PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch, known for its balanced sound profile with a pronounced clackiness, and smooth feel with medium-light actuation, offers a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch distinguishes itself with a 3.5mm travel distance to prevent hard bottoming-out and a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve. While the Aniya leans towards a clacky sound and creamy feel, the Hyacinth focuses on a subtle tactile feedback and neutral sound. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater 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
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Hyacinth offer unique characteristics that ultimately impact the sound profile of the switches. The Aniya uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth employs polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials gives each switch a distinct auditory experience, catering to different preferences in sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Aniya's POM housing provides a solid and sleek look, while the Hyacinth's polycarbonate housing offers a translucent quality that is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. This visual aspect adds another dimension to the switches, allowing users to customize their keyboards with lighting effects that showcase the clarity and transparency of the polycarbonate material. While both switches are durable and functional, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and style.
The bottom housing material also plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch. The Aniya's POM bottom housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Hyacinth's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. This difference in material composition affects the typing experience, with nylon absorbing more sound and creating a duller sound profile compared to the stiffer POM material. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall typing experience, allowing users to find the perfect balance of sound and feel that suits their preferences.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams, while the KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 56 grams. This makes the Hyacinth switch slightly heavier than the Aniya switch. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Aniya, which allows for a smoother typing experience and less fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Hyacinth provides a bit more resistance, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience, and users should consider their preferences before making a decision.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm while the Hyacinth has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for faster response times, especially among gamers. The Aniya's 3.2 mm distance may provide a quicker and more responsive feel when typing or gaming compared to the Hyacinth's 3.5 mm distance. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Aniya to be too abrupt and prefer the slightly greater depth of the Hyacinth switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
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 Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 crisp and bright auditory experience. This sound profile leans towards being more pronounced, but still remains pleasant without being overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as neutral, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the desired sound experience, keeping in mind that factors like keyboard type and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and polished typing experience, featuring a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. The use of certain materials or factory lubricant contributes to this silky feel, making typing feel effortless and seamless. Conversely, the KTT Hyacinth switch also offers a silky typing experience, along with a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. This gentleness in resistance, combined with the smooth key travel, ensures a comfortable typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, paired with a creamy and polished typing experience, while the Hyacinth switch offers a neutral sound profile along with a silky and subtly resistant feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with both switches offering a pleasant typing experience that prioritizes user comfort and enjoyment. If a similar typing experience is desired, either switch can provide satisfactory results depending on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, creamy typing experience, the Aniya might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a silky, smooth typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force, the Hyacinth could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and comfortable.
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