PH Studio Aniya vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, a clear distinction can be drawn in their sound profiles. The Aniya offers a harmonious balance with a noticeable clacky sound profile that is not overly loud, creating a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches stand out with their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. While the Aniya's smooth feel and medium-light actuation may appeal to those looking for a creamy and polished typing experience, the Salt Ice's light touch and energetic feedback make it a standout choice for users seeking a more resonant and vigorous 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Aniya features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate housings. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, produces a sharper and crisper sound profile in both the top and bottom housing of the Salt Ice. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
While the Aniya and Salt Ice both offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials, they share the commonality of providing a pleasing and distinctive typing experience. The POM housings of the Aniya result in a sound that is deeper and more muted, while the polycarbonate housings of the Salt Ice produce a sharper and higher-pitched sound. However, both switches are designed to offer a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each keystroke.
In terms of functionality, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The characteristics of each material, such as sound profile and stiffness, influence the way the switch feels and sounds during use. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a key role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Understanding the differences between POM and polycarbonate can help users make informed decisions about which housing material best fits their typing preferences and needs.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Aniya switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, as the actuation force is lower. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the difference in actuation force may lead to a slightly different typing experience, with the Aniya feeling lighter and the Salt Ice feeling slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this comparison, the Aniya is the shorter option, offering a faster response time that may be preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Salt Ice provides a slightly deeper keystroke experience for those who enjoy a more substantive feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial keystroke 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 crisp and sharp auditory experience with a medium volume level. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch stands out for its exceptionally bright and clacky sound characteristics, offering a more vibrant and energetic typing sound. Both switches provide a unique typing experience due to their sound profiles, with the Aniya leaning towards a more balanced and medium tone while the Salt Ice exudes a more lively and pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya linear switch is praised for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery key press with reduced friction and effortless keystrokes. The use of Ly as the stem material in the Aniya switch adds to its exceptional smoothness, providing users with a delightful typing sensation. On the other hand, details about the specific feel of the Salt Ice switch are not provided, but based on the absence of descriptors, one can infer that it may offer a different tactile experience compared to the Aniya.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya provides a balanced and clacky sound profile with a smooth and polished typing feel, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a harmonious typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch delivers a vibrant and energetic sound with a light touch, possibly catering to users looking for a more lively typing sensation. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a harmonious balance in sound profile with a more pronounced clacky sound and a smooth feel, opt for the Aniya. On the other hand, if you desire exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the experience you are seeking from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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