PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Lupine both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aniya, a linear switch manufactured by BSUN, stands out for its harmonious sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound that is not excessively loud. The smooth feel and medium-light actuation of the Aniya make every keystroke a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Lupine linear switches are loved for their two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution on pressing down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. These switches also produce a classic clacky sound profile. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience, making them suitable for different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Lupine, one key difference is in the materials used for the top housing. The Aniya utilizes POM for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Lupine opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This disparity in sound profiles is largely attributed to the stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic used in the Lupine, leading to a more resonant sound compared to the POM used in the Aniya.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Aniya and Lupine also diverge in their choice of materials. The Aniya features a POM bottom housing, contributing to a deep and muted sound profile similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Lupine utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Aniya.
While the Aniya and Lupine offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different housing materials, both switches showcase a meticulous attention to detail in their construction. Despite the differences in materials used for the top and bottom housings, both switches prioritize providing a unique and pleasing sound experience for users. As a result, enthusiasts can expect similar levels of craftsmanship and innovation from both the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Lupine, even though their housing materials may vary.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the Durock Lupine linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Lupine, which is unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams while the Lupine needs 62 grams. This means that the Aniya is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Lupine, which is medium in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a softer touch may opt for the Aniya, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Lupine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which makes it shorter than the Durock Lupine linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Aniya switch provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a slightly deeper press, which may be more satisfying for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress feedback. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and response time.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 level of loudness, offering a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a classic clacky sound profile due to its two-stage long springs. While both switches have a similar high-pitched sound characteristic, the Aniya leans slightly toward a more pronounced clacky sound, whereas the Lupine offers a more neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. Whether you prefer a slightly louder and clackier sound or a more neutral and moderate sound, both switches provide enjoyable auditory feedback depending on individual preferences and setup configurations.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is known for its smooth and silky typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material. The medium-light actuation of the Aniya switch makes each keystroke a delight, offering a creamy and polished feel. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, catering to users looking for a gentle and approachable typing feel. Both switches offer smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience with their respective characteristics.
Overall, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a slightly more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, buttery feel with the Aniya switch, or a more neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience with the Lupine switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth feel, the Aniya may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a consistent weight distribution with a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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