PH Studio Aniya vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch both offer unique features that appeal to different preferences. The Aniya is known for its balanced sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound but not excessively loud, with a smooth feel and medium-light actuation. On the other hand, the TTC Iron boasts a distinctive clacky sound signature with swift actuation and smooth travel. While the Aniya may be preferred for its pleasant auditory experience and creamy feel, the Iron stands out for its easy-to-press actuation and aural satisfaction with every keystroke. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and TTC Iron switches both utilize POM for the top and bottom housings, creating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. This results in a consistent auditory experience for users of both switches, with the POM material providing a certain level of sound dampening that is characteristic of this material. While the top and bottom housings are the same for both switches, the qualities of the material are split between the two components, affecting the sound and feel of the switch in different ways.
Despite both switches utilizing POM for their housing materials, the PH Studio Aniya and TTC Iron may exhibit subtle differences in sound and feel due to variations in manufacturing processes or design. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even though both switches share the same housing materials, users may notice nuanced distinctions in sound and tactile feedback when typing or gaming with the switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and TTC Iron switches provide users with a consistent and reliable typing experience characterized by a deep and muted sound profile. The utilization of POM for both the top and bottom housings ensures a level of sound dampening that is pleasing to the ear. While there may be subtle variations in sound and feel between the two switches, overall, users can expect similar results in terms of auditory feedback when using either the Aniya or Iron switches.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch have similar actuation forces, with the Aniya requiring 42 grams and the Iron needing 41 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for both switches. In comparing the two, the Aniya is slightly lighter than the Iron, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. However, both switches offer a relatively light actuation force compared to other options on the market, making them suitable for users who prioritize comfort during long typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, one can see that the Aniya has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aniya offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Iron provides a longer travel distance, which may suit those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of 3.0 to 4.0 mm, which is considered standard for linear switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth 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 TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 sound profile that is not excessively high-pitched, providing a balanced auditory experience that leans towards a sharp and crisp tone. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch also offers a clacky sound signature that adds an enjoyable element to typing, resonating with each press for a satisfying auditory feedback. While the Aniya leans towards a more medium tone, the Iron provides a more pronounced clacky sound. Both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, with the Aniya being slightly less intense in its clackiness compared to the Iron.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch boasts a creamy and smooth typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material. This results in a buttery sensation that makes each keystroke effortless and delightful. Conversely, the TTC Iron linear switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force ensures typing is comfortable and fatigue-free, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the Aniya provides a silky feel, the Iron offers a more approachable typing experience with its mild characteristics, catering to a wider range of users' preferences.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya provides a harmonious balance of clacky sound and creamy feel, making it a great choice for those seeking a smoother typing experience with a medium-light actuation. On the other hand, the Iron excels in delivering a pronounced clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, ideal for users looking for a more distinct auditory feedback and light key activation. Depending on individual preferences for sound intensity and typing resistance, both switches provide excellent options for enthusiasts and daily users seeking precision and pleasure in their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal taste and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a more harmonious and medium-light actuation, the Aniya switch with its pronounced clacky sound profile and smooth feel could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a distinct clacky sound and light actuation force that offers an easy-to-press and gentle typing experience, the TTC Iron switch might be more suited to your typing style. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns best with what you enjoy in a mechanical keyboard experience.
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