PH Studio Aniya vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Aniya switch is praised for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make typing a delightful experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch provides a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile. While the Aniya switch offers a clackier sound and smooth feel, the Silent Brown switch focuses on providing a buttery typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the TTC Silent Brown, one major difference is the material used for the top housing. The Aniya utilizes POM, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Silent Brown features polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Aniya offers a unique sound experience, while the polycarbonate in the Silent Brown is known for its clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Silent Brown allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Aniya and the Silent Brown also differ. The Aniya employs POM for its bottom housing, which contributes to a deep and pleasing sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Brown utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. The choice of bottom housing material in both switches plays a significant role in the overall sound experience when typing or gaming.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the TTC Silent Brown differ, the impact of each material on the sound profile is clearly distinct. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when letting go of a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on the specific properties of their housing materials, creating a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. When it comes to bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 63.5 grams, making the Silent Brown significantly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Aniya might be the better option. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Silent Brown would be the preferred choice. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, so it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Aniya has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Brown. The difference of 0.6 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Aniya with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Silent Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and 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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced sound that is not excessively high-pitched, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, ensuring a quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is known for its creamy and silky typing sensation, attributed to the smoothness of the Ly stem material and medium-light actuation, making keystrokes a delight. Similarly, the Silent Brown switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a gentle and uniform typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump.
Overall, while the Aniya and Silent Brown switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both provide a pleasant typing experience. The Aniya excels in providing a clacky sound and a smooth feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and a silky typing sensation. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a muted sound profile and a buttery feel, perfect for users seeking a quieter typing experience with a comfortable tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a light actuation, then the Aniya switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted sound profile with a comfortable rounded tactile bump, then the Silent Brown switch may be more to your liking. In the end, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so consider what feels best for you when making your decision.
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