PH Studio Aniya vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya switch, with its balanced sound profile leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound, provides a pleasant auditory experience without being overwhelmingly loud. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make typing a delight. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch, known for its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, offers a different typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a lower-pitched and stiffer feel. Both switches have their own strengths, but ultimately, the choice between them would depend on individual 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Black, both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The POM top housing of the Aniya creates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile, whereas the nylon top housing of the MX Black elicits a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer plastic composition. However, both switches share similarities in that they both aim to create a pleasant sound experience for users, albeit through different means.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the POM material used in the Aniya contributes to its unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the MX Black helps create a fuller and deeper sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches prioritize the overall sound experience by utilizing materials that enhance the typing sensation and auditory feedback for users.
Overall, the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Black play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the Aniya leans towards a more muted and deeper sound profile with its POM housing, the MX Black opts for a fuller and deeper sound with its nylon housing. However, both switches prioritize creating a pleasant typing experience for users by utilizing materials that enhance sound quality and feedback. In essence, whether it's the top or bottom housing, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their unique housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the MX Black features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a stronger push feel. While the Aniya offers a lighter touch, the MX Black offers a heavier and more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, so those looking for quick and precise keystrokes may favor the Aniya. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the MX Black may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer their own advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of 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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 offers a more pronounced clacky sound profile that is not excessively high-pitched, providing a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound, offering a classic textured smoothness that is deep and familiar. Both switches provide satisfying sound profiles when typing, but the Aniya leans towards a sharper and more clacky sound, while the MX Black offers a more mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is praised for its smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material and a medium-light actuation force. The Cherry MX Black linear switch, on the other hand, is described as textured and stiff, requiring more force to actuate and providing noticeable friction when pressed. While the Aniya switch focuses on a silky and polished feel, the MX Black switch leans towards a more substantial and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy feel with a medium-light actuation force, while the MX Black offers a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the sharper, smoother Aniya or the deeper, more tactile MX Black, knowing that both switches will deliver satisfying results for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound and a smooth, medium-light actuation, the Aniya switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep, low-pitched sound and a textured, slightly stiff feel, the MX Black switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing experience preferences. Consider these factors carefully before making your final choice.
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