PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX FJ400 are two linear options that each bring their unique characteristics to the table. The Aniya, crafted by BSUN, is renowned for its engaging and balanced clacky sound profile that leans toward a more pronounced auditory experience, yet remains pleasantly moderate in volume. Its Ly stem material contributes to a remarkably smooth keystroke and medium-light actuation, making it a joy to type on. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 presents itself as the middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, providing a well-balanced sound profile that caters to users seeking a neutral auditory experience. While both switches offer a linear design appealing to typing enthusiasts, the Aniya excels in delivering a lively auditory feedback, while the FJ400 offers a more subdued sound that may appeal to those preferring a quieter environment. 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
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
T2
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
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
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX FJ400, it's notable that both switches use POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their top housings, which sets a similar foundation for sound quality. POM is recognized for creating a sound profile that is uniquely pleasing, characterized by deeper tones and a relatively muted output. This shared characteristic suggests that users can expect comparable auditory experiences when activating either switch. The consistent sound performance derived from the POM top housing of both the Aniya and FJ400 enhances their compatibility for those seeking unified auditory feedback across different switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly, which introduces distinct nuances to each switch's overall sound profile and tactile feedback. The Aniya features a POM bottom housing, which continues the theme of richness and muted sounds, contributing to a uniform acoustic profile. Conversely, the FJ400 utilizes nylon for its bottom housing—a material often associated with classic switch designs. Nylon's inherent properties, being softer and more sound-absorbent than POM, help produce a deeper and fuller sound. This difference means that while both switches exhibit muted qualities, the FJ400 may feel slightly rounder in terms of auditory response, thanks to its nylon bottom.
Ultimately, the interaction of these different housing materials shapes the overall experience when using each switch. While both top housings are the same and provide a consistent auditory output, the unique bottom housing of each switch adds variation. The Aniya, entirely composed of POM, delivers a straightforward consistent sound, while the FJ400's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller experience, particularly felt during keypresses. Therefore, even though the top housings will yield similar acoustic results, the tactile and sound differences driven by the bottom housings will enrich the user's tactile experience, making each switch feel distinct despite their shared top material.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aniya features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the FJ400 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel favored by those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the Aniya is the lighter option overall, while the FJ400 is the heavier switch. This difference in force characteristics will impact user experience significantly, with the lighter Aniya facilitating longer usage without fatigue, while the heavier FJ400 offers a more tactile feedback during each keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Aniya has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the FJ400 features a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference means that those opting for the Aniya may appreciate a quicker response time, aligning with the preferences of gamers who favor shorter travel distances for faster actions. In contrast, the FJ400's longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a deeper feel when pressing keys, providing a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, if you're seeking responsiveness, the Aniya would be the better choice, whereas those who prefer a more pronounced key engagement might lean towards the FJ400.
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 FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is characterized by a pronounced clacky profile that delivers a sharp and crisp auditory experience. While it maintains a balance that avoids being excessively loud, the clacky nature of the switch can still captivate those who appreciate a more impactful sound with every keystroke. In contrast, the sound profile of the HMX FJ400 linear switch is more neutral, described as a middle ground within the lineup, which suggests it offers a balanced and less conspicuous acoustic experience. A user's choice of board and keycaps can heavily influence the sounding characteristics, so while you may expect a cleaner sound from the FJ400, a custom setup could yield interesting results.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch excels with an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Users can expect a creamy and silky touch due to the high-quality Ly stem material used in its construction, making each keystroke feel almost effortless. This smoothness can significantly enhance typing comfort, reducing fatigue during extended use. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the HMX FJ400 linear switch remain absent, leaving potential buyers in the dark regarding tactile resistance, actuation force, and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, if you're drawn to a typing experience that is both smooth and has an engaging sound, the PH Studio Aniya offers an appealing choice with its clacky sound profile and silky feel. Meanwhile, the HMX FJ400 provides a balanced sound experience, although specifics about its feel are lacking. Ultimately, users seeking distinct auditory feedback may lean towards the Aniya, while those who prefer a quieter operation might find the FJ400 more suitable. The decision may come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, but both switches promise to deliver commendable performance in their respective areas.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter keypress feel and enjoy a slightly more pronounced clacky sound, the Aniya would suit you well, especially considering its smooth and creamy typing experience that allows for effortless gliding across the keys. This makes the Aniya an excellent option for extended typing sessions or casual gaming where comfort is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer keypress with a bit more resistance and a balanced auditory experience, the FJ400 would be your better choice. The medium actuation force of 58 grams offers a tactile feedback that can be satisfying for both typing and gaming enthusiasts who like to feel the keys beneath their fingers without feeling too heavy. In conclusion, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, more melodic experience with the Aniya or a sturdier feel with the FJ400 for a reliable typing experience.
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