PH Studio Aniya vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch are both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a smooth typing experience. The Aniya, manufactured by BSUN, is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being excessively loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke on the Aniya is a delight. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are ideal for those seeking a more delicate typing experience, thanks to its crisp sound profile and material blend. While the Aniya is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Silky', the Yanyu is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Thocky', and 'Subtle'. 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
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique sound profiles that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Aniya's POM top and bottom housing create a deep and muted sound, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top and bottom housing produce a pleasant and brighter sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience by offering distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
The POM top and bottom housing of the Aniya provide a consistent sound profile that is deep and muted, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top and bottom housing offer a brighter sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a more lively typing experience. While the Aniya focuses on creating a more subdued sound, the Yanyu aims to strike a balance between brightness and pleasantness in its sound profile.
One notable difference between the two housing materials is the impact they have on the typing experience based on whether they are used as the top or bottom housing of a switch. The bottom housing of a switch, which in this case includes the POM or blend material, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it be POM or the blend material, affects the sound when a key is released. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile, keyboard enthusiasts can choose the housing material that best suits their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Yanyu's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Aniya at 50 grams is slightly heavier than the Yanyu's 43 grams. Both switches can be considered light in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Yanyu, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience may opt for the Aniya. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Yanyu's longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. Ultimately, the Aniya offers a quicker press while the Yanyu provides a deeper key press sensation.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 recognized for its moderately high-pitched and clacky sound profile. This results in a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and preferences. The Yanyu switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. When comparing the two, the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound, while the Yanyu offers a more delicate and moderate sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the Aniya linear switch is favored for its remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience. With a medium-light actuation, each keystroke feels buttery and effortless, allowing for a pleasant typing session. In contrast, the Yanyu linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, suitable for extended typing sessions with reduced finger fatigue. Both switches offer a polished and refined feel, enhancing the smoothness of key travel and minimizing resistance during typing. While the Aniya provides a silky sensation, the Yanyu offers a subtler and more feather-light touch, catering to a wider range of typing preferences.
Considering all the available information, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and SP-Star Yanyu linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities to suit different preferences. The Aniya excels in providing a clacky sound profile and creamy typing experience, ideal for users looking for a more pronounced and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu appeals to those seeking a neutral and delicate sound profile with a mild and feather-light typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference, with both options providing a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you value a slightly more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smoother typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, then the Aniya switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile and a lighter actuation force that is comfortable for extended typing sessions, then the Yanyu switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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