PH Studio Aniya vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch both offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Aniya is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, it provides a delightful typing experience marked by its distinctive sound qualities. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are lauded for their refined sound profile, combining the deep, resonant "thock" of bottoming out with the whisper-quiet topping out for a luxurious typing experience. While the Aniya is ideal for those who enjoy a more clacky and creamy feel, the U4Tx is perfect for those seeking a sharp tactile bump and muted sound. 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Gazzew U4Tx both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Aniya utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound that is incredibly pleasing to the ear. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While they may use different materials, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of sound quality.
However, where the two switches differ is in the specific qualities each housing material brings to the overall switch experience. The POM top and bottom housings of the Aniya create a more muted sound profile that is deeper in tone, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the Gazzew blend top and bottom housing of the U4Tx also deliver a rich and deep sound profile, but with a unique softness that influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer users a premium sound experience that is sought after in the mechanical keyboard community.
Ultimately, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the Gazzew U4Tx will come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. The POM housing of the Aniya produces a more muted and deep sound, while the Gazzew blend housing of the U4Tx offers a softer yet equally rich sound experience. Whether you prefer the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound, or the influence of the top housing on key release sound, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that will satisfy even the most discerning mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Regarding actuation force, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams of force while the U4Tx needs a heavier 62.5 grams. This means that the Aniya provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a more substantial and tactile feel due to its higher bottom out force. Both switches have their benefits, with the Aniya being ideal for extended typing sessions and the U4Tx providing a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4Tx has a longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. The shorter travel distance of the Aniya may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the U4Tx may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing feel and response, so you can expect unique results with each.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 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 slightly higher-pitched and clackier sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch presents a deeper and richer sound with a bassy tone, offering a more muted and softer typing sound overall. The Aniya may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced clack in their keystrokes, while the U4Tx is ideal for individuals seeking a quieter and more refined typing experience. Both switches provide unique acoustical qualities that cater to different preferences, showcasing the diverse range of options available in the mechanical keyboard market.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is characterized by a remarkably smooth and medium-light actuation, giving it a creamy and polished typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, providing a distinct and crisp tactile feel with each keypress. The Aniya switch may appeal to those who prefer a smoother and buttery typing sensation, while the U4Tx is perfect for those seeking a more pronounced tactile response in their keystrokes. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, highlighting the variety of options available in mechanical keyboard switches.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya excels in delivering a clackier and medium-light actuation sound profile, coupled with a creamy and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx stands out with its bassy and muted sound profile, paired with a sharp tactile bump for a more intense typing experience. Whether seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback or a distinct tactile response, both switches offer exceptional performance in their respective areas, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch that provides a harmonious balance of sound profile with a more pronounced clacky sound and a smooth, medium-light actuation, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet top out, coupled with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, then the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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