PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, and the PH Studio Aniya and HMX Macchiato are two exemplary linear switches that cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Aniya, developed by BSUN, is celebrated for its delightful balance in sound, producing a pronounced yet not overpowering clacky tone that many users find satisfying. Its medium-light actuation coupled with a Ly stem material offers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a nuanced auditory feedback along with a tactile delight. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, engineered by YG Studio, is tailored for enthusiasts who prioritize a silky smooth feel with a bright sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a quieter but still responsive typing environment. Both switches have their unique charms; while the Aniya emphasizes a more resonant auditory experience, the Macchiato focuses on delivering an effortlessly smooth action. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Macchiato, both models utilize distinct yet somewhat analogous materials that influence their sound profile. The Aniya employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for producing a pleasing and unique sound characterized by deeper tones and relative muteness. In contrast, the Macchiato uses nylon for its top and bottom housings, which is described as a classic switch housing material. Similar to POM, nylon is softer than many traditional plastics, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is notably duller and rounder. Thus, while the specific materials differ—POM versus nylon—they each facilitate a sound that leans towards a muted, rich auditory experience.
In examining the way each housing material influences the typing experience, the Aniya’s POM and the Macchiato’s nylon share a common emphasis on sound absorption. Both materials contribute significantly to a deeper sound when the keys are pressed and released. The effect of the bottom housing is particularly crucial, as it primarily dictates the bottom-out sound and feel. For the Aniya, the POM bottom housing helps to maintain the muted sound profile, while nylon’s inherent properties in the Macchiato produce a similar effect. Therefore, both switches allow for a satisfying auditory feedback loop, albeit through different materials. This indicates that while there is a variation in the material composition, the resulting sound experiences can be closely aligned.
Furthermore, the split impact of the top and bottom housings is evident in both models, suggesting that the differences may not drastically alter the overall user experience. The top housing in the Aniya, made of POM, will influence the sound quality upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the Macchiato performs a similar function, albeit with its own tonal characteristics. Thus, despite the materials being different, the end results are comparable due to each housing's capacity to produce lower, rounder sound profiles. This diversity in material composition ultimately enriches the range of options for users, allowing them to select a switch that resonates more with their personal preferences without straying far from the acoustic results they seek.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch are notably similar, both featuring an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing them as light switches. This consistency in force means that users will experience the same typing dynamics—both switches allow for relatively easy keystrokes and provide a gentle push feel that can be ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. Since both switches have the same specifications, users can expect a similar tactile experience, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prefer lighter keyboard options. Ultimately, both the Aniya and the Macchiato prioritize comfort and ease of use, appealing to users looking for a more forgiving typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, it becomes clear that these options cater to different preferences in key feel and responsiveness. The Aniya features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a shorter option that enhances responsiveness, ideal for gamers or those who prefer quicker actuation. In contrast, the Macchiato has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which provides a more traditional and deeper keystroke that some users might find more satisfying despite being slightly less responsive. Consequently, if you're seeking quicker response times, the Aniya's 3.2 mm travel distance is the better choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced key press may gravitate towards the Macchiato's 4 mm.
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 Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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 notable for its balanced and nuanced auditory profile. It delivers a distinctly clacky sound without reaching excessive extremes, making it a pleasant choice for many typists. The overall sound is crisp and bright, producing a sharp percussive note that is enjoyable yet not overwhelmingly loud, which can be ideal for both personal use and quieter work environments. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato linear switch lacks a detailed description of its sound profile. This highlights an element of uncertainty regarding its auditory qualities, leaving potential users with a question mark concerning its acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch truly shines with its exceptionally smooth keystrokes. Known for its creamy texture, this switch likely benefits from factory lubrication and specific materials, offering a buttery and polished tactile experience. Users will encounter minimal resistance, making each keystroke feel almost effortless. The silky sensation ensures that fingers glide over the keys smoothly, contributing to a satisfying typing journey. The Macchiato switch, however, does not have information available regarding its tactile feel, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares to the Aniya in this regard.
In summary, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is celebrated for its harmonious balance in sound and smooth feel, the HMX Macchiato linear switch presents a knowledge gap in both sound and tactile characteristics. The Aniya provides a clacky yet enjoyable auditory experience paired with smooth and creamy keystrokes, making it a compelling choice for typists who prioritize both sound and feel. However, without clear insights into the Macchiato’s sound and feel, it poses a question mark for potential users seeking an equal experience. For those who appreciate a silky typing sensation, either switch may still deliver satisfying results, though the specific experience may vary depending on the unknown qualities of the Macchiato.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Macchiato linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you lean towards a typing experience that combines a pleasant auditory profile with smooth keystrokes, the Aniya is an excellent option. Its harmonious balance of a clacky and pronounced sound profile, complemented by a creamy and polished feel, makes it ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback without being overwhelmed by noise. On the other hand, if you prioritize an exceptionally silky typing experience and a bright sound profile, the Macchiato should be your go-to. While both switches feature the same bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Aniya's more pronounced sound characteristics and smoother texture might cater well to users who appreciate an engaging auditory experience, whereas the Macchiato is perfect for users who seek a more refined yet brighter sound without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the sensory experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard.
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