PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile can greatly impact your typing experience. The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, offering a more pronounced clacky sound that is not overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke on the Aniya is a delight. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch takes tactile typing to the next level, blending creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities and benefits to consider when making your choice. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Ice King Tactile both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Aniya featuring POM housings and the Ice King Tactile featuring nylon housings. The POM housings in the Aniya switches create a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. In contrast, the nylon housings in the Ice King Tactile switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both housing materials create a similar deep sound profile, the differences in the materials' properties contribute to the unique auditory experiences provided by each switch.
In terms of the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the Aniya switch continues to contribute to the deep and muted sound profile characteristic of POM material. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Ice King Tactile further enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon material, providing a consistent typing experience across the switch. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings aim to deliver a satisfying sound and feel while typing, with each material's properties playing a role in shaping the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes clear that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can affect different aspects of the typing experience, with both the Aniya and Ice King Tactile switches offering unique characteristics based on their respective POM and nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it's clear that the Aniya is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile is the heavier choice with an actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams. The Aniya offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch during long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, appealing to users who prefer a heavier force for added feedback. Both switches offer distinctive characteristics, with the Aniya catering to those who favor a lighter touch and the Ice King Tactile satisfying users who prefer a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, we find that the Aniya has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Ice King Tactile has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference between the two may seem minimal, but it can actually make a noticeable impact on typing feel and user experience. The shorter travel distance of the Aniya may be favored by those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is described as producing a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. While both switches differ in their sound qualities, depending on personal preference, users may lean towards the more pronounced clacky sound of the Aniya or the softer sound of the Ice King Tactile.
Moving on to the feel, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and smooth typing experience, attributed to the use of Ly as the stem material. This results in a buttery sensation and effortless keystrokes, making typing a joy. Similarly, the Ice King Tactile switch also offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, whether it be the buttery smoothness of the Aniya or the frictionless sensation of the Ice King Tactile.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound and creamy feel, the Ice King Tactile provides a softer sound and silky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Both switches offer premium quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering which switch to choose for your mechanical keyboard, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more pronounced clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be a great choice. The smooth feel and medium-light actuation make for a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a creamy smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch might be more suited to your preference. The blend of smoothness and tactility creates a uniquely satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aniya or the Ice King Tactile will depend on your specific preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
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