PH Studio Aniya vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it's clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya boasts a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches provide a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, appealing to users seeking a balanced typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro differ in terms of the top and bottom housings. The Aniya utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deep and muted sound profile. In comparison, the Violet Gold Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Violet Gold Pro, on the other hand, produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition. While the Aniya maintains consistency with its POM housings, the Violet Gold Pro offers a mix of distinctive sound profiles from its different housing materials.
Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dareu Violet Gold Pro allows for greater light transmission, ideal for enhancing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the POM housings of the PH Studio Aniya may not offer the same level of light diffusion. However, both housing materials have their own unique sound characteristics. The POM housings of the Aniya create a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, while the polycarbonate and nylon housings of the Violet Gold Pro offer sharper or fuller sound profiles, respectively. These differences in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the bottom and top housings each play a distinct role. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. The split use of POM and nylon in the housings of the Aniya and Violet Gold Pro allows for a combination of qualities in sound production. While the Aniya maintains a consistent sound profile throughout, the Violet Gold Pro offers a dynamic typing experience with its contrasting top and bottom housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
Comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the Aniya has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams, making the Aniya easier to trigger keystrokes with. Additionally, the Aniya also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. This means that the Aniya switch provides a more consistent and smoother typing experience overall. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro may be the preferred choice. Both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to select the one that best suits their typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Aniya has a shorter travel distance compared to the Violet Gold Pro. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial and satisfying key press. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their respective travel distances, with the Aniya providing a quicker and more concise feel, and the Violet Gold Pro offering a slightly more drawn-out key press. 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 best described as having a clacky and moderately high-pitched sound profile. This means that each keystroke produces a sharp and snappy sound that is not overly loud, providing a pleasant auditory experience for the user. In comparison, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is noted for its neutral sound signature, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. If you prefer a more pronounced and clacky sound, the Aniya switch would be the preferred choice, while the Violet Gold Pro switch provides a balanced sound experience suitable for various typing preferences.
Moving on to the feel, the Aniya linear switch is lauded for its creamy and polished typing experience. This equates to a smooth and buttery feel when typing, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material in the switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is characterized as stepped, offering a tactile bump that feels more mild compared to hyper-tactile switches. If you enjoy a silky and refined typing sensation with minimal resistance, the Aniya switch would be a great fit. However, if you prefer a tactile bump with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages, the Violet Gold Pro switch may be more appealing to you.
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy, polished feel, ideal for those seeking a smooth typing experience with satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feel, making it a versatile option for users looking for a balanced typing experience. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both in your mechanical keyboard switch choice, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, medium-light actuation, the Aniya may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature and a tactile switch with a fairly light touch, the Violet Gold Pro could offer a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking. Whichever switch you choose, both the Aniya and the Violet Gold Pro offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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