PH Studio Aniya vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches stand out as compelling options. The Aniya switch, known for its balanced sound profile with a pronounced clacky feel, offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is tailored for gamers, providing effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, along with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for speedy response times. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, whether you prioritize a smoother feel and medium-light actuation or a fast, responsive gaming experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Aniya featuring POM for both the top and bottom housing, while the V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POM housing in the Aniya creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Silver Pro produces a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the V3 Silver Pro provides a fuller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing in the Aniya.
In terms of sound profiles, the POM housing in the Aniya offers a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted, which may cater to those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Silver Pro creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a crisper typing sound. The nylon bottom housing in the V3 Silver Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing in the Aniya.
While the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and Akko V3 Silver Pro differ in terms of their impact on sound profiles, they both provide distinct typing experiences based on the unique properties of their materials. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a combination of qualities to be felt when typing on the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Aniya or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Silver Pro, users can expect a satisfying and tailored typing experience based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is clear that both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aniya is 50 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. Overall, both switches offer a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro, while individuals who enjoy a slightly more substantial feel may opt for the Aniya. In terms of weight, both switches provide a similar typing experience, allowing users to achieve comparable results regardless of their choice.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for speed and quick response times. The Aniya offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking maximum responsiveness. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Silver 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 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as having a high-pitched sound that delivers a crisp and sharp sound when pressed. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Aniya leaning towards a clackier sound while the V3 Silver Pro focusing on a pleasing bassy tone that glides effortlessly with each keystroke.
Moving on to feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with every key press. This is achieved through the use of materials like Ly in the stem, creating a polished and refined finish that reduces friction and enhances the overall typing feel. The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, on the other hand, is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate while providing a light and comfortable typing experience. Both switches prioritize different aspects of typing feel, with the Aniya focusing on smoothness and the V3 Silver Pro emphasizing low-impact and responsive key presses.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Aniya provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile coupled with a creamy and silky typing experience, while the V3 Silver Pro delivers a high-pitched sound with easy-to-press and feathery key presses. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Additionally, both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience with distinct characteristics, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of sound quality regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Aniya linear switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should take into account your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound profile with a smooth feel, the Aniya switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch with a lighter actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick keystrokes, the V3 Silver Pro switch would suit your needs better. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what key characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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