PH Studio Aniya vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing options that cater to differing preferences in tactile feedback and auditory experience. The PH Studio Aniya, manufactured by BSUN, is celebrated for striking a harmonious balance in sound profile, offering a pronounced yet pleasant clacky tone without being overwhelmingly loud. With its Ly stem material, the Aniya boasts a remarkably smooth feel and a medium-light actuation, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate both auditory and tactile satisfaction in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is designed for gamers and typists seeking speed and responsiveness, featuring a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile that facilitates rapid key presses without distraction. While both switches fall into the linear category, appealing to different user bases, the Aniya's unique sound and smoothness cater more to a tactile experience, whereas the Yellow Silver prioritizes performance and quick actuation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Yellow Silver, a key difference lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Aniya features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is noted for producing a unique sound profile characterized by deeper, more muted tones. In contrast, the Yellow Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for delivering a sharper and crisper sound. This divergence in materials leads to distinctly different auditory experiences; POM’s inherently softer and less resonant properties foster a subdued sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate allows for greater sound clarity and brightness. Therefore, when considering the effects of each housing on performance, users can expect a more pronounced and lively sound from the Yellow Silver compared to the muted depths of the Aniya.
Examining the bottom housing, the Aniya again uses POM, which complements its top housing by reinforcing the switch’s deeper, rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver is constructed with a nylon bottom housing. Nylon contributes a classic warmth and fullness to the switch’s sound, absorbing more sound than harder materials like POM or polycarbonate. This reinforces the contrast between the two switches; the Aniya’s POM housing results in a cohesive muted aesthetic across both top and bottom, while the Yellow Silver’s nylon bottom enhances the sharper tones produced by its polycarbonate top. This combination of materials creates a unique sound signature for each switch, making them appealing to different preferences in typing feel and auditory feedback.
Ultimately, the housing materials influence the performance and character of each switch but also highlight the interplay between top and bottom housings. While the Aniya’s and Yellow Silver’s differing materials lead to distinct auditory profiles, the careful design and compatibility of each housing type also reveal a nuanced approach to sound production. For example, even if one were to use the Aniya's softer POM materials exclusively, it wouldn’t yield a sound profile as bright as that of the Yellow Silver, which utilizes the sharper polycarbonate. Conversely, combining the sturdiness of the Yellow Silver's bottom housing with POM or nylon for the top could lead to a balanced outcome for those seeking a sound profile that incorporates the best of both worlds. Thus, while the switches are constructed from differing materials, similar end results can be achieved through thoughtful material selection and pairing.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a gentler typing experience that can facilitate longer use for work or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, falling into the medium-light category. This difference means that while both switches offer a relatively enjoyable typing experience, the Aniya is ultimately the lighter option, making it more appealing for prolonged typing sessions. Users looking for a stronger push feel may prefer the slightly heavier force of the Yellow Silver for greater resistance and feedback. Overall, if someone finds the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches to be acceptable, they can expect a satisfying typing experience, though the Aniya will feel lighter and more effortless compared to the Yellow Silver.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Aniya switch the shorter option, providing a quicker and more responsive feel, which is often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Yellow Silver with its longer 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional keystroke, catering to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: those who value rapid actuation may lean towards the Aniya, while those who enjoy a fuller keystroke sensation will likely prefer the Yellow Silver.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 more pronounced clacky sound profile that is crisp and bright, providing an auditory experience that is enjoyable yet not overwhelmingly loud. Users can expect the Aniya switch to produce a sharp, snappy sound upon keystrokes, which contributes to an immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver features a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. This characteristic allows the Yellow Silver to blend seamlessly into different settings, ensuring that the sound isn’t distracting to those nearby.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is exemplary with its creamy, polished, and silky characteristics. This combination results in a remarkably smooth and delightful typing experience, likened to gliding one’s fingers across the keys effortlessly. The use of Ly as the stem material further enhances the sensation, contributing to a medium-light actuation that feels both responsive and satisfying. The Yellow Silver, while providing a light actuation force, lacks specific descriptors about its tactile qualities, leaving its feel somewhat ambiguous in comparison. However, its focus on lightness and responsiveness indicates it should deliver a swift and efficient typing experience favored by gamers and fast typists.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a distinct auditory and tactile profile characterized by its clackiness and smooth feel, the Outemu Yellow Silver provides a neutral sound and light actuation force that is versatile for a range of users. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, but they cater to different preferences; those seeking an engaging sound and smooth operation may gravitate towards the Aniya, while those prioritizing responsiveness and a more subdued sound might prefer the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a distinctive auditory experience and appreciate a smooth, creamy feel in your typing, the Aniya is well-suited for you, as it offers a unique clacky sound that's not overly harsh, making it ideal for both typing and casual gaming. Its lighter actuation force ensures that you can enjoy quick keystrokes without fatigue during extended sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more versatile switch that balances performance and sound neutrality, the Yellow Silver would be the preferable option. With its medium-light bottom-out force and neutral sound profile, it caters well to gamers and typists who prioritize responsiveness and speed without the distraction of a pronounced clicking sound. Ultimately, both switches serve their purposes effectively; your final decision should hinge on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feel or swift responsiveness and versatility in your keyboard experience.
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