PH Studio Aniya vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it's clear that they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya switch is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a delight for users. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, offering a textured and invigorating feel. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream both feature POM top and bottom housings, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to other materials. This similarity in housing materials results in a consistent sound experience when pressing down on the switch. However, the specific design and construction of the top and bottom housings may affect how the sound is perceived when keypresses are made. The Aniya's POM top and bottom housings may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the NovelKeys Cream, even though they share the same material.
In terms of construction, the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream may differ in how the qualities of the POM housing material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This means that variations in the design and manufacturing of the top and bottom housings can result in subtle differences in typing feel and sound profile between the two switches, despite both using POM material.
Ultimately, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. While both switches utilize POM top and bottom housings to create a deeper and more muted sound, differences in construction and design could result in varying typing feels for each switch. Whether you prefer a more pronounced bottom-out sound or a different key release sound, understanding how the housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience can help you make an informed decision when choosing between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aniya requires 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the NovelKeys Cream needs 55 grams to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out. This makes the Aniya a more lightweight option, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a medium-heavy typing experience, suited for those who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preference, with the Aniya offering a lighter touch and the NovelKeys Cream providing a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the NovelKeys Cream offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers, due to its more rapid actuation. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for individuals who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 best characterized as having a clacky and slightly high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a deeper sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Aniya. Both switches offer resonant qualities, ensuring a clean and sharp sound profile during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and silky sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. The stem material of Ly contributes to its remarkably smooth feel, making every keystroke delightful. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. While the Aniya switch emphasizes smoothness and effortless keystrokes, the Cream switch focuses on a fluid and invigorating typing experience with firm actuation force and pronounced feedback.
In conclusion, if you prefer a switch with a clacky sound profile and a smooth, buttery feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you gravitate towards a switch with a deeper sound profile and a fluid, invigorating feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, providing users with a variety of options based on their preferences for their typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, you should base your decision on your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a medium-light actuation with a more pronounced clacky sound profile, along with a smooth and delightful typing experience, then the Aniya switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a heftier linear typing experience, along with a smooth and buttery keystroke sensation, then the NovelKeys Cream switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences for sound and feel to ensure a satisfying keyboard typing experience.
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