PH Studio Aniya vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a top-notch typing experience. The Aniya switch, known for its balanced sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound, offers a smooth and medium-light actuation that makes typing a delight. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action for a rich and satisfying typing experience. While the Aniya switch leans towards being high-pitched and creamy, the Sky V4 switch is described as low-pitched and bouncy. Each switch has its unique qualities that appeal to 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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 PH Studio Aniya and Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Aniya featuring POM top and bottom housings, and the Sky V4 utilizing POK top and nylon bottom housings. While both switches aim to provide a pleasing sound profile, the POM material in the Aniya creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the POK material in the Sky V4, which contributes to a smooth, clacky, and durable switch experience. The difference in sound profiles between the two housing materials may appeal to different preferences among users, with the Aniya offering a more subdued sound and the Sky V4 providing a louder and more tactile typing experience.
In terms of durability, the Dareu Sky V4's POK material boasts exceptional strength and wear resistance, surpassing POM by a significant margin. The nylon bottom housing in the Sky V4 also adds to its durability, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Aniya's POM bottom housing complements the top housing to create a sound profile that is deep and unique, albeit more muted compared to the Sky V4. The difference in material composition between the two switches may influence users' preferences based on their priorities, whether it be sound quality, durability, or overall typing experience.
While the housing materials in the PH Studio Aniya and Dareu Sky V4 differ in terms of sound profile and durability, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings in each switch allows for a unique blend of qualities that impact the sound and feel when typing on the switches. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of the POM material in the Aniya or the smooth, clacky sound of the POK material in the Sky V4, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and Sky V4 housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch reveals some differences. The Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sky V4 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Aniya would be better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Sky V4, with its slightly heavier forces, could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press feel for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking quick and responsive keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 offers a more pronounced and clacky sound profile, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a deep and rich thocky sound. The Aniya switch leans towards a higher-pitched and slightly clacky sound, creating a more percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch offers a neutral sound with a low-pitched thocky tone, providing a satisfying and immersive auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, catering to different preferences in keyboard sound profiles. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can achieve similar results in sound quality with either switch.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aniya linear switch is known for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. This is due to the use of Ly as the stem material, providing a remarkably smooth feel complemented by a medium-light actuation. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, delivering a spring-like and lively feedback when pressed. While the Aniya switch focuses on a silky and polished typing experience, the Sky V4 switch emphasizes a bouncy and elastic feel, catering to users who prefer a more responsive and lively keystroke sensation.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Aniya switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy, polished typing feel, while the Sky V4 switch offers a thocky sound and a bouncy, responsive typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable time spent at the keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth feel, the Aniya would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature with a smooth linear action and a medium-light bottom out force, the Sky V4 may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Either way, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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