PH Studio Aniya vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is important to note that they each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aniya switch, known for its harmonious clacky sound profile, provides a satisfying auditory experience without being overwhelmingly loud. With its smooth feel and medium-light actuation, typing on the Aniya switch is a delight for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch is characterized by its lack of specific features, offering a more neutral 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 PH Studio Aniya features POM housings for both its top and bottom housings, creating a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean uses a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of housing materials in each keyboard switch directly affects the sound produced, with POM and polycarbonate offering different sound profiles based on their stiffness and translucency.
While both the Aniya and the Silent Ocean offer unique sound profiles with their housing materials, they differ in terms of the overall sound produced. The POM housings in the Aniya create a pleasing and muted sound, while the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Silent Ocean produces a sharper and fuller sound. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Silent Ocean also allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in the Silent Ocean absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Aniya.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and the Silent Ocean comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Aniya offers a unique deep and muted sound thanks to its POM housing materials, while the Silent Ocean provides a sharper and fuller sound with its polycarbonate and nylon housing combination. Both keyboards demonstrate how housing materials can significantly impact the sound produced by a switch, with the top and bottom housing materials each contributing to different aspects of the overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a deeper, muted sound or a sharper, fuller sound, both the Aniya and Silent Ocean offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Silent Ocean. The Aniya requires a mere 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a light switch option. Conversely, the Silent Ocean demands 45 grams of force to actuate and a significantly heavier 65 grams to bottom out, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Aniya, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may be inclined to choose the Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the varying actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide users with options to cater to their specific preferences for typing feedback and keypress resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press 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 Outemu Silent Ocean 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 slightly clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which offers a crisp and bright auditory experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aniya switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, attributed to the Ly stem material used in its construction. This results in a silky typing experience with medium-light actuation, making keystrokes feel effortless and enjoyable. Conversely, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch.
Overall, if you were to choose between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch solely based on the information provided, you can expect a more pronounced clacky sound with a smooth and creamy feel from the Aniya switch. However, without specific details about the Silent Ocean switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison on subjective qualities. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out both switches in person to determine which one aligns better with your preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a harmonious balance in sound profile with a slightly clacky sound and smooth feel, the Aniya may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ocean might be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and actuation force to ensure a satisfying typing experience.