PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a pivotal role in the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Lucky, both of which are linear switches. The Aniya, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile — offering a pleasant auditory experience that leans towards a pronounced clack without being overwhelming. Its Ly-stem material contributes to a wonderfully smooth feel, paired with a medium-light actuation that enhances the joy of typing. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch features a softer, glittery nylon housing that produces a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience. While the Lucky may lack the audibility of the Aniya, it compensates with a unique bouncy feel that's enjoyable in its own right. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize a more pronounced sound and smooth actuation with the Aniya, or a softer and neutral experience with the Lucky. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Lucky in terms of housing materials, both utilize distinct yet complementary configurations that affect their acoustic profiles. The Aniya features POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a cohesive sound signature characterized by muted yet uniquely pleasant tones. POM's dense structure tends to emphasize a deeper sound, contributing to an overall harmonious auditory experience when typing. This consistency in housing materials allows users to have a unified sound signature throughout the keystroke, affording a predictable and satisfying response as they interact with the keyboard.
In contrast, the HMX Lucky employs a nylon top and bottom housing, which introduces a different acoustic quality to the typing experience. Nylon, recognized for its softness compared to other plastics, provides a deeper and fuller sound that is slightly more pronounced than the Aniya's POM. This results from nylon's ability to absorb sound, leading to a rounder and duller profile that enhances the feedback felt during keystrokes. Furthermore, because the Lucky utilizes different materials for each housing, the individual characteristics of the nylon are notably expressed in both the bottom-out feel and the release sound. Users might note that the contrasting materials can lead to distinct moments of auditory feedback during usage, separating the experience into more dynamic sensations.
Despite the differences in material choice, both the POM in the Aniya and the nylon in the Lucky converge on delivering a deeper sound profile that aligns with typists' preferences for a muted, yet enriching auditory backdrop. Where the Aniya's housing lends itself to a consistent tonal quality, the combination of nylon in the Lucky allows for a subtle interplay of sound dynamics, offering a slightly varied experience. Ultimately, users can achieve similar results with both keyboards, appreciating the harmonious typing experiences that stem from thoughtfully chosen materials, whether that results from the silky consistency of POM or the enriching depth of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. The Aniya switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Lucky switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it the lighter option overall. While both switches are on the lighter side, the Aniya offers a slightly heavier feel at full travel, appealing to those who may prefer more feedback when bottoming out. Therefore, if a user is looking for an easy and comfortable typing experience for long gaming sessions or extended work, the HMX Lucky switch would be a better choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Aniya features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Lucky extends to 3.8 mm. This makes the Aniya the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users who favor quicker responsiveness for fast typing or gaming actions. On the other hand, the Lucky, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel, catering to those who appreciate a deeper actuation and a sense of control. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: the Aniya delivers a snappier response, while the Lucky offers a more traditional and potentially satisfying depth.
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 Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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 offers a distinct auditory profile that is both clacky and pleasantly resonant. Users can expect a crisp, bright sound that adds a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, making it more pronounced without being overly loud. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch also shares a clacky quality, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Although both switches have a clacky sound, the Aniya's profile may be more complex with elements of high-pitched and marbly qualities, while the Lucky's sound is more straightforward. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a lively auditory experience, influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch stands out for its creamy and silky typing experience, providing a remarkably smooth and effortless sensation for typists. This delightful tactile feel is attributed not only to the materials used but also potentially to factory lubrication that enhances the overall experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch is characterized by its bouncy, energetic feel, offering a spring-like feedback that gives a lively rebound on key presses. Although both switches provide a silky smoothness, the Aniya leans towards a buttery sensation, while the Lucky adds an element of springiness that could appeal to users who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience.
Combining the insights from both switches, the PH Studio Aniya and HMX Lucky linear switches cater to different preferences despite some overlapping qualities. The Aniya's focus on a well-rounded clacky sound and creamy feel offers a satisfying experience for those who prioritize smoothness and auditory feedback, while the Lucky's engaging rebounciness provides a lively alternative with its own clacky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice will depend on whether the user prefers a more straightforward typing experience or desires an energetic, bouncy feel. Both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, yet they uniquely address different aspects of user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force at 50 grams, the Aniya switch may suit you better, especially if you enjoy a clacky sound profile combined with a creamy and silky typing experience. The balance of auditory feedback in the Aniya switch can be delightful for both casual typing and gaming, providing a satisfying tactile sensation. However, if you prefer an even lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 43 grams, the HMX Lucky switch would be ideal for you. With its bouncy feel and silky, polished finish, this switch offers a lively typing experience that can be both neutral and enjoyable. Additionally, the Lucky's elegant sound profile, while still clacky, leans more towards a refined auditory experience. In summary, if you're aiming for a more pronounced sound and a smooth actuation, go with the Aniya; if you lean towards a lighter touch with dynamic feedback, the Lucky will likely be your best fit.
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