PH Studio Aniya vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch stand out as intriguing options. The Aniya, manufactured by BSUN, offers a harmonious balance in sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound that is not overwhelmingly loud, providing a pleasant auditory experience. The use of Ly as the stem material ensures a remarkably smooth feel and a medium-light actuation, making typing a delight. On the other hand, the Yoel, also manufactured by BSUN, delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is satisfying and pronounced. Both switches share characteristics such as being clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique sound profiles, but with distinct characteristics. The Aniya's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and relatively more muted sound, which can be pleasing to those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This difference in sound can appeal to users who prefer a more distinct and resonant typing sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Aniya and the Yoel also differ. The Aniya's POM top housing may not have the translucency that polycarbonate offers, but it provides a unique look and feel that some users may prefer. On the contrary, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing is perfect for those who want to showcase RGB lighting through their switches. The transparency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects that can enhance the overall look of a keyboard.
Overall, while the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the PH Studio Yoel have their own distinct qualities, they both play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. Whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound profile with POM or a crisper, higher-pitched sound profile with polycarbonate, both options offer a unique typing experience. In the end, the choice between the two housing materials will ultimately come down to personal preference and desired aesthetics.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams to bottom out, while the Yoel needs 60 grams, making the Yoel slightly heavier in this aspect as well. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aniya switch, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Yoel switch may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback while typing, providing a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Aniya and PH Studio Yoel linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be the same. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and experience with both switches. The travel distance of 3.2 mm for both switches ensures consistent performance and feedback, making them reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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, both the PH Studio Aniya and Yoel linear switches exhibit a clacky profile, providing a sharp and satisfying auditory experience when pressed. However, the Aniya leans more towards a pronounced clack with a medium-light actuation, while the Yoel delivers a bright clacky sound with a resonant quality when key bottom-out occurs. This difference in sound profile between the two switches can offer users a choice based on their preference for a slightly different typing sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Aniya and Yoel are described as offering a creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation when pressing the keys. The use of specific materials or factory lubing contributes to this silky feel, allowing for reduced friction and smooth key travel. With both switches falling under the creamy and polished descriptors, users can expect a consistent level of typing comfort and smoothness when using either the Aniya or Yoel linear switches.
In conclusion, while the Aniya and Yoel linear switches from PH Studio share similarities in their creamy and polished feel, they differentiate themselves in sound profiles with the Aniya leaning towards a pronounced clackiness and the Yoel offering a bright clack with a resonant quality. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal sound preference, but users can expect a consistently smooth and enjoyable typing experience from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the characteristics that matter most to you. If you prioritize a more balanced sound profile with a medium-light actuation and a smooth feel, the Aniya switch with its clacky sound and creamy typing experience may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky sound profile with a chewy typing experience, the Yoel switch with its pronounced resonance and smooth key travel may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what feels best for your typing experience.