PH Studio Aniya vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Aniya, with its medium-light actuation and smooth feel, provides a satisfyingly clacky sound profile without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out force and bouncy sensation, offering a crisp and audible feedback with each press. While both switches share some qualities like being clacky and high-pitched, they differ in stem material and spring design, ultimately impacting the typing experience. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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 lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the PH Studio Jacaranda both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Aniya features a POM top housing, which produces a pleasing and deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. In contrast, the Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda's housing results in a clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both materials bring their own unique qualities to the switches, the POM top housing of the Aniya and the polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda offer contrasting sound experiences for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, the PH Studio Aniya features a POM bottom housing, similar to its top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Jacaranda incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aniya. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound, contrasting the qualities of POM. The difference in the bottom housing materials of the Aniya and Jacaranda further contributes to the distinct sound experiences offered by each switch.
When considering the overall sound experience of a switch, both the top and bottom housings play a crucial role. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing the key. The choice between a switch with POM housing like the Aniya or polycarbonate housing like the Jacaranda will ultimately result in different sound and tactile experiences for users. By understanding the qualities each housing material brings to the switches, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Jacaranda slightly lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, both switches would provide a similar feel. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the slight difference in weight between the two switches may be noticeable. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and Jacaranda switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and the level of force desired.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya switch. The Aniya switch may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which could be preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch with a longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter or longer travel distance for their typing or gaming experience.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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, both the PH Studio Aniya and Jacaranda linear switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This characteristic gives users a tactile feedback when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the Aniya leans more towards a pronounced clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda produces a slightly more gentle clack with its extended spring, offering a unique bouncy sensation.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya boasts a creamy and smooth typing experience due to the use of Ly as the stem material, providing a silky sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jacaranda is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches aim to reduce friction and provide a satisfying typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Overall, both the PH Studio Aniya and Jacaranda linear switches offer excellent sound profiles and tactile feedback, making them suitable choices for users looking for clacky and high-pitched switches. While the Aniya may lean slightly more towards a pronounced clack sound and a medium-light actuation, the Jacaranda stands out with its extended spring for a uniquely bouncy sensation during typing. Ultimately, users can expect a pleasant auditory experience and a smooth typing feel with either of these switches, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a medium-light actuation and smooth feel, the Aniya would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper and audibly feedback with a bouncy sensation and silky smooth typing experience, the Jacaranda might be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches offer a light bottom out force, making them gentle on the fingers for fatigue-free typing. Consider your sound and feel preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and overall experience.