PH Studio Aniya vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Aniya switch is known for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. It boasts a smooth feel with medium-light actuation, providing a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Fairy switch from Akko is ideal for office settings due to its refined lubrication for a smooth typing experience and medium weight for a satisfying press. While the Aniya switch offers a more audible and tactile experience, the Fairy switch focuses on a quieter and more comfortable 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko Fairy switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Aniya featuring POM top and bottom housings and the Fairy using nylon for both top and bottom housings. In terms of sound, the POM housings of the Aniya create a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the nylon housings of the Fairy elicit a fuller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. Both switches offer a pleasing typing experience, but the Aniya may provide a slightly different sound compared to the Fairy due to the differences in material properties.
While the POM top and bottom housings of the Aniya switch may provide a unique and pleasing sound profile, the nylon top and bottom housings of the Akko Fairy also offer a deep and full sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for a duller sound that is rounder in tone, while the POM material in the Aniya switch creates a more muted sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound characteristics. It's interesting to note how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
In terms of construction, the POM top housing of the Aniya switch and the nylon top housing of the Akko Fairy will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing materials of both switches will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This split in qualities between the top and bottom housings can lead to a different typing experience for each switch. Whether the preference lies with a deeper and muted sound profile of the POM housings or the fuller and rounder sound of the nylon housings, both the Aniya and the Fairy switches offer distinct qualities that can cater to individual preferences in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya is lighter in both aspects. The Aniya requires 42 grams of actuation force and 50 grams of bottom out force, while the Fairy demands 50 grams of actuation force and 60 grams of bottom out force. This means that the Aniya provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Fairy. For those who prefer a more effortless typing feel, the Aniya would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Fairy offers a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the actuation and bottom out force desired for an optimal typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to some users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Fairy switch to be slightly more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for key feel 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 Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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 characterized by a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. This sound profile is complemented by a medium-light actuation, contributing to a satisfying typing sound without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a muted sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound, the Fairy provides a more subtle and gentle sound output, catering to different preferences in a workspace.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is esteemed for its creamy and polished typing experience. The smooth and buttery sensation of the Aniya switch, combined with the use of Ly as the stem material, results in an effortless keystroke feel that glides across the keys with ease. In contrast, the Akko Fairy linear switch also offers a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Fairy switch provides a mild and subtle typing experience, making it approachable and comfortable for extended use in professional settings.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a creamy, polished typing feel, offering a harmonious balance of auditory and tactile experiences. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch caters to a quieter workspace with its muted sound profile and polished feel, making it a suitable choice for office environments. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant and personalized typing experience for users. If you prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound and a smooth, buttery feel, the Aniya switch would be beneficial. Conversely, if you seek a quieter sound and a mild, polished feel, the Fairy switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to individual preference in sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Akko Fairy linear switch, you should first consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth and medium-light actuation, then the Aniya switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a factory-applied lubrication for smooth key presses and a comfortable medium weight, then the Akko Fairy switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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