PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both stand out for their unique characteristics. The Aniya, a linear switch, is praised for its harmonious sound profile that leans towards a pronounced clacky sound without being excessively loud. It offers a smooth feel with a medium-light actuation, making typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2, also a linear switch, features a long stem pole that produces a crisp top-out sound with a deep 'clack', providing a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience. While both switches are categorized as clacky, creamy, and polished, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its frictionless and snappy feel. 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
52g
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
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the Aniya features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, the Hyacinth V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2 results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in housing materials leads to distinct sound experiences for users of each keyboard.
In terms of aesthetics, the Aniya's POM top and bottom housing are both opaque, while the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, allowing for RGB lighting effects. This difference in material and transparency gives the Hyacinth V2 a unique visual appeal compared to the Aniya. Additionally, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 provides a softer feel when typing, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Aniya.
While the POM top and bottom housing of the Aniya create a consistent and pleasing sound profile, the split between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 provides a more dynamic typing experience. The impact of each housing material on the sound and feel of the keyboard is noticeable when pressing down on keys or letting go. Depending on the user's preference for sound and tactile feedback, both the Aniya and the Hyacinth V2 offer unique housing materials that cater to different typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hyacinth V2 is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The actuation force of both switches is relatively close, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, those who prefer a slightly stronger push may lean towards the Hyacinth V2 for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aniya would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly deeper key press, which may feel more satisfying to those who prefer a more substantial key travel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in modern keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference for key feel 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 HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 for $2.91.
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 described as having a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound that is not overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is also described as having a clacky sound, offering a crisp top-out sound in every stroke that is resonant and satisfying. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience, with the Aniya focusing on a balance in sound profile and the Hyacinth V2 emphasizing a deep 'clack' for enthusiasts seeking depth in auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, both the Aniya and the Hyacinth V2 switches are described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. The use of specific materials and factory lubing contribute to this silky sensation, allowing for effortless keystrokes and reduced friction during key travel. Additionally, the Aniya switch is also described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience, while the Hyacinth V2 is noted for being frictionless, providing an extremely smooth and responsive typing feel.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aniya focuses on a balanced sound profile and smooth feel with medium-light actuation, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep 'clack' sound and incredibly smooth typing experience. These switches cater to different preferences but provide equally satisfying results for users seeking a premium mechanical keyboard switch experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a balanced sound profile with a more pronounced clacky sound and a smooth typing feel with a medium-light actuation force, the Aniya switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a crisp top-out sound and a deep, resonant 'clack' paired with a smooth and buttery typing experience, along with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound profile, typing feel, and actuation force that align with your preferences and typing style.
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