PH Studio Aniya vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is renowned for its harmonious balance in sound profile, with a pronounced clacky sound that is not excessively loud, providing a pleasant auditory experience. The smooth feel of the Ly stem material and medium-light actuation make every keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch lacks a specific standout feature but offers a different typing experience. While the Aniya is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Milk Tea's characteristics remain undefined. If you are considering between these two switches, reflect on whether you prefer the unique sound profile of the Aniya or the tactile feedback offered by the Milk Tea. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Ly
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Outemu Milk Tea switches offer contrasting sound profiles. The Aniya uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound when typing. In contrast, the Milk Tea utilizes a Ly top housing, which produces a bright and resonant clack when typing. Additionally, the Milk Tea features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. These differences in material composition lead to distinct typing experiences and sound profiles for each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Aniya and the Milk Tea, they both aim to provide a unique and pleasing sound experience. The POM top and bottom housing of the Aniya create a consistent deep and muted sound that some users may find more satisfying, while the Milk Tea's combination of Ly and nylon housings offer a brighter and fuller sound profile that appeals to a different set of preferences. Both switches prioritize sound quality and aim to offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit through different means and materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes evident that each material plays a crucial role in shaping the user experience. The bottom housing, as seen in the case of the Milk Tea's nylon material, significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material, such as the Ly material used in the Milk Tea, plays a key role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By combining different housing materials for the top and bottom parts of a switch, manufacturers can achieve a balanced and unique sound profile that caters to a variety of user preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the Aniya is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Milk Tea has an actuation force of 45 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The difference in actuation force between the two switches is minimal, with the Aniya requiring slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. When it comes to bottoming out, the Aniya is also lighter than the Milk Tea. The actuation force plays a significant role in the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for extended typing sessions and gaming, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Aniya will provide a quicker response time when pressed compared to the Milk Tea. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Aniya for its shorter travel distance as it can lead to faster gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced key press and a deeper feel may lean towards the Milk Tea despite its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the one that best suits individual typing or gaming style.
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 Milk Tea comes in at $3.10 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
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience without being overwhelmingly loud. This is complemented by a smooth feel attributed to the stem material Ly, resulting in a medium-light actuation that enhances the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch are unknown. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a pronounced clacky sound and a smooth, buttery feel, the Aniya linear switch would be a great choice. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel depending on your setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth and medium-light actuation, the Aniya switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a creamy and polished feel, you may lean towards the Milk Tea switch. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
