PH Studio Aniya vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya is praised for its balanced sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke on the Aniya is a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches are known for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a soft and seductive feel with a thocky sound. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different users, but ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. 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
57g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the SP-Star Meteor Orange both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Aniya features POM top and bottom housings, resulting in a pleasing and deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials produce a deep sound, the POM in Aniya may offer a slightly different muted quality compared to the Nylon in the Meteor Orange.
In terms of sound production, the differences in housing materials between the Aniya and the Meteor Orange contribute to the overall typing experience. The POM housings in the Aniya provide a unique sound that leans towards the deeper side, while also offering a more muted tone. Conversely, the nylon housings in the Meteor Orange create a fuller and deeper sound profile with a rounder and duller tone due to its softer nature. Both materials excel in absorbing sound, but the specific characteristics of POM and nylon result in distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
When considering the impact of housing materials on typing feel and sound, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall switch design. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when the key is released. This means that the qualities of POM and nylon will be felt and heard differently during keypresses, with the Aniya and Meteor Orange offering distinct tactile and auditory feedback based on their housing materials. Ultimately, users can expect a unique typing experience with either switch, depending on their preference for sound profile and feel.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Aniya also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Meteor Orange's bottom out force of 57 grams, making the latter switch slightly heavier. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Aniya switch make it ideal for those looking for a smoother and easier typing experience for extended periods, whether for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch offers a slightly more substantial push feel due to its higher bottom out force, providing a more tactile typing experience but still maintaining a relatively light actuation force. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Aniya being lighter overall and the Meteor Orange being slightly heavier, catering to different preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. The Aniya's 3.2 mm distance may provide a quicker response time, making it an ideal choice for gamers looking for faster reaction speeds. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's 4 mm travel distance may offer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 offers a clacky and slightly high-pitched sound profile, giving a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, ensuring a gentle and subtle typing sound. Both switches offer pleasant sound profiles, but if you prefer a sharper and more pronounced clacky sound, the Aniya switch would be the preferred choice.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya linear switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience due to its creamy and polished attributes, allowing for effortless keystrokes and a silky sensation. In comparison, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but if you prefer a smoother and more refined feel, the Aniya switch would be the optimal choice.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya switch is known for its clacky sound profile and creamy, polished feel, providing a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch offers a gentle and neutral sound profile, accompanied by a mild and polished typing feel for a softer and more approachable experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer excellent options for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth and medium-light actuation force, the Aniya may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and soft tactility with a neutral sound profile and a medium-light bottom out force, the Meteor Orange switch could be more suited to your tastes. Remember to consider both sound and feel characteristics when making your decision, as these factors will greatly impact your overall typing experience. Ultimately, selecting the switch that aligns with your preferences will ensure a satisfying typing experience for hours on end.
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