PH Studio Aniya vs. Kailh Box White V2

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the differences between the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh Box White V2 become immediately apparent, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. The PH Studio Aniya, a linear switch crafted by BSUN, offers a pleasurable auditory experience with its carefully balanced sound profile—not too high-pitched, but audibly clacky enough to provide satisfaction without being overwhelming. Its Ly stem material contributes to a remarkably smooth typing feel, paired with a medium-light actuation that ensures every keystroke feels delightful and effortless. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 features a clicky design that delivers crisp tactile feedback along with an unmistakable audible click with every press, making it an enticing choice for typists who thrive on the satisfying sound of confirmation with each keystroke. While the smoothness of the Aniya caters to those who appreciate a quieter, fluid typing experience, the Box White V2 revels in its attention-grabbing clickiness that can enhance typing rhythm. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

PH Studio Aniya Linear

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$4.50

$4.20 per 10

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh Box White V2 switches exhibit notable differences that contribute distinctly to the overall auditory and tactile experience. The Aniya switch features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing which is known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. This characteristic is due to POM’s unique properties, which create a pleasant and soft auditory effect. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 incorporates a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and clearer sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to its crispness, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing, particularly when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency.

In addition to their differing top housings, the bottom housing materials further differentiate the two switches' sound profiles. The Aniya's bottom housing is also made of POM, and this harmonious pairing with the top housing ensures consistency in producing a unique sound signature that remains deep and more muted. Conversely, the Kailh Box White V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its softer properties. Nylon tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. Thus, while both switches may share similarities in that the Aniya favors the deep sound profile of POM throughout, the Box White V2 achieves a contrast by combining a sharper top with a deeper, more absorbing bottom material.

When considering how these differing materials affect the typing experience, it is essential to understand that each housing contributes differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch. For both the Aniya and the Box White V2 switches, the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the release sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Aniya achieves a cohesive, muted sound throughout due to identical POM materials, the Kailh Box White V2 creates a more varied audio experience by integrating distinct materials that complement each other, providing a synthesis of deeper and sharper tones. Ultimately, users may achieve pleasant results from each switch based on their preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.

Weight

The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch present a fascinating comparison in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aniya switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Box White V2's 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, especially during extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, ensuring that they provide a consistent feel when a key is pressed all the way down. Therefore, while the Aniya is the lighter option for actuation, both switches deliver a similar experience at the bottom out stage. If one desires a more substantial typing experience yet still values prolonged comfort, the Kailh Box White V2's heavier actuation force might be the preferable choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch, it is evident that the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Box White V2 measures 3.6 mm. This difference highlights the preference for responsiveness in the Aniya, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation and faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Box White V2, at 3.6 mm, offers a more pronounced depth, which some users might find more satisfying and suited to typists who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the Aniya provides a snappier feel for quick actions, while the Box White V2 caters to those who prefer a robust typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch presents a nuanced auditory profile that strikes a harmonious balance without being overly dominant. It has a clacky sound that is crisp and bright, leaning towards a high-pitched resonance but remains moderate in volume. This results in an engaging yet pleasant typing experience that is audible without being intrusive. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch is designed to provide a pronounced and crisp auditory feedback with its signature click sound upon actuation. This creates a clear and satisfying auditory response that many typists find appealing, especially in a clicky switch. Thus, while both switches offer unique sounds, the Aniya's pronounced clack contrasts with the sharp clicks of the Box White V2, offering different experiences depending on user preference.

In terms of feel, the Aniya switch excels with its creamy and silky sensations that provide a notably smooth typing experience. The use of Ly as the stem material enhances this buttery glide, making each keystroke feel effortless and pleasurable. This smoothness is a hallmark of the Aniya, often attributed to its design and possibly factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Box White V2, while inherently clicky, does not emphasize the same level of smoothness. Instead, it is designed to provide distinct tactile feedback at the actuation point, resulting in a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel that may not match the effortless glide of the Aniya.

In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya and Kailh Box White V2 switches cater to distinct preferences, each offering unique sound profiles and tactile sensations. The Aniya's harmonious, clacky sound and smooth typing feel create a delightful experience best suited for users who enjoy a linear switch's subtleties. Meanwhile, the Kailh Box White V2’s crisp click sound and tactile feedback appeal to those who prefer an audible confirmation of their key presses. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, both switches can yield a satisfying experience, albeit in their distinct ways.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth, buttery typing experience with a more subtle auditory feedback, the Aniya is the way to go. Its clacky sound profile is pleasantly audible without being overwhelming, making it a great choice for both casual typing and gaming where sensitivity to noise is a consideration. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile experience with pronounced auditory feedback, the Box White V2 is ideal. Its crisp click and tactile bump provide clear, satisfying feedback that can enhance your typing, especially for typing-intensive tasks. Remember that both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, so your choice will largely depend on whether you lean towards a smoother, quieter approach with the Aniya or a more tactile and clicky experience with the Box White V2. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique traits that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.

Mentioned in this article

PH Studio Aniya Linear

$4.50

$4.20 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more