PH Studio Aniya vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Aniya switch is praised for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. The smooth feel and medium-light actuation of the Aniya switches make typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Duck switches provide a more subtle tactile typing experience with gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. While the Aniya switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound and smooth feel, the Duck switch is perfect for individuals seeking a quieter and gentler typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the SP-Star Duck, we can see that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aniya features a POM top and bottom housing, imparting a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Aniya's POM housings create a unique sound, the Duck's polycarbonate housings offer a more clear and resonant audio experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide a distinct sound experience based on their housing materials.
The aesthetic aspect of the housing materials also differs between the Aniya and the Duck. The Aniya's POM housings do not offer the translucency of polycarbonate, which makes it less suitable for RGB lighting effects. On the contrary, the Duck's polycarbonate housings, due to their transparency, are ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. This showcases how the choice of housing material can impact not only the sound but also the overall look and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials for switches comes down to personal preference. While the Aniya's POM housings create a unique and pleasing sound that may appeal to some users, others may prefer the sharper and crisper sound profile of the Duck's polycarbonate housings. Both switches offer distinct audio experiences based on their housing materials, providing users with options to tailor their keyboard sound to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Aniya is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Duck has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This makes the Duck switch slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aniya switch would be more suitable, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Duck switch would appeal to users who prefer a more significant push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. If you're looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Aniya would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more significant depth to the key press, then the Duck would be more suitable. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback and actuation force, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. However, if you're comfortable with either length of travel distance, then you can expect similar results from both switches in terms of overall typing 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 is known for its slightly clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as having a clean and crispy sound, offering a more subtle typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Aniya being more on the pronounced side and the Duck being more gentle. Depending on your preference for sound, you can achieve enjoyable results with either switch.
Moving on to the feel, the Aniya linear switch is praised for its remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to the Ly stem material used in its construction. With medium-light actuation, each keystroke feels effortless and silky, enhancing the overall typing sensation. Conversely, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild and buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to deliver a pleasant tactile feedback, with the Aniya offering a slightly more pronounced feel compared to the Duck. Whether you prefer a creamier or buttery typing experience, both switches can provide a satisfying feel during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced and clacky sound profile with a creamy feel, the Duck provides a cleaner and more subtle sound with a mild and buttery feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced or gentle typing experience, both switches can deliver a pleasant mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya and Duck switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the factors of sound and feel. If you prefer a slightly louder and more clacky sound profile with a smooth and medium-light actuation, the Aniya linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and clean sound profile with a gentle tactile typing experience, the Duck tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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