PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya and KTT Mint are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya, known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Mint provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. While the Aniya is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Resonant', the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, offering different typing sensations. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Mint offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound profile and texture. The Aniya's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Mint's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Conversely, the Aniya's POM bottom housing continues the trend of a deep and muted sound, while the Mint's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound. Overall, the Aniya prioritizes a pleasing and unique sound experience, while the Mint focuses on a clear and resonant sound profile.
In terms of material composition, the Aniya uses POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and muted sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the KTT Mint utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, creating a mix of sharpness and depth in sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting compatibility in the Mint, adding a visual element to the switch that is not present in the Aniya. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between them may come down to personal preference for sound clarity and depth.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in sound production. The qualities of the bottom housing contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction means that the choice between POM and nylon for the bottom housing, as well as polycarbonate and POM for the top housing, can significantly affect the overall typing experience. Ultimately, understanding the characteristics of each housing material is essential in selecting a switch that aligns with individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya is the lighter of the two, with an actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Mint's 45 grams. Additionally, the Aniya has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mint requires 53 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, making them suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. The Aniya offers a slightly lighter touch, which may appeal to those looking for a gentler keystroke, while the Mint provides a bit more resistance, catering to users who prefer a slightly firmer feel when typing. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches allow for a comfortable typing experience, with users able to choose between a lighter or slightly heavier touch based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Mint linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for speed and agility. On the other hand, the Mint provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or prolonged use. In this case, the Aniya is the shorter option while the Mint is longer, catering to different preferences in key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness in typing or gaming.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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 clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which provides a crisp and sharp auditory experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a more low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, with the Aniya leaning towards a more pronounced and sharp sound, while the Mint provides a more balanced and gentle tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Mint switch, on the other hand, is characterized as mild and polished, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches offer a refined and smooth typing feel, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Aniya offers a more pronounced and clacky sound profile with a remarkably smooth feel, the Mint provides a more mellow and gentle sound with a light and fleeting typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to meet the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, creamy typing experience, the Aniya switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and fleeting typing feel with a milder sound profile, the Mint switch could be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when making your decision. Happy typing!
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