PH Studio Aniya vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, particularly between the PH Studio Aniya and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. Both linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different typing styles and preferences. The PH Studio Aniya, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its harmonious sound profile that strikes a delightful balance—producing a pronounced yet not overly loud clacky sound. Its Ly material stem enhances smoothness, while the medium-light actuation provides a satisfying feel with each keypress. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers a profound and satisfying "thock" sound signature, characterized by its all-POM construction that delivers a buttery-smooth keystroke. This switch exudes a more subdued, low-pitched acoustic profile, providing a different auditory and tactile experience. Choosing between the two ultimately hinges on whether you prefer the airy clack of the Aniya or the deep thock of the WS POM+, each switch promising a uniquely enjoyable 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, it's clear that both utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material provides both switches with a distinctive sound profile that is characterized as deep and relatively muted. The use of POM in both the Aniya and WS POM+ suggests that users can expect a similar auditory experience, as the material is known for its smooth tactile characteristics and favorable acoustic properties. Consequently, players can anticipate a satisfying sound signature across both models, which is particularly appealing for those who appreciate a more subdued auditory feedback during typing or gaming.
Despite the shared POM material, the design intricacies of how the housing affects acoustics and feel during usage play a crucial role. Since the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and impact feel, players using the Aniya will experience this aspect in its depth and texture. Meanwhile, the top housing affects the sound upon key release, providing a nuanced listening experience when releasing keys. Because both the Aniya and WS POM+ employ POM across the board, users will experience similar results in key response and auditory feedback, allowing both switches to cater effectively to users seeking a consistent sound profile, regardless of the specific model.
In the broader context of switch design, the uniformity of materials in the Aniya and WS POM+ underscores the importance of housing in realizing sound characteristics. While they may have diverse considerations in switch actuation or tactile feel due to other design factors, their composite POM housings establish a foundation for similar acoustic outcomes. Therefore, whether one chooses the Aniya or the WS POM+, the inherent qualities of POM will ensure that any loss of subtle audio nuances is minimized, delivering a comparable experience that pleases enthusiasts of deep and muted sound profiles.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which impact their overall typing experience. The Aniya features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for users who favor ease of typing and long-duration use, such as during extensive work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option. This incremental increase in force offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, which may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel during their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches are designed for different user preferences, the Aniya is the lighter option, promoting a more effortless typing experience, whereas the WS POM+ provides a bit more resistance for those who enjoy a more substantial typing sensation.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aniya switch offers a more responsive experience due to its shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers who favor quicker key actuation. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile feel, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Consequently, if you like a more immediate response, the Aniya switch would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a deeper key press might opt for the WS POM+. Thus, the Aniya offers a shorter travel distance compared to the longer WS POM+.
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 Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 has a distinctive clacky profile that strikes a balance between being audible and pleasantly engaging. This means it delivers a sharp sound when pressed without being overwhelmingly loud, which generally creates a crisp auditory experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch offers a deep "thock" sound, characterized by a low-pitched and rich tonal quality. While the Aniya produces a high-pitched sound that can be perceived as more pronounced and bright, the WS POM+ exudes a subdued and bass-heavy resonance. Both options provide unique auditory experiences, so the ultimate choice would depend on whether one prefers a clackier sound or a deeper thock.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya is recognized for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, which can be described as creamy and silky. The use of Ly as the stem material contributes to this luxurious sensation, making typing effortless and enjoyable. Conversely, the WS POM+ switch is similarly known for its smoothness, featuring a buttery feel alongside the silky tactile experience. Both switches excel in providing a seamless typing experience, meaning that those who appreciate a consistently fluid keystroke will find satisfaction in either option.
In summary, the PH Studio Aniya and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and tactile sensations. The Aniya leans towards a more clacky and bright profile, while the WS POM+ offers a deeper, thocky experience. In terms of feel, both switches are exceptionally smooth, ensuring a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal auditory preferences while remaining assured of a high-quality tactile sensation with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch should largely depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a lighter key press with a more pronounced clacky sound and a harmonious auditory experience, the Aniya would serve you well. It's ideal for those who appreciate a crisp sound profile without it being overpoweringly loud, making it perfect for both typing and gaming scenarios. On the other hand, if you're leaning towards a deeper, richer typing experience with a satisfying "thock" sound, the WS POM+ is a strong contender. The medium-light force of 55 grams provides a balanced feel that caters well to those who prefer a slightly more substantial keystroke. Additionally, both switches offer a silky typing experience, but the buttery smoothness of the WS POM+ may appeal more to users who prioritize uniformity and fluidity in their typing. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics, so consider what aspects—be it sound, feel, or force—you value most to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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