PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch, known for its harmonious sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound, offers a delightful auditory experience with its medium-light actuation and smooth feel. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switches stand out for their soft and light feel, accompanied by a unique "baritone" sound profile. While the Aniya leans towards a high-pitched clacky sound, the Grapefruit switches have a lower-pitched and neutral tone. Both switches provide a polished feel but cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Grapefruit both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Aniya features a POM top housing, which produces a deep and muted sound, while the Grapefruit has a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and clearer sound. The difference in sound can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to POM, as well as the translucency of polycarbonate which makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While the Aniya and Grapefruit both offer unique sound profiles, the choice between POM and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Aniya uses POM while the Grapefruit utilizes nylon. POM housings in the Aniya result in a deeper and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing in the Grapefruit produces a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller sound profile. The contrast between the POM and nylon bottom housings showcases the impact that different materials can have on the overall typing experience of a keyboard.
When considering the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the housing materials of a switch play a key role in determining the sound and feel. While the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. The combination of POM and nylon in the Aniya and Grapefruit, respectively, showcases the balance of creating a unique sound profile through the use of different housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and Grapefruit will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, giving it a medium-light feel. For those who enjoy typing for extended periods of time or engaging in long gaming sessions, the lighter actuation force of the Aniya may be more comfortable. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Grapefruit may be a better choice due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter of the two options compared to the KTT Grapefruit linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya switch would be preferred by those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately depends on personal preference whether you would opt for the shorter Aniya switch or the longer Grapefruit switch.
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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 known for its slightly clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound that is not excessively high-pitched. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a tarty linear sound profile with a soft and light feel, described as having a "baritone" but not yet "bass" deep sound profile. While the Aniya leans towards a sharper sound, the Grapefruit provides a more mellow tone with a lower-pitched sound, offering a different auditory experience depending on personal preferences.
Moving on to the feel, the PH Studio Aniya switch is praised for its remarkably smooth feel due to the use of Ly as the stem material. It is described as creamy, offering a buttery typing experience with a silky sensation as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. In comparison, the KTT Grapefruit switch is also noted for a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Aniya focusing on a creamy and polished feel while the Grapefruit emphasizes a polished and smooth typing sensation.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Aniya excels in providing a slightly clacky sound with a creamy and silky feel, while the Grapefruit delivers a tarty linear sound with a polished and smooth typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to a variety of user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on the specific sound and feel preferences of the user, ensuring a customized typing experience based on personal taste.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, your decision may ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth and medium-light actuation, the Aniya may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a softer and lighter feel with a deep but not overwhelming sound profile, then the Grapefruit switch may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities and it ultimately depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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