PH Studio Aniya vs. Huano Grape Orange

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Aniya and Huano Grape Orange both offer unique advantages for typists and gamers alike, despite sharing the linear switch designation. The Aniya, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its pleasingly clacky sound profile that strikes an appealing balance—audible enough to provide feedback without being overly distracting. Its Ly stem material ensures a remarkably smooth feel, making each keystroke an enjoyable experience, especially for those who appreciate a medium-light actuation force. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switch stands out with its ultra-light 40g actuation force, allowing for an almost effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours of use without fatigue. While the Aniya presents a sensory delight in its sound and smoothness, the Grape Orange excels in providing a nearly weightless feel for extensive typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

PH Studio Aniya Linear

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$4.50

$4.20 per 10

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Huano Grape Orange, the distinctions in sound profiles emerge as a critical factor. The Aniya features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a sound that is relatively muted and deeper in tone. This material tends to create a unique auditory experience that can feel warm and plush, making it particularly appealing for users who favor a softer sound. In comparison, the Grape Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top housing which is recognized for its sharper and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate facilitates a more resonant sound, leading to a more pronounced auditory feedback when the keys are released. Thus, while both switches deliver satisfying sound experiences, they cater to different auditory preferences through their respective housing materials.

Diving deeper into the bottom housings, the Aniya employs a POM material, mirroring the qualities of its top housing to ensure a cohesive and pleasant sound. Similarly, the Grape Orange features a nylon bottom housing, which is considered a classic switch material. Nylon is softer than POM, absorbing more sound to yield a deeper and fuller acoustic output. While both switches aim to create rich sound profiles, the Aniya’s POM results in a more muted sound overall, while the nylon of the Grape Orange strikes a balance between warmth and clarity, enhancing the depth of sound on bottoming out. This variance between the sounds produced — with POM contributing to a softer experience and nylon targeting a more robust impact — illustrates the nuanced differences in user experience offered by these two switches.

In terms of how these differences affect the overall performance of the switches, it is essential to note that the sound quality is influenced by both the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will largely dictate the feel and sound during the bottom-out phase; in the case of the Aniya, this would translate to a muffled bump from its POM material, while the Grape Orange will deliver a more pronounced thock due to its nylon composition. On the release, the sound is predominantly defined by the top housing, where the Aniya’s deeper and more muted qualities contrast sharply with the Grape Orange’s vibrant and crisp outputs. Ultimately, even though the Aniya and Grape Orange employ different materials for their housings, each results in a compelling and distinctive typing experience that reflects the unique properties of their respective materials.

Weight

When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Grape Orange features a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, also with a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Grape Orange is the lighter switch overall, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches share the same bottom out force, suggesting that users will experience similar resistance when pressing the keys to their maximum depth. This makes either switch a good choice for users who prefer a lighter feel, but those who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Aniya slightly heavier during actuation. Overall, the Grape Orange offers a marginally lighter actuation experience compared to the Aniya, while both switches bottom out at the same force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, there are notable differences that could influence user preference. The Aniya has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Grape Orange measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Aniya the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that many gamers may appreciate for quicker key presses. In contrast, the Grape Orange's longer 3.6 mm travel distance provides a heftier depth, which might appeal to users who prefer a more tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one values responsiveness over the more substantial feel offered by a longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch delivers a distinct clacky profile that is characterized by its sharp and snappy auditory feedback. The sound is not excessively high-pitched but carries a unique brightness that can be quite pleasant. This distinctive auditory quality makes it more engaging, though it remains at a volume that feels comfortably balanced and does not overwhelm the user. In comparison, the Huano Grape Orange switches do not have an accompanying sound description, which means their auditory experience remains largely unknown. However, since many linear switches tend to be quieter overall, it's possible that the Grape Orange also leans toward a more muted sound.

When it comes to feel, the Aniya switches shine with their creamy and silky characteristics. This smoothness is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and, likely, factory lubrication, allowing for a typing experience that feels almost buttery. Users can expect a delightful sensation as their fingers glide effortlessly over the keys, making for a relaxing typing experience. The Grape Orange switches, while described as having an ultra-low actuation force of 40g—which is very light—do not have specific descriptors regarding their tactile feel. Therefore, how they compare in that respect remains unclear. However, their minimal force could suggest an easier keystroke experience.

In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya and Huano Grape Orange linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aniya is known for its prominent clacky sound and creamy, silky feel, making it a joy to type on. In contrast, the auditory profile of the Grape Orange remains undefined, but its ultra-light actuation force promises a potentially effortless typing experience. For those who favor a smooth and engaging typing experience, the Aniya excels, while the Grape Orange might serve well for users who prioritize minimal resistance with an unclear auditory trait. Ultimately, users might lean towards the Aniya for its overall sensory experience, while the Grape Orange could be appealing for those who desire a lighter touch.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the auditory experience you desire. If you value a smooth and creamy typing sensation alongside a more pronounced clacky sound profile, the Aniya is an excellent choice. Its thoughtful design provides a delightful auditory experience without being overly loud, making it suitable for both gaming and typing where you want a bit of feedback without distraction. Conversely, if your focus is on effortless typing with a lighter actuation force and you engage in long writing sessions, the Grape Orange might be the better option for you. Its ultra-low actuation force ensures that you can type rapidly and comfortably without fatigue. In essence, if you prioritize sound and feel variety, go for the Aniya; if you emphasize ease and minimal effort in keystrokes, the Grape Orange is your go-to switch.

Mentioned in this article

PH Studio Aniya Linear

$4.50

$4.20 per 10

Learn more

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more