PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Aniya, known for its harmonious clacky sound profile and smooth feel, provides a medium-light actuation that makes typing a pleasure. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis boasts a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound, the Phalaenopsis offers a thocky and bassy typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Phalaenopsis play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. While both switches feature POM top housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound, and polycarbonate bottom housings, which produce a sharper and crisper sound, the distribution of these materials differs between the two models. This results in a unique sound experience for each switch, with the qualities of the housing materials being split between the top and bottom of the switch. The Aniya and Phalaenopsis switches showcase how subtle variations in housing materials can greatly impact the overall sound profile and feel of a keyboard.
The use of POM in the top housing of the Aniya switch results in a more muffled sound compared to the crisp and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Phalaenopsis. On the other hand, both switches feature polycarbonate bottom housings, which contribute to a clearer and more impactful bottom-out sound and feel. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the material allows for better light diffusion. Despite these differences, both switches highlight the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience for users.
Overall, the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Phalaenopsis demonstrate how small variations can lead to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. While the Aniya features POM top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper sound profile, the Phalaenopsis employs polycarbonate top and bottom housings for a sharper and clearer sound. The distribution of these materials between the top and bottom of the switch further emphasizes the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience. By considering the qualities of different housing materials, keyboard enthusiasts can customize their setup to achieve the desired sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a light actuation force of 42 grams for the Aniya and 37 grams for the Phalaenopsis. Additionally, both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of force required. The lighter actuation force of these switches makes them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces fatigue on the fingers. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier actuation forces. In this case, both the Aniya and Phalaenopsis switches offer a lighter typing experience, which may appeal to individuals looking for a smoother and more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the Aniya offering speed and the Phalaenopsis providing a more substantial 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, producing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The choice of sound profile ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Aniya offering a more pronounced and percussive sound, while the Phalaenopsis provides a deeper and more satisfying tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery key presses that feel like effortless gliding across the keys. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile bump with two stages of feedback for a more controlled typing sensation. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, with the Aniya focusing on smoothness and the Phalaenopsis highlighting a distinct tactile feel.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Aniya provides a clacky and smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump at a lighter actuation force. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a delightful typing experience catering to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper clacky sound with smooth key presses or a deeper bassy sound with tactile feedback, both the Aniya and Phalaenopsis switches deliver excellent performance for their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and clacky sound profile along with a medium-light actuation force, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a pleasant auditory experience without being overly loud, paired with a remarkably smooth feel for a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a discernible tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be more suitable for you. With a satisfying and tactile bump, typing becomes effortless and minimizes finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and Phalaenopsis switches boils down to your preference for sound profile and typing feel. Consider what characteristics are most important to you in a switch, and choose accordingly to enhance your typing experience.
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