PH Studio Aniya vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the PH Studio Aniya and the TTC Flame Red, both linear switches. The Aniya, manufactured by BSUN, offers a balanced sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound that is not overwhelmingly loud, creating a pleasant auditory experience. With a smooth feel due to the stem material Ly and a medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the Flame Red is known for its visually appealing light diffuser, making it perfect for backlit RGB keyboards. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and appeal, catering to different preferences. 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
54g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and TTC Flame Red both offer top and bottom housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Aniya uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a pleasing but relatively muted sound that leans towards the deeper side. In contrast, the Flame Red utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound profile that is rounder and duller due to the softer nature of nylon.
Even though the housing materials for the Aniya and Flame Red switches differ, they both aim to create a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The POM top housing of the Aniya and the nylon top housing of the Flame Red each contribute to a deeper sound profile that enhances the overall typing feel. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Aniya and the nylon bottom housing of the Flame Red work to absorb more sound and create a fuller sound profile that is satisfying to the user.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Aniya and Flame Red switches may have their unique properties, the overall goal of both switches is to provide a pleasant typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials allow for a dynamic sound profile that caters to both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's POM or nylon, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound and tactile feedback of the switches, ultimately enhancing the user's typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Flame Red's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger key presses. However, the Aniya also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Flame Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 54 grams. This means that the Flame Red requires a bit more pressure for a full keyst excersion. Overall, the Aniya switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, whereas the Flame Red switch provides a slightly more tactile typing experience with heavier forces. These differences can have an impact on typing speed and comfort depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Flame Red offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya's travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a favorable choice for those seeking a faster response time, particularly gamers. On the other hand, the Flame Red provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flame Red offering a more standard depth compared to the Aniya. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth 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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is not overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound output suitable for various purposes. Depending on personal preferences, the Aniya switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and crisp sound, while the Flame Red switch may be favored by individuals seeking a more balanced and versatile sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is known for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing feel, offering a gentle and approachable experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches focus on delivering a smooth typing experience, but the Aniya switch may appeal to those who prefer a more luxurious and silky feel, while the Flame Red switch may suit individuals looking for a comfortable and easy-going typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch stands out for its harmonious balance in sound profile, providing a clacky yet not excessively loud auditory experience coupled with a remarkably smooth and medium-light actuation for an enjoyable typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a visually appealing light diffuser for backlit keyboards, along with a neutral sound profile and a mild yet polished typing experience for a versatile and comfortable typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you appreciate a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, medium-light actuation, the Aniya may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a visually stunning switch with a weighty smoothness and a moderate sound profile, the Flame Red could be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel when typing. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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