PH Studio Aniya vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya switch is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black appeals to those who prefer a heavier typing experience, with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force for a more substantive feel. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Aniya switch boasts a medium-light actuation for a delightful keystroke, while the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a balanced medium-heavy feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black keyboards play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While both keyboards feature POM bottom housings which create a pleasing and muted sound profile, the Aniya utilizes a POM top housing for a deeper and more subdued sound. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and higher-pitched yet not overly sharp sound, often described as clacky. This distinction in top housing material results in a more distinct sound profile for the G Pro 3.0 Black compared to the Aniya.
Despite having different top housing materials, both the Aniya and the G Pro 3.0 Black share a similar bottom housing material in POM. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will be influenced by the POM material in both keyboards. The qualities of POM housings, such as creating a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side, will be experienced when pressing down on the keys. However, the top housing material will play a crucial role in determining the sound when letting go of a key. This highlights how the combination of different housing materials can result in varied auditory experiences when typing on these keyboards.
In terms of sound profiles, the Aniya with its POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black with its proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound often described as clacky. The distribution of housing materials across the top and bottom of the switches further influences the overall feel and sound of typing on these keyboards. Whether you prefer a more muted and deep sound or a clacky and high-pitched sound, the choice between the Aniya and the G Pro 3.0 Black ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is clear that there is a significant difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smoother and less strenuous typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Aniya switch more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a firmer keypress may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya provides a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a deeper keypress, which some users may find more satisfying. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference – whether you prioritize speed and agility with the Aniya, or a more substantial keypress with the G Pro 3.0 Black.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 has a more clacky and audible profile compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, which is described as having a more subdued sound. The Aniya leans towards a sharper and more pronounced clackiness, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a dampened and more subtle sound signature. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience that will cater to different preferences, with the Aniya being more vibrant and percussive, and the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a quieter and more understated sound. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The Aniya is noted for its creamy and polished feel, providing a buttery and refined sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black also offers a creamy and silky typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches aim to optimize typing comfort and efficiency, with the Aniya emphasizing smoothness and the G Pro 3.0 Black focusing on a balanced medium-heavy feel. With these qualities, users can expect a delightful typing experience that caters to their individual preferences and typing habits.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya is characterized by a clacky and pronounced sound profile, coupled with a smooth and buttery typing feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more subdued sound experience, along with a creamy and silky typing sensation. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience, with the Aniya leaning towards a more vibrant and percussive sound and the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a quieter and more understated sound. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider the factors of sound profile and feel. If you prefer a more clacky sound with a medium-light actuation and smooth feel, the Aniya switch might suit your preferences. On the other hand, if you desire a medium-high pitch sound with a medium-heavy typing experience and smooth feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lighter and smoother typing experience or a slightly heavier typing feel with a more pronounced sound profile. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences for a satisfying keyboard experience.
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