PH Studio Aniya vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh BCP linear switches present two exciting options, each with its own unique characteristics. The Aniya, crafted by BSUN, offers a delightful auditory experience with a medium-light actuation that results in a smooth feel and a clacky sound profile that is enjoyable without being overwhelmingly loud. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP linear switch reimagines the classic Black Cherry Pie with a creamy and bouncy feel that adds an element of elasticity to every keystroke. Its signature poppy sound enhances the tactile feedback, making it appealing to users who prefer a lively typing experience. While both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, your ultimate choice will depend on your priorities—whether it's a refined auditory sensation or a vibrant tactile response. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh BCP switches present a fascinating study in contrasts while also highlighting some similarities. The Aniya utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, known for creating a sound profile that is deep and somewhat muted. This unique acoustic characteristic is attributed to POM's dense nature, which helps in producing an auditory experience that is pleasing and distinctive. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP employs nylon for its housing materials, which also offers a deeper sound profile but emphasizes fullness and a rounder quality due to its softer plastic composition. While both materials yield a deeper sound, the POM is more muted, while the nylon tends to absorb sound more, resulting in a fuller auditory landscape.
Looking at the impact of these materials on the switches’ performance, the split between the top and bottom housings of each switch further accentuates their unique qualities. For the Aniya, the POM top housing enhances the sound when releasing the key, contributing to a softer auditory exit. In contrast, the BCP's nylon top also affects the sound profile during releases but maintains a characteristic that might be slightly more resonant due to the nature of the nylon. As for the bottom housings, both the POM and nylon significantly contribute to the bottom-out feel and sound. While the Aniya’s POM bottom housing provides a solid and controlled bottoming experience, the BCP’s nylon bottom may offer a slightly softer impact due to its material properties, resulting in a different tactile feedback when pressed.
Despite the differences in housing materials, the overall sound performance between the Aniya and the Kailh BCP can lead to similar user experiences in certain contexts. Both switches are engineered to produce deeper sound profiles, although the methods by which they achieve this vary due to the inherent characteristics of POM versus nylon. When users engage with either switch, they can expect a satisfying auditory feedback that focuses on deeper tones, making for an enjoyable typing experience. If one's priority lies with muted sounds, the Aniya may be preferable, whereas those looking for a fuller acoustic experience may lean toward the BCP. Ultimately, both switches showcase the diverse range of effects that housing materials can impart on user experience.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch with the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Aniya switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Kailh BCP requires a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. For users who prefer a lighter switch that allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue, the Aniya would be the better choice. Conversely, those who enjoy the substantial feel of a heavier switch may gravitate towards the BCP for that more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, for a user prioritizing lightness and ease, the Aniya stands out, whereas the BCP suits those favoring a heftier typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Kailh BCP linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Aniya switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the BCP switch. For gamers seeking quicker key presses and faster response times, the shorter 3.2 mm travel of the Aniya may be more desirable. However, those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when typing might find the additional 0.3 mm of the BCP switch to be more comfortable. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences regarding travel distance, the Aniya is the better option for responsiveness, while the BCP is suitable for a more pronounced keystroke 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
The sound profile of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is characterized by a pronounced clacky ambiance, which leans towards a crisp and bright auditory experience without being overwhelmingly loud. This results in a typing sound that is engaging and pleasant, with a balance that can enrich your overall typing experience. While the Kailh BCP switch does not have an explicitly defined sound profile provided, it is known for a poppy and clacky quality, which suggests it may also offer a comparable auditory engagement during use. The subjective experience of sound will ultimately depend on the combination of the switch with the keyboard case and keycap choices; therefore, both switches could yield similar sound qualities in the right setups.
When it comes to tactile feedback, the Aniya switch shines with its creamy, polished, and silky qualities, resulting in a remarkably smooth feel characterized by minimal resistance and luxurious keystrokes. This combination of attributes makes every actuation feel effortless and delightful, catering to users who prioritize smoothness in their typing experience. In contrast, the specifics of the Kailh BCP's feel have not been detailed, which leaves a gap in understanding how it compares. However, its description as providing a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel could imply a different tactile feedback that emphasizes rebound and a dynamic response as opposed to the smoothness of the Aniya.
In summary, while both the PH Studio Aniya and Kailh BCP switches share elements of a clacky auditory experience, the Aniya solidifies its reputation with a distinctively smooth feel and engaging sound profile. The tension between these switches lies primarily in their tactile sensations, where the Aniya offers a buttery, polished touch, and the BCP remains somewhat undefined. For newcomers looking for a satisfying typing experience, either switch could meet their needs, but preferences regarding sound and feel will ultimately steer them towards one or the other based on their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the kind of auditory experience you desire. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth, creamy feel and enjoy a balanced auditory experience that is clacky without being overly loud, the Aniya switch would be an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force ensures that you can type comfortably for longer sessions without fatigue, making it suitable for both casual use and extended typing tasks. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy actuation that provides a poppy and bouncy typing experience, then the Kailh BCP switch is likely to suit your needs better. With a 63.5-gram bottom-out force, it delivers more tactile feedback, which can be satisfying for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, both switches have their unique attributes: the Aniya for a smooth and enjoyable auditory and tactile experience, and the BCP for a robust, engaging typing adventure. Consider what feels and sounds best to you, and you'll have a solid choice between these two compelling options.
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