PH Studio Aniya vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Aniya is praised for its harmoniously balanced sound profile, leaning towards a clacky yet not overwhelmingly loud experience. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura boasts a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of pronounced tactility without being overpowering. While the Aniya is described as 'clacky' and 'creamy', the Purple Sakura is characterized as 'buttery' and 'snappy'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Polycarbonate
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
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Aniya featuring POM top and bottom housings while the Purple Sakura opts for polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POM housings of the Aniya create a deeper and more muted sound profile, suitable for those looking for a softer typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more distinct typing sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura provides a fuller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Aniya, appealing to users who enjoy a more immersive typing experience.
While the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura differ in their sound profiles, they both offer unique benefits to users. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Purple Sakura allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the keyboard. On the other hand, the POM top and bottom housings of the Aniya contribute to a pleasing and unique sound experience, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Despite the differences in materials, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience, tailored to their individual preferences.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when you release the key. This means that users of the PH Studio Aniya will experience the qualities of the POM bottom housing upon pressing down on a key, while those using the Sarokeys Purple Sakura will feel the effects of the nylon bottom housing. Similarly, the sound profiles created by the POM and polycarbonate top housings will be more pronounced upon key release, allowing users to appreciate the unique characteristics of each material. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences, catering to a wide range of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams to bottom out, while the Purple Sakura needs 60 grams. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Aniya switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier forces. Both switches offer different options for users based on their preferences, ensuring that they can achieve their desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches are equal. This allows for consistent typing experience regardless of the switch chosen.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 known for its slightly clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature, suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches deliver pleasing sound profiles, but the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clackiness while the Purple Sakura remains mild and neutral.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aniya is celebrated for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with every keystroke. In contrast, the Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as buttery and snappy, providing a fluid and responsive typing experience. While the Aniya focuses on a silky feel with medium-light actuation, the Purple Sakura emphasizes a more responsive and gentle typing sensation.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya offers a slightly clacky sound paired with a creamy and polished typing experience, while the Purple Sakura delivers a neutral sound with a buttery and snappy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches provide excellent options for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether choosing the Aniya or the Purple Sakura, you can expect a quality switch that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light switch with a clacky sound profile and a smooth, creamy feel, the Aniya may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a neutral sound profile and a buttery, snappy feel, the Purple Sakura could be the ideal option. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel to make the decision that best suits your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take your time to test them out and see which one aligns best with your typing style.
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