PH Studio Aniya vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch stand out as compelling options. The Aniya offers a harmonious balance in sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound that is not overly loud, providing a pleasant auditory experience. Its smooth feel and medium-light actuation make typing a delight. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches from Gateron are praised for their smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, giving off a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched "thock" sound. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them desirable choices for different preferences. 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
52g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer unique sound profiles but through different materials. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast indicates that the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience of a keyboard switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Aniya's POM bottom housing and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both materials are known for their ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in the bottom housing materials of these switches suggests that they may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a keyboard switch play different roles in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material has a larger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. Understanding the qualities of each housing material can help users make informed decisions about which keyboard switch will best suit their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation forces, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Aniya requires 50 grams, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) requires 52 grams. This slight difference means that the Aniya may bottom out a bit easier compared to the Milky Red Pro. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience, with the Aniya being slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya switch would be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 is known for its slightly higher-pitched and clacky profile, providing a crisp and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a low-pitched "thock" sound that is deep and rich, adding a pleasant acoustic element to typing. In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is described as smooth and creamy, offering a silky sensation with each press, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is noted for its buttery and uniform typing experience. Both switches provide a delightful feel and sound, with the Aniya leaning towards a more pronounced sound profile and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offering a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent qualities, ensuring a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a clacky sound with a smooth feel or a thocky sound with a buttery touch, both switches will deliver comparable results in different aspects, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a more pronounced clacky sound profile, a smooth feel, and a light bottom out force, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pleasing thocky sound, a buttery smooth typing experience, and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal sound and feel preferences, as both the Aniya and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences.
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