PH Studio Aniya vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aniya switch, known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make every keystroke a delight, perfect for those who appreciate a creamy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing feel. Those who prefer a bouncy and polished switch may find the Crystal Pro to be the ideal choice. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Aniya's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound, while the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile can greatly influence the typing experience for users, with the POM housing offering a more subdued typing experience compared to the more pronounced sound of the polycarbonate housing.
Aesthetically, the housing materials also play a role in the overall design of the switches. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing allows for a translucent design, making it ideal for users who enjoy RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Aniya's POM housing does not offer the same level of translucency, which may not be as visually appealing for users who prioritize RGB lighting in their setup. While both housing materials are durable and offer a premium feel, the choice between POM and polycarbonate may ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
Overall, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will ultimately depend on the user's preferences for sound profile, typing experience, and aesthetics. Both housing materials have their own unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, with POM offering a deeper and more muted sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate. Whether you prioritize a translucent design for RGB lighting or prefer a more subdued typing experience, both switches offer premium housing materials that are sure to elevate your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Aniya is the lighter option while the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier option. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro boasts an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who enjoy a bit more resistance. While both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, those who prioritize a lighter touch may prefer the Aniya, while those seeking a more robust feel may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of 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 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Aniya offers a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. A shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for faster response times, making the Aniya a suitable choice for those looking for quick feedback. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual is looking for in their typing experience.
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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a clacky sound profile that leans towards a more pronounced sharp and snappy sound, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with a chirpy sound signature, adding a unique squeak to the typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct sound qualities, with the Aniya focusing on a more clacky and high-pitched sound, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bright and chirpy acoustic profile. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a sharper clacky sound or a more unique chirpy sound.
In terms of feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch provides a creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery keystrokes with minimal resistance. The medium-light actuation combined with the Ly stem material results in a remarkably pleasant sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is described as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. Users can expect a lively and rebounding feel while experiencing a sleek and refined typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Aniya focusing on a smoother and creamier feel, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncier and polished typing experience.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aniya excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, while the V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its chirpy sound signature and bouncy feel. Depending on whether users prefer a sharper or more unique sound and a smoother or bouncier typing experience, they can choose between these two switches to enhance their overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preferences in sound and feel. If you prefer a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, the Aniya switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the Crystal Pro switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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