PH Studio Aniya vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various options that cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The PH Studio Aniya and the Keygeek Keylin are two excellent linear switches, each offering distinct characteristics that may appeal to different users. The Aniya, produced by BSUN, is celebrated for its unique sound profile that balances a clacky resonance with a pleasant, not overly intrusive auditory experience. Its medium-light actuation and Ly stem material provide a remarkably smooth typing sensation, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate a slightly pronounced sound while typing. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin, crafted with new molds, focuses on delivering unparalleled smoothness and rich acoustics, ensuring a premium typing experience that may be ideal for users who prioritize a quieter environment without sacrificing performance. Both switches offer distinct advantages, making them worthy contenders for your keyboard setup; 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
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Keygeek Keylin switches exhibit some intriguing similarities and distinctions. Both the Aniya and Keylin employ POM and nylon respectively for their top and bottom housings, leading to a strikingly similar sound profile that leans toward a deeper and somewhat muted auditory experience. The POM top housing of the Aniya is praised for creating a unique acoustic character that resonates with a rich and enjoyable sound. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Keylin is recognized as a classic choice that also delivers a full and deep sound. Despite these materials being different, both contribute to a sound that is rounded and enjoyable, suggesting a convergence in the auditory experience despite the variance in material composition.
When examining the bottom housing, the Aniya features POM material, while the Keylin utilizes nylon, which further accentuates the similarity in acoustic characteristics. Both materials are softer compared to alternatives like polycarbonate or ABS, enabling them to absorb sound effectively, reducing harshness and resulting in a fuller, more muted auditory sensation. The bottom-out sounds produced also have a distinct yet complementary feel due to their respective properties, with the POM offering stability and the nylon enhancing the overall absorbent quality. Thus, while the housing materials differ, both switches maintain a pleasing sound profile during use due to their softer nature.
It is essential to recognize that the interaction between the top and bottom housings significantly influences the overall sound and typing experience for both switches. In the case of the Aniya, the POM top housing's impact on the release sound merges with the deeper characteristics of the nylon bottom housing from the Keylin, creating a cohesive auditory output. If the two switches were to be compared in practice, one would be able to achieve similar results in terms of sound profile, with both configurations providing that satisfying, deeper sound typical of softer plastic materials. Thus, regardless of the individual properties of POM and nylon, users can expect an overall sound experience that highlights warmth and depth in both switch selections.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them well-suited for extended typing sessions. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Keylin is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Keylin requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Aniya, which may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch. Although both switches fall into the lighter category, the Keylin might cater better to those who prioritize minimal effort in their keystrokes for longer gaming or office tasks. Overall, while both switches offer similar advantages for ease of keypressing, the Keylin is the lighter option, potentially leading to less fatigue over long use.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch present contrasting travel distances, with the Aniya featuring a travel distance of 3.2 mm and the Keylin at 3.6 mm. The Aniya's shorter travel distance caters well to gamers who seek quicker response times, allowing for faster actuation and a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Keylin's 3.6 mm travel provides a more traditional depth, which might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience and find the shorter distances to be too abrupt. Consequently, if you're leaning toward a switch that prioritizes rapid response, the PH Studio Aniya would be the more suitable option, while the Keygeek Keylin would be better for users who appreciate a deeper, more tactile feel.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 provides a distinct auditory profile that leans towards a clacky and high-pitched character, producing crisp and resonant tones with each keystroke. This sound is not overwhelming, making it suitable for users who enjoy a lively typing experience without intrusive noise levels. The richness in its acoustic feedback adds an engaging dimension to the typing experience, complemented by easily identifiable higher frequencies. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin linear switches' sound characteristics remain undefined, leaving a gap in understanding how they compare sonically. Users may need to rely on personal testing to fully appreciate the Keylin's auditory nuances and compare them to the Aniya.
When it comes to the feel, the Aniya linear switch excels in offering a creamy and silky typing experience. The use of Ly as the stem material ensures a smooth and polished action, leading to minimal resistance during key presses. This buttery sensation allows for effortless gliding over the keys, enhancing typing accuracy and comfort over prolonged use. Unfortunately, the feel of the Keylin linear switch is also not specified, which requires users to seek firsthand experience to evaluate how it compares to the silky satisfaction provided by the Aniya.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch stands out with its distinct sound profile and exceptional smoothness, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an engaging and tactile typing experience. Meanwhile, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch remains less defined in both sound and feel, leaving potential users curious and eager for direct comparison through tactile experience. For anyone considering these switches, the Aniya promises a combination of pleasant acoustics and a smooth action, while the Keylin's characteristics remain an open question that may offer equally satisfying alternatives depending on personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch really depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you crave a switch that offers a lighter feel with a subtly pronounced clacky sound profile, the Aniya is an excellent choice. Its smooth and creamy feel, enhanced by its unique Ly stem material, makes it ideal for those who enjoy a luxurious typing experience and appreciate auditory feedback without it being overly distracting. On the other hand, if you're seeking a refined or premium feel with acoustics that favor exceptional smoothness, the Keylin would suit you well. While it has a similar light bottom-out force, it leans more towards delivering a straightforward typing experience without the more pronounced sound characteristics of the Aniya. You might also want to consider your environment; in quieter settings, the less clacky, smoother Keylin could be more appropriate, whereas the pleasant but audible nature of the Aniya might add an enjoyable character to a more dynamic atmosphere.
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