PH Studio Aniya vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Aniya, a linear switch, boasts a balanced sound profile with a noticeable clacky tone that isn't overpoweringly loud. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make typing a delight, perfect for those who enjoy a creamy and resonant keystroke. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch from Aflion, offers a medium weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience. With a neutral sound signature, these switches showcase Aflion's commitment to innovation. While both switches have their unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience of a keyboard switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding another dimension to the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Aniya's POM bottom housing maintains the deep and muted sound profile of the switch, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing delivers a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to POM, resulting in a more subdued sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. This difference showcases how the material composition of the housing can influence the acoustics and tactile feedback of a keyboard switch.
In considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches, it becomes evident that each component plays a crucial role in shaping the user experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced sound profile, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By understanding these differences in housing materials, keyboard enthusiasts can tailor their choice of switches to match their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Overall, while the Aniya and Thunder Shadow may offer contrasting sound profiles, both switches provide unique and customizable options for users seeking a specialized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that they offer significantly different experiences. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and easy keystroke experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow switch has an actuation force that is unknown and a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch and less strain on their fingers, the Aniya switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced push feel and a greater sense of feedback would lean towards the Thunder Shadow switch. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Aniya being lighter and the Thunder Shadow being heavier in terms of force required for typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, we see that the Aniya has a travel distance of 3.2 mm while the Thunder Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Aniya has a shorter travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a noticeable impact on the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Aniya a popular choice in that regard. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial key press might opt for the Thunder Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing/gaming style.
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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 best characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature, catering to a wider range of preferences with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments. Both switches ensure a pleasant auditory experience, with the Aniya leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound and the Thunder Shadow striking a harmonious balance overall. Overall, while the Aniya may offer a more distinct sound profile, the Thunder Shadow provides a versatile and balanced option for those seeking a more neutral auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch boasts a remarkably smooth sensation, described as creamy and polished, offering a buttery and refined typing experience. The use of Ly as the stem material enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, making typing on the Aniya an absolute delight. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel, catering to users who prefer a more reactive typing experience. While the Aniya focuses on delivering a silky and effortless typing feel, the Thunder Shadow offers a firmer actuation force for a more engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. While the Aniya excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience with a more pronounced sound profile, the Thunder Shadow offers a more neutral sound signature and an invigorating feel for a more reactive typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for users looking to enhance their typing experience, ensuring that whether you choose the Aniya or the Thunder Shadow, you will achieve a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, medium-light actuation, the Aniya may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature with a tactile bump and a medium-weight feel, the Thunder Shadow could be the switch that suits your typing style better. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider which factors are most important to you in your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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