PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch stand out for their unique features. The Aniya switch boasts a harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound that is not overwhelmingly loud, providing a delightful auditory experience. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke with the Aniya switch is a satisfying one. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is perfect for those seeking a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Offering a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, the Silent T1 delivers a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both offer unique sound profiles, but they do so in slightly different ways. The POM top housing of the Aniya produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) creates a sharper and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic dimension to the sound experience. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Aniya contributes to a deeper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
While the POM and polycarbonate top housings offer contrasting sound profiles, the nylon and POM bottom housings share similarities in creating deeper and fuller sound experiences. The combination of different housing materials in each switch allows for a balance of sound characteristics between the top and bottom, impacting both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing gives a more resonant sound upon release, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon keypress.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) each bring unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switches. Whether it is the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both materials offer users a distinct typing experience. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings provide a depth and fullness to the sound that enhances the overall typing feel. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience desired.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Aniya is also lighter at 50 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Aniya switch would provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would offer a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will offer a deeper feeling when pressed due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the travel distance desired for typing or gaming experience.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch provides a more pronounced clacky sound profile that is not excessively high-pitched, offering a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is designed for noise-sensitive environments, producing a muted sound that minimizes noise typical of mechanical keyboards. When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is known for its remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material, offering a silky sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a stepped tactile feel, offering a medium bump and a padded bottom-out experience that is accented but not overwhelming.
Considering the information provided, it is clear that the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya switch leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound and a creamy typing feel, while the Silent T1 switch provides a muted sound profile and a stepped tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, with both options offering unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound and a smooth, creamy typing experience, the Aniya may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted sound profile and a tactile switch with a medium bump and polished feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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