PH Studio Aniya vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is widely recognized for its harmonious sound profile, offering a balanced mix of clackiness and smoothness. With a medium-light actuation and a pronounced clacky sound, this switch provides a pleasurable auditory experience without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of its standout features. While the Aniya boasts characteristics such as being high-pitched and creamy, the Tom's categorization is not as defined. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom offer contrasting sound profiles and aesthetic features. The POM top housing of the Aniya creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, providing a pleasing and unique typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the switch. While both materials excel in creating distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound depth and clarity.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the Aniya mirrors the sound profile of the top housing, providing a consistent deep and muted typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Tom offers a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile, creating a different typing sensation compared to the Aniya. The combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch, with each material contributing unique qualities to the typing experience.
While the Aniya and Tom utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the overall impact on the typing experience is comparable. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a balance of sound depth and clarity, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material composition and resulting sound profiles, both switches excel in providing a pleasing and unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Whether it be the deep and muted sound of POM or the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate, both the Aniya and Tom offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a light typing experience. In contrast, the Tom switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Tom switch for a more substantial typing experience. However, for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Aniya switch would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a significant role in the typing experience and individual preferences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Tom tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a quick response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Aniya switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing may opt for the Tom switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Tom 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 more clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is not excessively loud. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unknown. The Aniya switch offers a harmonious balance in sound, ensuring a pleasant typing experience with its pronounced yet not overwhelming sound. When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is characterized by its creamy and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Tom switch is unknown. Overall, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a slightly clacky sound, the Aniya linear switch would be a suitable option. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Tom switch are not provided, it's advisable to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience, depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and light actuation, with a clacky sound profile that is not overwhelmingly loud, then the Aniya may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a specific bottom out force, the Tom switch might be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision based on what best aligns with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and Tom switches will depend on what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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