PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) both present compelling options, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Aniya switch, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile—striking a harmonious blend of auditory richness without being excessively loud, making it ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced clack while maintaining a pleasant typing atmosphere. Its silky smooth feel, combined with a medium-light actuation, ensures that each keystroke is not only enjoyable but also conducive to prolonged use. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) embraces a weightier actuation force of 62.5g, delivering a bouncy and bright typing experience that appeals to users who prefer a more substantial key press. This switch, while still linear, provides a satisfying tactile feedback that can enhance the overall typing rhythm. Both switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, making them suitable for different typing styles and preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer intriguing distinctions and similarities, particularly in their top and bottom components. The Aniya features POM (polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings, which is known for producing a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. This consistent use of a single housing material helps reinforce the sound qualities across the switch, ensuring a unified auditory experience that aligns well with the gamers and typists who favor a more subtle acoustic feedback. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively compared to POM, resulting in a sound profile that is duller and rounder.
When comparing the two, it becomes evident that both materials aim for a deeper sound profile, albeit through different acoustic characteristics. The POM used in the Aniya is reputed for its clear yet muted sound, creating an engaging tactile experience. Meanwhile, the nylon of the Lotus (Heavy) is designed to absorb sound, resulting in a more mellow sound quality that can feel more plush. Thus, while both aim for similar auditory outcomes—deeper and more enriched sound profiles—the means by which they achieve it differ, which could appeal to distinct user preferences.
Ultimately, despite the differences in materials, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound experience due to the inherent designs of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is emphasized in both cases for bottoming out sounds, while the top housing affects release sounds. Whether using the Aniya's POM or the Lotus's nylon, users should anticipate a satisfying auditory experience when pressing each key. Both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking a fulfilling and immersive keyboard experience, ensuring that regardless of material, the engaged user will enjoy satisfying auditory and tactile feedback with each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a more effortless typing experience, particularly during extended use or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. This difference in force means that while the Aniya allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue, the Lotus offers a more pronounced tactile feedback. Therefore, the Aniya is the lighter option, and the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier one, catering to varying user preferences regarding typing dynamics and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we find a slight difference: the Aniya has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Aniya the shorter option between the two, appealing to gamers or users who prefer a more responsive feel with reduced actuation time. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy), with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial typing experience, appreciated by those who favor a deeper keystroke that feels less abrupt. While both switches show variation in travel distances, this difference allows users to select based on their personal preferences, either for speed or a richer tactile feedback.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is characterized by a harmonious blend of auditory qualities. Its clacky nature provides a crisp, bright sound that is not overly piercing, making for a pleasant typing experience. The Aniya leans towards a pronounced clack but maintains a well-rounded volume that's engaging without being overwhelming. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is distinguished by its bright, resonant sound, although specific descriptors for its sound profile are absent. The combination of these factors suggests that while both switches are audible, the Aniya offers a nuanced clackiness, whereas the Lotus may produce more resonant tones, contributing to a lively auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the PH Studio Aniya switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth tactile feedback, aided by materials like Ly and possibly factory lubrication. Descriptors such as creamy, polished, and silky emphasize the effortless key travel and minimized friction that users can expect, leading to a delightful typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is noted for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, offering a bounciness that enhances the feedback during keystrokes; however, details about the specific feel characteristics are lacking. Thus, while the Aniya delivers a smooth and refined typing sensation, the Lotus promises an engaging experience with its heavier weight.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches promise distinctive auditory and tactile experiences. The Aniya excels in providing a balanced, clacky sound coupled with buttery smoothness, whereas the Lotus offers a bright, resonant sound with a bouncy actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel; however, one can anticipate similar exhilarating experiences with both switches, albeit expressed through different auditory and tactile qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in terms of weight, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, enjoy a smooth and polished typing experience, and appreciate a clacky yet not overwhelming auditory profile, the Aniya switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its 50g bottom-out force and creamy feel, combined with a bright sound, make it well-suited for typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial feel and enjoy a bright, resonant sound that provides a bouncy feedback in each keystroke, the Lotus (Heavy) switch would be more to your liking. The heavier 62.5g force offers a satisfying resistance that some typists and gamers find enhances their engagement with the keyboard. In essence, consider the type of experience you wish to have while typing; if you lean towards lightweight and smooth, go for Aniya, but if you prefer a more impactful tactile experience with a bit more weight, choose the Lotus (Heavy).
Mentioned in this article
