PH Studio Aniya vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer unique experiences for users. The Aniya, a linear switch, is praised for its harmonious sound profile that leans towards a clacky feel without being overwhelming. With a smooth and medium-light actuation, typing on the Aniya is a delight for those who appreciate a creamy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, provides a medium-high level of tactility with its two-staged spring design, resulting in a sharp and snappy typing sensation. The deep thocks produced by the Shadow switches add an accented and bouncy element to the typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them desirable choices for different 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring feature different housing materials for both the top and bottom components. The Aniya utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring incorporates polycarbonate for both housing components, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in material choice contributes to a noticeable difference in sound experience between the two keyboards.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Aniya and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring also diverge. The translucent nature of polycarbonate used in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it ideal for users looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. In comparison, the opaque nature of POM in the Aniya's housing may not provide the same visual appeal for those seeking a more vibrant and visually striking keyboard setup. The choice between these materials ultimately depends on the user's preference for both sound and visual aesthetics.
While the Aniya and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring showcase contrasting housing materials, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housings in each keyboard highlights the importance of material selection in achieving the desired sound and feel when typing. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both keyboards offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and visual aesthetics.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a higher actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams to bottom out, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch needs 63 grams. The Aniya is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the better choice. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose according to their preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya switch is more suited for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a deeper key press, which some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance. Both options will provide a different typing experience, with the Aniya offering a quicker response and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing a more substantial key press.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 sound profile. This results in a sharp and snappy noise when typing, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is also described as clacky and high-pitched, ensuring a similar level of sharpness and crispness in sound production. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience, with the Aniya leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing deep, resonating thocks.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is renowned for its creamy and polished typing experience. This translates to a smooth and buttery sensation when pressing the keys, with minimal friction and effortless keystrokes. On the contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as sharp and accented, offering a high feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump. This results in a more pronounced tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. While the Aniya focuses on a silky and smooth feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring emphasizes a snappy and bouncy feedback, catering to different preferences in typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy, polished typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a sharp, high-pitched sound and a sharp, bouncy tactile feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing sensation, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the characteristics that suit your preferences. If you enjoy a smoother and lighter typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Aniya linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and bouncy feel with a higher bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and what feels most comfortable to you.
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