PH Studio Aniya vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya, known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound that is not excessively loud but still audible, providing a pleasant auditory experience. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make each keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. With a crisp and clacky sound signature, each keystroke is satisfying. If you value a clacky and creamy sound profile, the Aniya may be the better choice, while the Lavender offers an easy-to-press and clacky 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
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Aniya and the Zuoce Lavender use POM material for their top and bottom housings, creating a similar sound profile for both switches. The POM material is known for producing a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to other materials. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect consistent sound characteristics from both switches.
Although both switches utilize POM material for their housings, the PH Studio Aniya and Zuoce Lavender may differ in the specific design and construction of their housing components. The way in which the top and bottom housings are shaped and assembled can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch. Differences in housing design could result in variations in sound characteristics, keypress feedback, and overall typing experience between the Aniya and Lavender switches.
While the POM material used in both switches may produce a similar sound profile, the impact of the bottom and top housings on the overall typing experience should not be overlooked. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing can affect the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how these housing components work together can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound, tactile feedback, and overall typing comfort. By considering the nuances of housing design and how they interact with the keypress, users can make an informed decision when selecting between the PH Studio Aniya and Zuoce Lavender switches.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch's 48 grams, making the Aniya easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Aniya also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Lavender's 53 grams, making the Lavender slightly heavier when pressing all the way down. Both switches fall into the lighter weight category, which is beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. Users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Lavender for its slightly heavier force. Nonetheless, for those seeking a lighter touch, both switches offer a similar experience despite the slight variation in force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lavender switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya switch. The difference in travel distance may result in a subtle variation in the feel of the switches when pressed. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Aniya switch would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when typing, the Lavender switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their slight difference in travel distance, catering to different preferences.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 known for its clacky sound profile with a medium pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch also boasts a clacky sound signature that is crisp and bright, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches offer a unique sound experience that is sure to please users looking for a tactile and satisfying typing sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aniya is praised for its creamy and polished feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and refined. In comparison, the Lavender switch is noted for being easy-to-press with gentle resistance during key presses, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue. Despite the differences in feel, both switches offer a smooth typing experience that users will appreciate.
Overall, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch have their distinct qualities that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard community. The Aniya excels in providing a clacky sound profile with a smooth and buttery feel, while the Lavender offers a similarly satisfying clacky sound with an easy-to-press feature for a comfortable typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch would be a great choice for newcomers looking to enhance their typing experience with quality mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. Choose the Aniya if you prioritize a balanced sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound and medium-light actuation force. The Aniya offers a smooth typing experience with a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, opt for the Lavender if you prefer exceptional smoothness right out of the box and a crisp, clacky sound signature. The Lavender has a bottom out force of 53 grams and is easy to press, making it ideal for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound profile, smoothness, or actuation force in your mechanical keyboard switch preference.
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