PH Studio Aniya vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Silent Red both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aniya linear switch from PH Studio is praised for its harmonious sound profile that leans towards a clacky sound without being excessively loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, it provides a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red is known for its silent operation while maintaining the satisfying feel of the classic MX Red switch. This makes it ideal for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter typing experience is desired. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
The PH Studio Aniya and the Cherry MX Silent Red both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Aniya featuring POM housings and the MX Silent Red featuring nylon housings. Although both housings aim to create a pleasing and unique sound profile, they do so in slightly different ways. The POM housings of the Aniya produce a deeper and more muted sound, while the nylon housings of the MX Silent Red elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. Ultimately, both housing materials work to absorb sound and create a rounder sound overall.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Aniya's POM bottom housing and the MX Silent Red's nylon bottom housing serve to impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the overall typing experience. This means that when pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, influencing the sound and feel of the keypress. The differences in housing materials between the Aniya and the MX Silent Red can result in varying experiences in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
When it comes to the top housing of the switches, the impact is more noticeable when releasing a key. The POM top housing of the Aniya and the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red play a significant role in determining the sound profile when a key is let go. While both materials aim to create a deeper and fuller sound, the specific properties of each plastic will result in slightly different sound profiles. Overall, the top housing of a switch plays a key role in the overall typing experience and can greatly influence the sound produced during use.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the Aniya is lighter in both aspects. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the MX Silent Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams of force, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Aniya provides a lighter touch for those who prefer less resistance, making it ideal for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly heavier actuation force for a more pronounced typing feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Aniya switch with the shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch with the longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different advantages depending on personal preference, with the Aniya providing a quicker response and the MX Silent Red offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming preferences.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 slightly high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound, ensuring a quieter typing environment. If you prefer a more pronounced and audible sound, the Aniya switch would be the better choice, whereas the MX Silent Red switch is ideal for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is praised for its creamy and polished typing sensation, offering a smooth and buttery keystroke that effortlessly glides under your fingers. Conversely, the MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, potentially providing a slightly different tactile feedback compared to the smoother feel of the Aniya switch. If you prefer a silky and refined typing experience, the Aniya switch would be more suitable, while the MX Silent Red switch may appeal to those who prefer a bit of texture in their keystrokes.
Overall, if you prioritize a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a creamy and polished feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a muted and low-pitched sound with a slightly textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them would depend on your specific preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using your keyboard. If you value a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, medium-light actuation for a delightful typing experience, the Aniya may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prioritize a significantly quieter sound profile, particularly for noise-sensitive environments, the MX Silent Red would be the better option with its silent operation. The Aniya offers a more tactile and audible typing experience, while the MX Silent Red provides a quieter and more subtle feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can make an informed decision based on these factors.
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