PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Mamba mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aniya is known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material. On the other hand, the Mamba, paying tribute to Kobe Bryant, offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. While the Aniya is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'High-pitched', the Mamba is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own appeal and advantages, making them suitable for different typing 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
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Mamba both bring unique sound profiles to their switches. The Aniya features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deep and relatively muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Mamba utilizes a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, resulting in a pleasant and slightly brighter sound. While the bottom housing material may have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the top housing material can influence the sound when a key is released.
One key difference between the two housing materials is the specific blend used in the Mamba's top housing. The Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offers a unique sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. In contrast, the Aniya's POM top housing creates a more subdued and deeper sound. Despite this difference, both housing materials aim to provide a pleasing and unique sound experience for users. Whether you prefer a slightly brighter sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both options cater to different preferences.
While the top and bottom housings of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Mamba may be different, they both aim to enhance the overall sound profile of the switch. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the sound and feel of key presses differently. Whether you prefer the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound or the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials may come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smoother and more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Mamba switch has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Aniya switch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users looking for a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Mamba switch for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aniya has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Mamba, which may result in quicker response times and a more abrupt feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Mamba offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper keypress experience that some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing or gaming experience, with the Aniya promising a quicker response and the Mamba offering a more substantial keypress sensation.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 often described as having a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is not excessively loud. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is said to offer a more neutral and thocky sound, delivering a deep and rich sound when pressed. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to varying preferences, with the Aniya leaning towards a more defined and pronounced sound while the Mamba provides a smoother and richer auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and polished typing sensation, offering a smooth and buttery keystroke experience that feels like effortlessly melting into each keypress. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switch provides a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. Both switches offer a refined and smooth typing experience, with the Aniya focusing more on a silky and gliding sensation while the Mamba provides a gentler and approachable feel for most users.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. Those who prefer a sharper and more defined sound profile with a smooth and buttery typing sensation may gravitate towards the Aniya, while individuals looking for a neutral and rich sound with a gentle typing experience may prefer the Mamba. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Durock Mamba linear switch, you should first consider your preference in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth and buttery typing experience, then the Aniya switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience that falls within the safe middle-ground zone, then the Mamba switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference and typing style.
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