PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aniya switch, known for its medium-light actuation and smooth feel thanks to the Ly stem material, produces a pronounced clacky sound profile that is not excessively loud. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its creamy and smooth typing experience, achieved through the use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. This switch also delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. Both switches feature POM top housings, with the Aniya's POM top housing creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. However, the POM material of the Aniya is known for its pleasing sound profile, while the KTT blend of the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a different auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Aniya and Vanilla Ice Cream switches differ in their materials. The Aniya features a POM bottom housing that complements the sound profile of the top housing with its deep and muted characteristics. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes POK bottom housing, known for its exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material contributes to the overall smooth, clacky, and durable nature of the Vanilla Ice Cream switches, enhancing the typing experience with its sturdy construction and wear resistance.
Overall, the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and tactile feedback. While both switches share a common POM top housing, the bottom housings offer different qualities that influence the overall typing experience. The POM bottom housing of the Aniya complements its pleasing sound profile, while the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream contributes to its smooth and durable nature. By understanding how the top and bottom housings interact with each other, users can choose the switch that best fits their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences. The Aniya has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream only needs 48 grams. Both switches can be considered relatively light in terms of force required for typing. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Aniya, while those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing experience may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with minimal force required for actuation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya switch. The difference may not be significant, but it could potentially affect the typing experience for some users. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance, the Aniya switch may provide a faster response time, which is ideal for gaming. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing 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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch both offer a high-pitched and clacky auditory experience. The Aniya has a slightly more pronounced clackiness, while the Vanilla Ice Cream is described with a marbly and resonant sound profile. Both switches provide a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, amplifying the typing experience with their distinct acoustics.
Moving on to feel, the Aniya linear switch boasts a creamy and polished typing sensation, thanks to the use of the Ly material in the stem. Typists can expect a smooth and buttery keystroke experience, making each press feel like gliding effortlessly across the keys. Similarly, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a fluid and uniform typing sensation that enhances the overall smoothness of the keystrokes. With both switches prioritizing a luxurious and refined feel, users can expect a premium typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provide similar high-pitched and clacky sound profiles, they differentiate themselves in the feel department. The Aniya emphasizes a creamy and polished typing experience, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a buttery and seamless sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as they both deliver top-tier performance in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, in choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a more pronounced clacky sound profile with medium-light actuation and a smooth feel, the Aniya might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-pitched and clacky sound signature with a smooth and creamy feel reminiscent of its namesake dessert, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be the one for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
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