is lighter in both aspects, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as in office or gaming settings. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet has slightly heavier forces, offering a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the Aniya provides a lighter touch, while the Crystal Violet offers a medium-light typing experience. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Aniya being the lighter option and the Crystal Violet being slightly heavier.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya offers a slightly quicker and more responsive typing experience compared to the Crystal Violet, which provides a bit more depth and cushioning with its longer travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Aniya for its faster response times, while those who prefer a more pronounced keypress may lean towards the Crystal Violet. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, offering a noticeable and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch presents a more mellow and lower-pitched sound, creating a gentle and non-intrusive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Aniya being more pronounced and clacky, while the Crystal Violet leans towards a softer and more relaxed sound profile.
When it comes to feel, both the Aniya and Crystal Violet switches are described as offering a creamy typing experience. This indicates a smooth and buttery sensation when pressing the keys, ensuring a pleasant and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Aniya switch is highlighted for its use of Ly as the stem material, resulting in a remarkably smooth feel with a medium-light actuation, making every keystroke delightful. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switch is noted for its light operating force of 45g, offering a comfortable and gentle tactile typing experience. Both switches provide a polished and smooth typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience for the user.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aniya provides a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the Crystal Violet offers a mellow and gentle sound with a light tactile feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for users. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can expect distinct but equally enjoyable results with these mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Aniya if you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a medium-light actuation force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and delightful typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Crystal Violet if you lean towards a mellow and low-pitched sound profile with a light operating force of 45 grams, offering a gentle and comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so your choice should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel. Happy typing!
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