PH Studio Aniya vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch, known for its harmonious sound profile, offers a clacky yet not overwhelmingly loud typing experience. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound profile, the T1 offers a more neutral and polished sound. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a more tactile typing experience or a smoother linear feel. 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
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 T1 switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The POM top and bottom housing of the Aniya produce a deeper and muted sound, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, offering a crisp typing sensation. The nylon bottom housing of the T1, in contrast to the POM bottom housing of the Aniya, produces a fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder typing experience.
While the POM top housing of the Aniya and the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 offer different sound profiles, they both contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience. The transparency of the polycarbonate top housing in the T1 allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, whereas the opaque POM top housing of the Aniya focuses more on sound aesthetics. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the T1 and the POM bottom housing of the Aniya provide different levels of sound absorption and impact on the overall typing feel. Despite their differences, both housing materials aim to enhance the user's typing experience in unique ways.
In conclusion, the choice between the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Durock T1 ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound profile and tactile feedback. The POM and polycarbonate housings offer distinct sound profiles, with the POM creating a deeper and muted sound while the polycarbonate delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings provide different levels of sound absorption and impact on the typing experience. Whether a user prefers a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, higher-pitched sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to varying preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial and pronounced typing feel. While the actuation force of the T1 is unknown, it can be assumed to be higher than 42 grams, making it overall a heavier switch compared to the Aniya. The Aniya would be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, while the T1 would be more suitable for those seeking a stronger push feel for a more intense typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is an important factor to consider based on individual preferences for typing or gaming comfort.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya switch is ideal for those who prefer a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it popular among gamers. On the other hand, the T1 switch offers a deeper keystroke experience with its longer travel distance, which some may find more satisfying. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which one to choose.
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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched profile, creating a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile adds a distinct tactile feedback to each keystroke without being too loud, providing an enjoyable auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound of rain falling on the window is a fitting comparison for the T1, highlighting its soothing and calming auditory qualities.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is celebrated for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. The stem material of Ly contributes to the overall smoothness and medium-light actuation of the switch, creating a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a stepped and accented feel, offering a two-stage tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming nor too subtle. The polished finish of the T1 adds to its sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel for comfortable typing sessions.
Overall, if you prefer a sharper and clackier sound profile with a creamy and smooth typing experience, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more soothing and mellow sound with a stepped and accented tactile feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a perfect fit. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying and personalized typing experience for newcomers seeking their ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound with a smooth keystroke, the Aniya may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bump with a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the T1 could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as sound profile, actuation force, and tactile feel to ensure you select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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