PH Studio Aniya vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch, known for its harmonious sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound, offers a smooth feel and medium-light actuation for a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have a specific standout feature but is categorized as average. While the Aniya switch may be preferred for its creamy and resonant qualities, the Milk Blue switch may appeal to those looking for a different typing experience. Let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Milk Blue switches offer different characteristics when it comes to sound profiles. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate material used in the Milk Blue switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Aniya offers a similar deep and unique sound profile as the top housing, while the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing results in a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer nature.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of switches can lead to a split in the qualities they bring to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, which is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released, influencing the overall typing experience. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in both the top and bottom of a switch can significantly affect the sound and feel of the typing experience for users.
While the POM and polycarbonate housing materials offer distinct sound profiles, both the Aniya and Milk Blue switches provide users with a pleasing typing experience. The POM material used in the Aniya switch creates a unique and deep sound, while the polycarbonate material in the Milk Blue switch results in a crisper and higher-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. Both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience and showcase how different materials can lead to distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the Aniya switch may feel easier to press initially, both switches will require the same amount of force when fully pressed down. The lighter actuation force of the Aniya switch may make it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Milk Blue switch may appeal to those who prefer a more solid and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch differ slightly, with the Aniya having a shorter distance of 3.2mm compared to the Milk Blue's 4mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Aniya offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Aniya for its faster actuation, allowing for rapid key presses during gameplay. On the other hand, the Milk Blue provides a slightly deeper keypress, which some users may find more satisfying for typing tasks. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Milk 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience without being excessively loud. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not available. When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is lauded for its creamy and polished sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with medium-light actuation. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Milk Blue switch are not provided. In conclusion, the Aniya linear switch excels in both sound and feel qualities, making it a solid choice for those seeking a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. While the specific traits of the Outemu Milk Blue switch remain unknown, opting for a switch with similar sound and feel characteristics to the Aniya may yield comparable results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a harmonious balance of sound with a more pronounced clacky profile and a smooth feel, then the Aniya switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with an undefined sound profile and an unavailable bottom-out force, the Milk Blue switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Mentioned in this article
