PH Studio Aniya vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya and TKC Tangerine are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer a smooth typing experience. The Aniya is known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound that is not overwhelmingly loud. The use of Ly as the stem material provides a remarkably smooth feel, making each keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel, attributed to the UHWMPE housings that are rare in the world of bespoke switches. Both switches share a high-pitched clack when typing, but the Aniya also offers a creamy and resonant sound profile. When choosing between these switches, consider the Aniya for its clacky and polished feel, and the Tangerine for its buttery and frictionless 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the TKC Tangerine switches offer contrasting sound profiles. The POM housing of the Aniya provides a deeper and more muted sound, whereas the UHWMPE housing of the Tangerine offers a bright and resonant clack. This results in a noticeable difference in typing experience, with the Aniya switches providing a more subdued sound while the Tangerine switches offer a livelier and more impactful typing sound. Despite this difference, both switches are designed to enhance the overall auditory experience of typing.
While the top housing materials of the Aniya and Tangerine switches vary, their bottom housing materials also contribute to their unique sound profiles. The POM bottom housing of the Aniya continues to provide a deep and muted sound, complementing the top housing's characteristics. In contrast, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine adds to the bright sound signature of the switch, creating a cohesive and balanced typing experience. This highlights how the combination of top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In summary, the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the TKC Tangerine switches demonstrate how different materials can significantly impact the sound produced while typing. The POM housing of the Aniya creates a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side, while the UHWMPE housing of the Tangerine offers a brighter and more resonant typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize enhancing the auditory feedback of typing, providing users with a diverse range of sound options to suit their preferences. Ultimately, understanding the role of housing materials in switch design is key to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch. The Aniya requires 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unknown but has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Aniya, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Tangerine offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Tangerine switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Aniya switch. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Tangerine switch falls within the traditional range, while the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Aniya switch is on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Aniya switch for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper keypress may opt for the Tangerine switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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 clacky sound profile with a medium pitch, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience without being overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a higher-pitched clack when typing, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying auditory feedback, albeit with slight differences in pitch and tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya linear switch boasts a remarkably smooth sensation attributed to the Ly stem material, offering a creamy and polished typing experience that feels silky and refined. Conversely, the Tangerine linear switch is characterized by a frictionless and buttery feel, providing an effortless and uniform typing sensation that minimizes resistance and enhances key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth and enjoyable tactile feedback, showcasing varying degrees of smoothness and fluidity in keystroke execution.
Overall, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch possess unique characteristics in sound and feel, they both aim to enhance the typing experience through smoothness and tactile satisfaction. Depending on personal preferences for sound pitch and textural feedback, users can expect similar levels of typing pleasure from either switch with slight variations in sound profile and tactile sensation. Ultimately, both switches cater to users seeking a premium typing experience with distinct qualities to suit individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should factor in your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a medium-light actuation and smooth feel, the Aniya switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and UHWMPE housings for reduced friction, the Tangerine switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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