PH Studio Aniya vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Purple RGB can significantly influence your typing experience. The Aniya, known for its linear characteristics, offers users a smooth and consistent keystroke without tactile bumps, creating a harmonious balance with its clacky yet not overwhelming sound profile. Its medium-light actuation and creamy feel make it particularly appealing for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches emphasize tactile feedback, providing a pronounced bump that allows users to feel each keypress. This makes them an ideal choice for typists who appreciate a clear sensation of actuation, enhancing the overall typing accuracy. While both switches cater to different preferences—smooth operation versus tactile response—they each bring unique benefits. 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
N/A
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
When evaluating the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, both feature housing compositions that contribute to their distinct audio profiles. The Aniya utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for producing a muted and deeper sound quality. This creates a unique auditory experience that many users find pleasing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB employs nylon for its housing, which is a classic choice in the mechanical switch realm. Nylon's softer nature is key to generating a fuller sound profile; it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and rounder acoustic quality.
While both switches offer a deeper and more muted sound profile, the exact characteristics may differ due to the materials used in their construction. The POM of the Aniya may create a more refined tone because of its specific acoustic properties, while the nylon of the MX Purple RGB is celebrated for its traditional and widely recognized sound quality. The impact of these materials can be felt not just during actuation but also when the key returns to its original position. The Aniya's POM top housing influences the sound produced when releasing the key, adding to the tactile experience that users may find enjoyable. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Purple RGB similarly contributes to the auditory feedback during key release, albeit with its unique nylon characteristics.
Ultimately, while the PH Studio Aniya and Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize different housing materials—POM and nylon, respectively—they both achieve similar desired auditory outcomes through their engineering. Users can expect a deeper sound profile from both switches, though the nuances in character brought forth by POM versus nylon will be apparent in practice. The qualities of each housing type play a crucial role in the overall switch experience, with the bottom housing predominantly affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes more significantly to the sound upon release. For those seeking a rich, fulfilling typing experience, either option provides promising results, but the individual preference for either POM or nylon will significantly influence the final choice.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces while the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB remains unspecified. The Aniya switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a gentler typing experience, especially during extended use in either work or gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Although the bottom out force for the Cherry MX switch remains unknown, if it were comparable to the Aniya's 50 grams, users would likely experience a similar resistance when fully depressing the key. Overall, the Aniya switch is the lighter option, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the heavier choice, catering to different preferences based on typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Aniya the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users seeking quicker response times due to the reduced distance needed to register a key press. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke, providing a more substantial tactile feedback during typing. The difference in travel distances highlights a fundamental preference in switch characteristics: the Aniya offers a more rapid actuation for those who favor speed, while the MX Purple caters to individuals who enjoy a deeper, more deliberate typing experience.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
The sound profile of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is characterized by a pronounced clacky quality, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. Its high-pitched, marbly resonance contributes to an engaging environment without being overpoweringly loud, striking a balance that can be enjoyable during long typing sessions. The Aniya’s sound is suitable for users who appreciate a more percussive effect but want to avoid the harshness that can accompany excessively loud switches. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches have a more refined tactile experience; however, there’s little detail on their sound characteristics. It's reasonable to expect that their distinct tactile feedback might lend them an audible presence during use, but specific nuances of sound remain unknown.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya linear switch excels with a creamy and silky texture that enhances the overall typing experience. This smoothness is attributed to its stem material, which allows for minimal resistance, giving the user a buttery sensation with each keystroke. The medium-light actuation further contributes to the ease of use, making it ideal for both casual typists and gamers who require quick response times. The MX Purple RGB switches, however, boast a tactile bump designed for a more engaged typing experience, yet precise details regarding their tactile sensations and overall smoothness are not provided. While the tactile feel of the Purple RGB may be different from the linear feel of the Aniya, both may offer their respective users satisfying experiences depending on personal preference.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch diverge in sound and feel. The Aniya’s engaging clackiness and smooth typing experience make it a great option for those who prioritize auditory feedback and smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the MX Purple, though lacking in detailed sound and feel descriptions, is known for its tactile attributes that may resonate well with enthusiasts. Ultimately, both switches cater to varying preferences, and while their personal traits differ, they both promise satisfying experiences depending on what features a user values most in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smoother, more fluid typing experience and enjoy a pleasurable auditory feedback without overwhelming noise, the Aniya switch would be an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation and clacky sound profile offer a delightful blend that suits both casual typing and gaming scenarios where quick and responsive keystrokes are needed. On the other hand, if you value a tactile feedback with a defined bump that enhances your typing accuracy, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch might be the right fit for you. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile response and are looking for that unique sensation during typing or gaming, although the exact bottom-out force remains unspecified. Ultimately, consider whether your preference leans more towards a smoother, quieter experience or a tactile, responsive feel, and you’ll make the right choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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