PH Studio Aniya vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both offer unique features and characteristics worth considering. The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is renowned for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke with the Aniya is a delight. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch provides a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still maintaining a frictionless and smooth typing feel. Both switches are categorized as creamy and polished, but the Aniya offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, whereas the New North Pole V2 focuses on a frictionless 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron New North Pole V2 differ in their housing materials, with the Aniya featuring a POM top and bottom housing, while the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The POM housing in the Aniya creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, which may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing in the New North Pole V2 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing noise.
Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the New North Pole V2 allows for the transmission of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. On the other hand, the POM housing of the Aniya does not offer this feature, but it provides a unique sound profile that some users may find more pleasing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate also contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile in the New North Pole V2, highlighting the differences in sound between the two keyboards.
Overall, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron New North Pole V2 housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the POM housing of the Aniya offers a deeper and more muted sound, the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 provides a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Regardless of the choice, users can expect high-quality performance and sound from both keyboards.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch is lighter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Aniya requires 42 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the New North Pole V2 needs 50 grams to actuate and 62.5 grams to bottom out. This means that the Aniya provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the New North Pole V2. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Aniya may be the more suitable choice. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the New North Pole V2 due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Aniya switch will provide a faster response time compared to the New North Pole V2 switch. Gamers who value quick reactions and shorter travel distances may prefer the Aniya switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the New North Pole V2 switch. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 tends to have a more pronounced clacky sound profile, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided. However, based on the absence of a rubber dampener in the New North Pole V2, it is likely to provide a crisper typing experience compared to the Aniya. In terms of feel, both switches are described as offering a smooth and refined typing experience, with descriptors such as "creamy" and "polished" used for both. This suggests that users can expect a similar tactile feel with both switches, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, while the sound profiles may differ slightly between the switches, the overall typing feel is likely to be quite comparable, making either switch a solid choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following factors to make an informed choice. If you prioritize a more pronounced clacky sound profile with a medium-light actuation force and a smooth typing experience, then the Aniya switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, coupled with a frictionless and smooth key travel, the New North Pole V2 switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should align with your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely based on what attributes matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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