PH Studio Aniya vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Aniya is favored for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being excessively loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke is a delight for users. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch lacks a distinct reputation but may appeal to those looking for a different typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you. Selecting a mechanical keyboard switch ultimately boils down to personal preference, typing style, and desired sound profile.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
One key difference between the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Cream Blue is that the Aniya utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings, while the Cream Blue uses nylon for both. POM is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, which can give a unique typing experience. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. This difference in material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Another point of comparison between the two housing materials is the impact they have on the typing experience. While POM housings in the Aniya provide a deep and unique sound profile, the Cream Blue's nylon housings offer a fuller and deeper sound. This difference in sound profile can influence how satisfying typing on each switch feels. Additionally, the softer nature of nylon can potentially lead to a smoother typing experience compared to the more muted feel of POM.
However, despite their differences, both the Aniya and Cream Blue housing materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience. Whether it be the POM's muted and deep sound profile or the nylon's fuller and rounder sound, both materials contribute to creating a satisfying typing feel. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings also adds to the unique characteristics of each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both housing materials have their own strengths and can offer a pleasant typing experience depending on personal preferences.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we can see a clear difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Aniya requires 50 grams while the Cream Blue demands a heavier 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Aniya would be the better option. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is preferred for a more tactile typing experience, the Cream Blue would be the ideal choice. Overall, the Aniya offers a lighter feel throughout, while the Cream Blue provides a heavier touch for users seeking a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Cream Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya's shorter travel distance may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press response.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch differ greatly in their subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the Aniya produces a more clacky and moderately high-pitched sound, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Cream Blue switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. When it comes to feel, the Aniya is praised for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. As for the Cream Blue, information about its feel is also unknown, making it challenging to evaluate its tactile qualities. Overall, if a user enjoys a clacky sound profile and a smooth typing experience, they may find satisfaction with the Aniya linear switch. However, due to the lack of information on the Cream Blue switch, it is difficult to determine how it would compare in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force, a pronounced clacky sound profile, and a smooth, medium-light actuation, the Aniya may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a different sound and feel profile, the Cream Blue could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what you value most in a keyboard switch - whether it's sound, feel, or actuation force. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in your typing experience.
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