PH Studio Aniya vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya and Gateron Zero Degree 0° are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aniya is praised for its harmonious sound profile, striking a balance between a clacky and creamy sound. It also features a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, providing a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, ensuring unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users depending on their 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature unique housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches. The Aniya's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aniya's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and pleasing sound, compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing which creates a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
In terms of sound production, the choices of housing materials between the Aniya and the Zero Degree 0° make a significant difference. The POM and polycarbonate materials offer contrasting sound profiles, with POM resulting in a more muted sound compared to the crisper and sharper sound of polycarbonate. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing on the Zero Degree 0° absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Both switches utilize different materials for the top and bottom housings, which further impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While the Aniya's POM housing may provide a unique and pleasing sound, the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate and nylon combination offers a crisper and fuller sound experience. Both switches showcase how housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the typing experience, showcasing the importance of material selection in the design and construction of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's actuation force of 45 grams, making the Aniya easier to press for keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Aniya requires a slightly heavier force of 50 grams while the bottom out force for the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Aniya may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°, as it offers a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, while both switches have similarities in their linear design, the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to different preferences in key feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Aniya would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° may offer a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of response time and key feel.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is known for its slightly clacky sound profile and smooth, creamy feel. The sound produced is not overly loud but has a pronounced clackiness to it, providing a satisfying auditory experience. The use of Ly as the stem material enhances the smoothness of the switch, making each keystroke feel effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to deliver a silent typing experience with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. While the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° is not described in the information provided, it is likely to be quieter and more subdued compared to the Aniya. In terms of feel, the Zero Degree 0° is not described in the provided information, but it is expected to offer a smooth and stable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aniya provides a slightly clacky sound and a creamy feel, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silent typing with its innovative design. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the two switches to suit their needs. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide a pleasant and efficient typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy their mechanical keyboards to the fullest.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the PH Studio Aniya linear switch versus the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, your choice should be based on your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, medium-light actuation, then the Aniya may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° with its innovative self-padding design might be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your personal preferences in sound and feel when selecting between the Aniya and Zero Degree 0° linear switches.
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