PH Studio Aniya vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct experiences to cater to different preferences. The Aniya is praised for its balanced sound profile, leaning towards a clacky tone without being excessively loud, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, typing on the Aniya is a delight for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Penguin switches from Akko are designed for those seeking a quieter typing experience, making them perfect for office environments. The rounded tactile bump provides satisfying feedback while maintaining a muted profile, ideal for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko Penguin use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Aniya featuring POM for both and the Penguin utilizing nylon. The POM housing in the Aniya creates a unique, deeper, and more muted sound profile, while the nylon in the Penguin elicits a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. Despite the differences in sound characteristics, both materials provide a pleasing typing experience, albeit with distinct tones.
In terms of sound production, the bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role as it impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. With the POM bottom housing in the Aniya and the nylon bottom housing in the Penguin, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nature of these materials. However, when it comes to the top housing, which affects the sound when releasing a key, the POM in the Aniya offers a deeper and more muted sound compared to the rounder and duller sound produced by the nylon in the Penguin.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko Penguin, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of POM in the Aniya creates a distinctive typing experience with deeper and more muted tones, while the nylon in the Penguin delivers a fuller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials depends on individual preference for sound characteristics and typing feel. Despite their differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience thanks to the qualities each housing material brings to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we see that the Aniya is lighter in both aspects. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Aniya provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Penguin. Those who prefer a more effortless typing experience may lean towards the Aniya, while those looking for a more substantial push feel may prefer the Penguin. Both switches offer different levels of resistance that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their typing style and desired level of feedback. Ultimately, the Aniya offers a lighter typing experience, while the Penguin provides a slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. The Aniya has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Penguin offers a slightly longer travel distance, which could provide a more satisfying key press for users who prefer a deeper feel. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Aniya being slightly shorter and the Penguin being slightly longer.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a clacky and somewhat high-pitched auditory experience, giving each keystroke a distinct and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted and neutral sound profile, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is important. Both switches offer different sound qualities, catering to varying preferences in terms of keyboard acoustics.
In terms of feel, the Aniya linear switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation that glides effortlessly under the fingers. In comparison, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is also noted for its polished feel, as well as being mild, feathery, and subtle. These characteristics offer a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and light actuation force, making them comfortable for extended periods of use.
Overall, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky high-pitched sound with a creamy and polished feel, or a muted neutral sound with a mild and feathery sensation, both switches excel in their own right. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific use case to determine which switch would be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a smooth and clacky typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Aniya switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quiet and satisfying tactile feedback with a moderate actuation force, the Penguin switch might be more suitable. Keep in mind the sound profiles, with the Aniya being described as clacky and high-pitched, while the Penguin is muted and neutral. Additionally, factor in the feel of the switches, with the Aniya offering a creamy and polished experience, and the Penguin providing a polished and mild feel. Ultimately, the decision between the Aniya and Penguin switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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