PH Studio Aniya vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Aniya linear switch stands out for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound that is not overly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke on the Aniya switch is a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is designed for a more subtle typing experience, offering gentle tactility without sacrificing feedback. These lightweight switches provide a muted sound profile, ideal for quiet professionalism in office settings. Each switch has its own unique qualities and benefits, catering to 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Mini i utilize unique housing materials to create distinctive sound profiles. The Aniya's POM top housing provides a deep and relatively muted sound, while the Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. While both materials aim to absorb sound for a more pleasant typing experience, the POM top housing may produce a slightly different sound compared to the nylon top housing. However, both switches aim to create a unique and pleasing sound profile for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aniya's POM bottom housing also creates a deep and muted sound, while the Mini i's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Just like with the top housing, the choice of material for the bottom housing can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the POM bottom housing may have a slightly different effect compared to the nylon bottom housing, both aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a unique sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials used in the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Mini i switches play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the POM and nylon materials may have their own unique qualities, both switches ultimately aim to create a pleasant and satisfying typing experience. Whether users prefer a deeper and muted sound profile or a fuller and rounder sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that users are looking for in their typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch reveals some similarities and differences. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches have a relatively light actuation force, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the Aniya has a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Mini i, which may provide a bit more resistance when typing. In terms of bottom out force, both switches require the same amount of force, ensuring a consistent typing experience in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a user prefers a slightly heavier actuation force or a lighter one.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Mini i has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may affect the feel of the switch when pressed. Those who prefer a more abrupt and responsive keypress may lean towards the Aniya, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Mini i. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 slightly high-pitched and clacky sound profile, offering a crisp and bright auditory experience without being overpoweringly loud. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for a variety of environments. Both switches provide a satisfying feedback when typing, albeit in slightly different ways, allowing for an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the choice made. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aniya linear switch is praised for its creamy and polished feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy and easy-to-press, providing a gentle resistance and a lively feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their respective qualities, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may differ in sound and feel, they both offer a pleasant typing experience with their unique characteristics. Whether you prefer a slightly clacky sound with a smooth feel or a neutral sound with a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation, both switches provide quality options for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and the Mini i will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired, but rest assured that both switches will deliver satisfying results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, medium-light actuation, the Aniya switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted sound profile with gentle tactility and lightweight keys for comfortable typing in a quiet office environment, the Mini i switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing experience.
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