PH Studio Aniya vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch. The Aniya switch, known for its balanced sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound, offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque is designed to reduce noise with stem railings and cutouts, providing a quiet and responsive typing experience without traditional silicone dampeners. While the Aniya switch leans towards a more audible and clacky typing sound, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued and muted 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
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
Nylon
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both feature top and bottom housings made of different materials, with the Aniya using POM for both and the WS Silent Linear using nylon. POM housings in the Aniya create a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while nylon housings in the WS Silent Linear offer a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the different materials used, both switches provide a distinct and satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials contributing to their overall sound profile.
In terms of sound, the POM housings in the Aniya and the nylon housings in the WS Silent Linear offer different characteristics. The POM housings in the Aniya create a deeper and more muted sound profile that is unique and pleasing to the user. On the other hand, the nylon housings in the WS Silent Linear produce a sound that is deeper, fuller, and rounder, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While these differences in sound profiles may appeal to different preferences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom and top housings play different roles in determining the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. With the Aniya's POM top and bottom housings and the WS Silent Linear's nylon top and bottom housings, users can expect a well-balanced typing experience that takes into consideration the different qualities each housing material brings to the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type on for extended periods. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The actuation force for the WS Silent Linear switch is unknown, but it is clear that it requires more force to bottom out compared to the Aniya switch. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Aniya, while those seeking a heavier and more tactile feel may opt for the WS Silent Linear switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Therefore, the WS Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. The Aniya would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear would offer a bit more depth in feel when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more significant keypress feel. Both switches offer different travel distances, so choosing between them would result in different typing experiences.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is often lauded for its slightly clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a crisp and bright auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is known for its more neutral and muted sound, effectively reducing switch noise and providing a quieter typing experience overall. Depending on personal preference, the Aniya may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound, while the WS Silent Linear may appeal to individuals seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness.
In terms of feel, the Aniya is praised for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. This is achieved through the use of Ly as the stem material, providing a refined and silky feel that enhances the overall typing experience. In comparison, the WS Silent Linear switch is described as providing a more mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. While the Aniya excels in providing a luxurious typing experience, the WS Silent Linear focuses on delivering a comfortable and approachable feel for a wide range of users.
Considering the sound and feel characteristics of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Aniya offers a slightly more pronounced and clacky sound with a creamy and polished feel, the WS Silent Linear provides a quieter and more neutral sound with a mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that users can select the switch that best suits their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider the factors of sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth feel, opt for the Aniya switch. On the other hand, if you desire a quieter typing experience with a moderate and gentle feel, the WS Silent Linear switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel to ensure a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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