PH Studio Aniya vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch both offer unique features worth taking into account. The Aniya switch is praised for its balanced sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky tone without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, each keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch stands out for its budget-friendly option that maintains a poppy and clacky sound profile alongside a creamy, tactile 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom components. The Aniya utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro opts for polycarbonate in the top housing, creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The use of nylon in the V3 Cream Blue Pro's bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper sound, thanks to its softer nature compared to POM.
In terms of sound production, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall auditory experience of a mechanical keyboard. The POM top housing in the Aniya creates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Cream Blue Pro produces a sharper and crisper sound, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. The nylon bottom housing in the V3 Cream Blue Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Aniya.
While both the Aniya and the V3 Cream Blue Pro aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, their choice of housing materials in the top and bottom components leads to distinct sound profiles. The split between POM and nylon in the Aniya versus polycarbonate and nylon in the V3 Cream Blue Pro highlights how these materials impact the sound and feel of keystrokes. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper one, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience on these mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams while the V3 Cream Blue Pro needs 55 grams. This means that the Aniya switch is lighter both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation force, so users can expect comparable performance in that aspect. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize fast responsiveness. The Aniya is slightly shorter in terms of travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro, which may result in a slightly quicker key press. However, the difference between 3.2 mm and 3.3 mm may not be significant enough to notice in practical use. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aniya or the V3 Cream Blue Pro will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience you prefer.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that is sharp and crisp, providing a pleasing auditory experience without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch produces a poppy and clacky sound that is distinct and lively, perfect for those who enjoy a tactile feedback paired with a creamy sensation. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch is described as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and silky typing experience that feels refined and effortless. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is accented and bouncy, providing a tactile feedback that is prominent yet not overwhelming, with a lively rebound when the keys are pressed. Both switches offer a different feel that enhances the typing experience, appealing to users with varying preferences for key feel and feedback.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch both offer unique sound profiles and tactile feels that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound with a smooth and creamy feel or a poppy, tactile sound with a bouncy and accented key feel, both switches provide quality options for users looking to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth keystroke and medium-light actuation force, the Aniya may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct poppy and clacky sound with a creamy, tactile sensation and a switch that provides a bouncy and snappy feedback, the V3 Cream Blue Pro could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you desire before making your decision.
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