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PH Studio Aniya vs. Outemu Maple Leaf

An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch present unique options for users seeking a specific typing experience. The Aniya linear switch, known for its harmonious sound profile, offers a balance between a pronounced clacky sound and a smooth feel due to its Ly stem material. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks specific defining characteristics, making it a versatile option for those who prefer a more customizable 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

65g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.30 mm

Total travel

3.20 mm

Total travel

3.30 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

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

Single stage lengthened 20mm spring

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

The PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Maple Leaf both have unique housing materials for their switches. The Aniya features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Maple Leaf utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. While both materials elicit deep sound profiles, the POM housings of the Aniya may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the nylon housings of the Maple Leaf.

Despite their differences, both the Aniya and the Maple Leaf utilize top and bottom housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The POM top housing of the Aniya provides a unique sound when pressing down on a key, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf offers a deeper and fuller sound when releasing a key. This shows how the top housing material can have a significant impact on the typing experience, depending on when and how it comes into contact with the switch.

In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials of both the Aniya and the Maple Leaf play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. While the POM and nylon housings may differ in their specific properties, such as softness and sound absorption, they both contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aniya or the Maple Leaf, you can expect a unique sound profile that is influenced by the materials used in the construction of the switches.

Weight

In comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type on for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Aniya switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Maple Leaf switch. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Aniya switch is slightly shorter than the Maple Leaf switch by 0.1 mm, which may provide a slightly quicker response. However, the difference in travel distance is minimal, so both switches would likely provide similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.

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 Maple Leaf 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 is known for its moderately clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown. In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is renowned for its creamy and polished sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal friction. In contrast, the tactile feeling of the Maple Leaf switch is unspecified.

Overall, based on the available information, the Aniya linear switch excels in providing a harmonious balance of a clacky sound profile and creamy, polished feel. While the sound and feel of the Maple Leaf tactile switch remain unknown, it is likely that they will deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel, given the consistent quality standards of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and Maple Leaf switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, so trying out both would be the best way to determine the ideal switch for your typing needs.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium-light actuation, then the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The harmonious balance in sound profile, not excessively high-pitched but still clacky, ensures a pleasant auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more medium-heavy bottom out force and tactile feedback, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value smoothness and lightness or a bit more tactile feedback and heavier keypresses in your mechanical keyboard switches.

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