PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference and typing style play crucial roles in determining the ideal choice. The PH Studio Aniya, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile that offers a pronounced clacky feel without overwhelming the user. Its Ly stem material provides a silky smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation, making each keypress enjoyable for prolonged use. On the other hand, the HMX EVA draws inspiration from the vivid colors of the iconic Evangelion Unit-01, delivering a resonant sound signature alongside a silky smooth typing feel that appeals to gamers and typists alike. Both switches present unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience; the Aniya lends itself well to those who appreciate an audible yet subtle feedback, while the EVA caters to individuals who thrive on smoothness and a distinct aesthetic appeal. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T2
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-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and HMX EVA each utilize distinct materials for their switch housings, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The Aniya features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is renowned for producing a unique sound quality that leans toward the deeper and more muted spectrum. This choice creates a sound profile that many users find pleasing, as it delivers a softer bottom-out sound and a more subtle acoustic response when releasing the key. On the other hand, the EVA opts for nylon as its housing material. This classic choice is slightly softer than POM, allowing it to absorb sound waves more effectively, resulting in a fuller sound profile that is characterized as deeper and rounder. Thus, while both switches offer rich acoustic experiences, they derive their qualities from different plastic compositions.
In terms of housing dynamics, both the Aniya and EVA exhibit a division of sound characteristics due to their distinct top and bottom housing materials. With the Aniya, both the top and bottom housings being POM means the sound signature remains consistent throughout the key press, whereby the switch produces a harmonious muted sound consistently from bottoming out to releasing. In contrast, the EVA achieves a richer sound experience by combining the properties of nylon in both the upper and lower parts of the switch. This synergy of materials contributes to the EVA’s full-bodied acoustic profile, where the bottom housing influences the deeper impact during the bottom-out and the top housing accentuates the release phase’s softer sound.
Ultimately, despite the differences in material between the Aniya and EVA, users can expect a certain level of similarity in results regarding their deep sound profiles. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying auditory experience, though they embody distinct tonal qualities influenced by their respective housing choices. In scenarios where the qualities from each housing material blend, the characteristics of the Aniya’s POM might render a more muted yet unique acoustic, while the EVA’s nylon may present a more traditional and rounded sound. The distinct sound experiences cater to varying preferences, ensuring that whichever material choice you prefer, you still encounter satisfying acoustics throughout your keyboard experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch exhibit notable similarities and slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an identical actuation force of 42 grams, making them equally light and suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Aniya has a slightly higher force of 50 grams compared to the EVA's 48 grams. This means that while both switches provide a gentle push feel for actuation, the Aniya offers a marginally heavier tactile feedback upon bottoming out. Therefore, users seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Aniya, whereas those preferring a lighter overall feel may find the EVA more appealing. Overall, both switches will deliver a similar feel during regular use due to their matching actuation forces, but the difference in bottom out force offers a bit of variety depending on the user's preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, it is evident that they differ significantly. The Aniya features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option, while the EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which classifies it as the longer switch. For gamers or users who favor quicker response times, the Aniya's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, as it allows for more rapid keystrokes. Conversely, the EVA's greater depth could provide a satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus tactile feedback.
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 EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch presents a uniquely structured auditory experience, characterized by its clacky, high-pitched resonance that strikes a perfect balance between being pronounced and pleasant. While undeniably audible, it avoids the pitfalls of excessive volume, allowing for a crisp and bright listening experience. Additionally, the switch produces a clean and marbly sound, akin to the firm impact of two polished surfaces meeting. This distinct acoustic nature can create a satisfying feedback loop for typists. In contrast, details regarding the sound profile of the HMX EVA linear switch remain unspecified; thus, its auditory characteristics are currently unknown.
When considering the tactile sensation, the Aniya switch excels in delivering a remarkably smooth typing experience. Descriptors such as creamy, polished, and silky highlight its ability to provide a buttery feel across the keys. This results in minimal resistance and seamless key travel, making long typing sessions or gaming marathons comfortable and enjoyable. As for the EVA, its tactile qualities have not been explicitly detailed, leaving its feel subjective to personal experience and exploration.
In summary, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a notable auditory and tactile experience, combining a cheerful yet controlled sound profile with an exceptionally smooth typing feel. In contrast, the HMX EVA linear switch's characteristics, particularly in terms of sound and feel, are not well-documented, presenting an intriguing yet uncertain allure for newcomers. Thus, while the Aniya provides clear benchmarks for auditory pleasure and tactile satisfaction, the EVA remains an unknown entity ripe for discovery. If you seek a specific quality, comparisons can still lead to similar results in personal preference and typing enjoyment based on individual experiences and keyboard setups.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience with a harmonious balance of clacky and clean sounds, the Aniya is an excellent pick. Its 50-gram bottom-out force and the delightful use of Ly as the stem material provide a smooth, creamy, and polished typing experience, making it perfect for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch that embodies a more resonant sound signature with a silky smooth feel, the EVA might be your better option. While it boasts a slightly lighter bottom-out force at 48 grams, its design inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion brings a unique flair to your keyboard experience. In essence, choose the Aniya for a rich auditory experience paired with smooth keystrokes, and opt for the EVA if you prioritize a resonant sound and an effortlessly smooth typing sensation.
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