PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to explore are the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch. The Aniya is lauded for its balanced sound profile, offering a clacky yet not overwhelmingly loud auditory experience. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a pleasure with this switch. On the other hand, the Koala presents a middle ground for those seeking a tactile bump without it dominating the entire keystroke. Expect a bit of resonance with this switch, which is not too loud and provides a satisfying typing experience. While these general descriptions provide an overview of each switch's characteristics, diving deeper into their specific features will help you make the best choice based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Koala, we can see a clear difference in the sound profiles each material produces. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deeper and muted sound, whereas the Koala's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction in sound is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to POM, which affects the resonance and pitch of the sound produced. While both materials offer their own unique sound profiles, users looking for a more subdued sound may prefer the Aniya with its POM housing, while those seeking a sharper and higher-pitched sound may lean towards the Koala with its polycarbonate housing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, we see another difference between the Aniya and the Koala. The Aniya's POM bottom housing also creates a deeper and muted sound, similar to its top housing, providing a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. In contrast, the Koala's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material used in the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and the Koala will depend on the sound profile and typing experience that users prefer. While both switches offer unique qualities in their top and bottom housing materials, users can choose between a deeper and muted sound with the POM housing of the Aniya or a sharper and crisper sound with the polycarbonate housing of the Koala. Similarly, users can opt for a more resonant and round sound with the nylon bottom housing of the Koala or a consistent sound profile throughout the switch with the POM bottom housing of the Aniya. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to different preferences, allowing users to select the housing material that best suits their typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Koala has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams but does not specify its actuation force. The lighter actuation force of the Aniya makes it ideal for long typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred, while the heavier bottom out force of the Koala provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on preference, with the Aniya being lighter and the Koala being medium-heavy in terms of force required to press the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm, which is shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The Aniya would provide a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the Koala offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences regarding travel distance and typing feel. Regardless of the difference in travel distance, both switches are designed to provide a smooth and reliable typing 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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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
Overall, when it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched profile that is not excessively loud, providing a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch is described as low-pitched and neutral, striking a balance between a bass-heavy tone and moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and polished sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. Conversely, the Koala switch provides a polished typing experience with an accented and stepped tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still prominent. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different sound and feel profiles, catering to individual preferences. Whether you choose the Aniya or the Koala, you can expect a high-quality typing experience, tailored to your specific sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, creamy feel, then the Aniya might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a stepped tactility and a more polished feel, then the Koala could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what kind of typing experience you are looking to achieve. Happy typing!
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