PH Studio Aniya vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer distinct characteristics for different preferences. The Aniya linear switch is praised for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke is a delight for those seeking a creamy and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback for a more textured and bassy feel. Both switches have their unique qualities, offering options for those who prefer either a more pronounced or a gentler typing experience. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Brown switches have some similarities in terms of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both the POM top housing of the Aniya and the nylon top housing of the MX Brown are known for producing a pleasing sound that is on the deeper side. However, the POM housing of the Aniya is described as relatively more muted compared to the nylon housing of the MX Brown. This suggests that while both switches may offer a similar sound experience, the level of sound produced may differ slightly between the two.
In addition to the top housing, the bottom housing materials of the Aniya and the MX Brown also contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. Both the POM bottom housing of the Aniya and the nylon bottom housing of the MX Brown are said to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Again, the main difference lies in the level of sound, with the POM housing of the Aniya being relatively more muted compared to the nylon housing of the MX Brown. This contrast in sound quality may influence the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes evident that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between top and bottom housings highlights the importance of both components in creating a unique typing experience for users of switches like the Aniya and the MX Brown.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Aniya is lighter in both aspects. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Aniya make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the slightly heavier forces of the MX Brown provide a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Aniya is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the MX Brown caters to those who enjoy a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch provides a deeper keystroke feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different advantages based on their travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 Brown 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, giving a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch provides a subtle and gentle audio feedback, resulting in a quieter typing experience with a softer sound profile. While the Aniya leans towards a higher-pitched and resonant sound, the MX Brown offers a bassier and more mellow tone, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch boasts a remarkably smooth sensation during keystrokes, described as creamy, polished, and silky. This smooth feel is achieved through the use of Ly as the stem material and a medium-light actuation force, providing a luxurious typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is noted for its textured feel, offering some friction when pressed, which could be preferable for users who enjoy a bit of tactile feedback during typing. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Aniya emphasizing smoothness and the MX Brown offering a subtle texture for added feedback.
Considering the subjective qualities of the sound and feel of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Aniya excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a smooth, buttery feel, while the MX Brown offers a quieter typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced sound with a luxurious feel or a subtler sound with a bit of texture, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that you can achieve your desired typing sensation with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a medium-light actuation force, the Aniya linear switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a gentler tactile feedback with a quieter, subtler sound profile and don't mind a slightly higher actuation force, the MX Brown tactile switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and actuation force, so consider these aspects carefully before making your decision.
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