PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch, known for its harmonious sound profile, offers a balanced blend of clackiness and smoothness. With a medium-light actuation, every keystroke is a pleasant experience for users looking for a creamy and resonant typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its uniquely pronounced yet balanced tactility, coupled with a jelly-like sound signature. Ideal for those seeking a mild and polished typing experience with accented tactility. While these brief descriptions provide an overview of each switch's characteristics, diving deeper into the nuances of each will help you determine the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Medium Tactile switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Medium Tactile's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Medium Tactile switch also allows for more transparency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Aniya's POM bottom housing contributes to a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing results in a fuller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences, both the Aniya and the Medium Tactile switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound quality. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities allows for a more nuanced and customizable typing experience based on the housing materials used in each part of the switch.
Overall, the choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as between POM and nylon for the bottom housing, ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Aniya and the Medium Tactile switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing materials. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches provide high-quality options for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Aniya is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Medium Tactile has an actuation force of Unknown grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches means that typing on the Aniya may feel lighter and require less effort, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which makes it slightly shorter compared to the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya offers a quicker keypress response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile provides a deeper keypress with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or general use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile 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 and slightly high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a jelly-like sound signature with balanced tactility. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound, the Medium Tactile provides a more unique and softer sound experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Aniya being more traditional and the Medium Tactile offering a more innovative sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material. This results in a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, making every keystroke effortless and delightful. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a more accented and stepped tactile feel, providing a balance between tactility and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Aniya focusing on a luxurious smoothness and the Medium Tactile adding a touch of tactility to the typing experience.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Aniya leans towards a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, the Medium Tactile offers a jelly-like sound signature and a more accented tactile feel. Both switches provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience, and choosing between them would ultimately depend on personal preference for sound and feel. Depending on your preference, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch, as they both offer high-quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you value a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a lighter actuation force, then the Aniya linear switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a balanced tactility, an accented tactile feel, and a medium-heavy actuation force, then the Durock Medium Tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard switches for the best typing experience.
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