PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Daybreak mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aniya, known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound that is not excessively loud, providing a pleasant auditory experience. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke on the Aniya is smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Daybreak offers a heftier typing experience with a solid 67g actuation force, perfect for those who prefer a more significant touch. Despite the heavy actuation force, the Daybreak switches operate quietly, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and the Daybreak depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Daybreak both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Aniya utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Daybreak features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material highlights how the choice of housing can significantly impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Despite their differences, both the Aniya and the Daybreak demonstrate how housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound characteristics of a switch. The use of POM in the Aniya's top and bottom housing creates a consistent deep and pleasing sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Daybreak offers a fuller and deeper typing experience. These contrasting sound profiles showcase how different housing materials can alter the tactile feedback and acoustics of a switch, catering to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
When comparing the Aniya's POM housing to the Daybreak's polycarbonate and nylon housing, it is evident that each material brings unique qualities to the switches. While the use of POM in the Aniya results in a more muted sound profile, the Daybreak's polycarbonate and nylon housing offer sharper and fuller typing experiences, respectively. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying tactile feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience for users seeking a specific sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and the Daybreak will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch both offer different experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Daybreak switch has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. For individuals who enjoy a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Aniya switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more forceful keystroke may opt for the Daybreak switch for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel for the user.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Aniya has a shorter travel distance compared to the Daybreak. The Aniya's 3.2 mm travel distance may provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Daybreak's longer 3.8 mm travel distance may offer a more substantial key press experience that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and key press 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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 profile, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is best represented by its clacky and slightly high-pitched characteristics, offering a sharp and percussive sound with a moderate level of loudness. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound, providing a quieter typing experience suitable for environments where noise reduction is critical. The choice between the two switches will heavily depend on personal preference for sound, with the Aniya offering a more pronounced and vibrant auditory feedback while the Daybreak delivers a more subdued and mellow tone.
Regarding the tactile feel, the Aniya linear switch is praised for its creamy and polished characteristics, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience that feels buttery and effortless. The use of high-quality materials and possible factory lubrication contribute to the silky sensation when typing on Aniya switches. Conversely, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and sleek typing feel with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the decision coming down to individual preferences for specific typing sensations.
Overall, when comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct sound and feel characteristics to cater to different preferences. While the Aniya leans towards a more clacky and high-pitched sound with a creamy and buttery feel, the Daybreak provides a muted, low-pitched sound with polished smoothness. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and typing sensations, both of which can greatly impact the overall keyboarding experience. If you enjoy one quality over the other in each switch, you can expect similar results from each in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a smoother and lighter actuation with a more pronounced clacky sound, the Aniya may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force with a quieter operation, the Daybreak could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. Happy typing!
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