PH Studio Aniya vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya linear switch is known for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a more pronounced clacky sound while maintaining a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the EF Grayish tactile switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium weight, making it a stellar default tactile option at an approachable price point. While the Aniya switch provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a polished feel, the EF Grayish switch offers a snappy and stepped tactility. 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
59g
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
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Aniya's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and fuller sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, perfect for showcasing RGB lighting, while the softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Aesthetically speaking, the translucent polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch allows for a visually appealing display of RGB lighting, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. In comparison, the POM top housing of the Aniya switch may not offer the same level of customization with RGB lighting. However, both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences - the deeper and muted sound of the Aniya versus the sharper and crisper sound of the EverFree (EF) Grayish.
Ultimately, the choice between the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches will come down to personal preference. Those who prefer a deeper and more muted sound may be drawn to the Aniya with its POM housing, while individuals looking for a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the EverFree (EF) Grayish with its polycarbonate and nylon housings. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience and contribute to a satisfying sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that these switches offer different levels of resistance. The Aniya switch has a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the EverFree Grayish switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams, giving it a more substantial push feel. However, the bottom out force for the EverFree Grayish switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Aniya switch in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Aniya switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more tactile and resistant typing experience may lean towards the EverFree Grayish switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aniya linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among users looking for faster response times, especially gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish providing a slightly deeper press compared to the Aniya. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 is known for its clacky and slightly high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various settings without being too loud or distracting. While the Aniya leans towards a more pronounced clacky sound, the EF Grayish provides a more balanced and versatile sound profile that can cater to a wider range of preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound would depend on individual preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Turning to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch stands out for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile feedback that feels more mild and responsive. The silky feel of the Aniya switch contrasts with the snappy response of the EF Grayish switch, catering to different preferences in terms of key travel and typing feedback. Both switches offer a unique typing experience that can enhance the overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch each bring their own strengths to the table. The Aniya excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, while the EF Grayish offers a more neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feedback. Depending on whether one prioritizes sound or feel in their typing experience, both switches are capable of delivering satisfactory results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a more pronounced clacky sound profile, then the Aniya linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium weight and neutral sound signature that is suitable for a variety of purposes, then the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch could be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Aniya linear switch and the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch depends on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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