PH Studio Aniya vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it's evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aniya is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound while maintaining a pleasant auditory experience. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out for its premium quality at an accessible price point, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. 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
40g
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
3.80 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
POM
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 spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and Dareu Sky POM switches are quite similar in terms of their POM top housing. Both switches utilize POM as the top housing material, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This results in a smoother and more subtle typing experience for users of either switch. The similarities in the top housing material mean that users can expect consistent sound characteristics when using either the Aniya or Sky POM switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Aniya and Sky POM switches differ. The Aniya features a POM bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile by enhancing the deep and muted characteristics of the switch. On the other hand, the Sky POM utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for the Sky POM switch. This difference in bottom housing materials may lead to a somewhat varied typing experience for users of the two switches.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. In the case of the Aniya and Sky POM switches, the qualities of the bottom housing material, whether it be POM or nylon, will be felt by users when typing. Conversely, the top housing material will have more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction in the housing materials of the two switches highlights how the choice of materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile for users.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch both offer a relatively light actuation force, with the Aniya requiring 42 grams and the Sky POM needing 40 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, the Aniya is slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out, requiring 50 grams compared to the Sky POM's force, which is unknown. This means that while both switches offer a light typing experience, the Aniya provides a bit more resistance when fully pressing down. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky POM, while those who enjoy a bit more feedback may opt for the Aniya. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch's 3.8 mm travel distance. The Aniya switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who need rapid input recognition. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs for keyboard users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 has a more pronounced clacky sound profile compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, which is described as having a low-pitched sound. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the sharper and snappier sound of the Aniya, while others may gravitate towards the mellower tone of the Sky POM. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is commended for its remarkably smooth feel attributed to the Ly stem material, offering a medium-light actuation force. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is lauded for its exceptional smoothness and a gentle actuation force, giving users a buttery typing experience. Both switches are described as providing a silky sensation while typing, with the Aniya also mentioned for its polished finish contributing to a sleek typing experience.
Overall, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, they both excel in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on individual preference for sound and feel, users can expect premium quality from both switches, with the Aniya leaning towards a more clacky sound and the Sky POM offering a low-pitched alternative. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, giving newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world a range of options to suit their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, the Aniya may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch crafted entirely from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM switch might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to your personal typing experience preferences. Make your selection based on what sound and feel you find most appealing for the ultimate typing experience.
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