PH Studio Aniya vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and HMX Swift both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Aniya, a linear switch from PH Studio, stands out for its balanced sound profile that leans towards a pronounced clacky sound without being overly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the HMX Swift, also a linear switch, boasts a deeper sound profile thanks to its full nylon housings, providing a silky smoothness and a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Aniya offers a more polished and resonant experience, the Swift provides an easy-to-press and feathery sensation. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the HMX Swift both have unique characteristics that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Aniya's POM top and bottom housing create a deep and muted sound, while the Swift's nylon top and bottom housing produce a fuller and rounder sound. The POM material in the Aniya is known for its pleasing sound, while nylon in the Swift is a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound due to its softer nature.
While both the Aniya and Swift utilize different housing materials, they both aim to create a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The POM housings of the Aniya offer a deeper sound that is relatively muted, while the nylon housings of the Swift provide a fuller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in materials, both keyboards are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and deliver a satisfactory sound output that caters to different preferences.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the switches play a crucial role in determining the sound of each keystroke. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable when bottoming out a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Aniya and Swift may have different housing materials, they both aim to provide a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Whether it's the POM or nylon housing, both keyboards offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, with both switches requiring an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required when using either switch. Both switches offer a light typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, they may find that neither switch offers the heavier actuation force they desire. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing experience and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm, which is shorter than the HMX Swift linear switch with a travel distance of 3.9mm. The Aniya offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Swift provides a deeper feeling when pressed, but some users may find it too abrupt. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Aniya offering faster action and the Swift providing a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences, so it is important to consider which travel distance aligns best with individual typing or gaming preferences.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $3.45.
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 slightly clacky sound profile, which is not excessively high-pitched but does provide a pronounced auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, giving it a smoother sound that pairs well with its delicate 42g actuation force. In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is described as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a silky sensation. In comparison, the Swift switch is labeled as easy-to-press and feathery, providing gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue with its light actuation force. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Aniya leaning towards a clacky sound profile and smooth feel, while the Swift provides a deeper sound and an easy-to-press sensation. Despite their differences, both switches deliver quality performance that will satisfy keyboard enthusiasts seeking a linear switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the auditory and tactile experience you desire. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth feel and medium-light actuation force, the Aniya switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness and a delicate 42g actuation force, the Swift switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing on your mechanical keyboard.
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