PH Studio Aniya vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it is important to consider the key differences between the two. The Aniya switch, manufactured by BSUN, offers a harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. The use of ly as the stem material provides a remarkably smooth feel with a medium-light actuation, making each keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The feel of the Jwick switch is silky smooth but not overly polished. While the Aniya switch is categorized as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is categorized as subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Both switches have their unique qualities and appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Aniya and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Aniya features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate in the Jwick switch allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Aniya lacks. However, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different sound characteristics due to their top housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aniya uses POM, which also contributes to its deep and pleasing sound profile, while the Jwick switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing. The nylon housing in the Semi-Silent Linear results in a fuller and deeper sound, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone compared to POM. This contrast in bottom housing materials further distinguishes the sound profiles of the two switches, with the Jwick switch offering a rounder sound due to the softer nylon material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the PH Studio Aniya and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Aniya features POM housings for both the top and bottom, resulting in a deep and muted sound, the Jwick switch utilizes polycarbonate and nylon for its top and bottom housings respectively, creating a sharper and crisper sound with a fuller and deeper tone. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer premium typing experiences, with the top and bottom housings each contributing unique qualities to the sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident 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 Semi-Silent Linear has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Choosing the Aniya would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. However, the Semi-Silent Linear would be a better option for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preferences, with the Aniya offering a lighter touch and the Semi-Silent Linear providing a slightly heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their keyboard.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. The Aniya's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Semi-Silent Linear's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference for choosing between the two.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 profile, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound, with a dampened and subtle sound signature. Depending on personal preference, the Aniya switch may be more preferable for those who enjoy a more pronounced and audible typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch may appeal to individuals looking for a quieter option without sacrificing the tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch boasts a creamy and silky smooth typing experience, offering a buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild and snappy feel, catering to individuals who prefer a more gentle and responsive typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth and refined finish, with reduced friction and smooth key travel, making each keystroke comfortable and enjoyable.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch each have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aniya switch leans towards a more clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a creamy and silky smooth feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound with a mild and snappy typing experience. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific requirements when choosing between these two switches, but rest assured that both options provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, you should consider the sound and feel preferences you have for your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a switch that produces a more pronounced clacky sound with a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, then the Aniya switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, with a silky smooth feel, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences.