PH Studio Aniya vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics for different typing preferences. The Aniya linear switch by PH Studio is lauded for its harmonious sound profile, leaning towards a pronounced clacky tone while still maintaining a pleasant auditory experience. With a smooth feel attributed to the stem material and a medium-light actuation, every keystroke is a delight. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 by Gateron is described as gummy, providing a deep and muted sound profile with a satisfying chewy typing feel. While both switches excel in their respective categories such as clacky and gummy, each offers a distinct typing experience. Ultimately, diving deeper into the specifics of these switches will aid in selecting the best option to suit individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aniya features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The translucency of polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 is especially useful for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch.
In terms of construction, the housing materials of the Aniya and the North Pole V2 play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The relatively stiffer polycarbonate material used in the North Pole V2 contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the flexibility of POM in the Aniya offers a more muted and deeper sound. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced in both switches, with the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing materials provide users with a variety of options to choose from based on their sound and tactile preferences.
While the Aniya and the North Pole V2 feature different housing materials, they both excel in providing users with unique and pleasing sound profiles. The use of POM in the Aniya creates a distinct deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate material in the North Pole V2 offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches leverage their housing materials to cater to different preferences and provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer a high-quality construction that enhances the overall performance of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the North Pole V2 switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. The difference in weight between the two switches offers users the option to choose based on their preferences for typing or gaming experiences. Overall, the Aniya switch offers a lighter typing experience compared to the medium-heavy feel of the North Pole V2 switch.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In general, a shorter travel distance can result in faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel and performance each individual desires. Both switches offer different travel distances, catering to a variety of preferences and needs in the mechanical keyboard community.
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 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 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 Aniya linear switch offers a more clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory experience that leans towards a pronounced clicky sound. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch produces a more subdued sound, giving off a deep and muted typing experience that is satisfying and chewy in nature. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Aniya being more pronounced and the North Pole V2 being more subtle.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aniya linear switch is described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. The use of Ly as the stem material provides a remarkably smooth feel, complemented by a medium-light actuation, making each keystroke a delight to type on. Conversely, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is described as gummy, providing a unique typing experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the Aniya focusing more on a silky sensation and the North Pole V2 delivering a bouncy and polished feel.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel experiences. The Aniya leans towards a clacky and higher-pitched sound profile with a creamy and silky feel, while the North Pole V2 provides a more subdued sound with a gummy and bouncy typing feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a more pronounced and sharp typing experience with the Aniya or a softer and chewier feel with the North Pole V2. Ultimately, both switches deliver quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced clacky sound profile and a smooth, medium-light actuation for a delightful typing experience, then the Aniya switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and more muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, then the North Pole V2 switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to consider what sound and feel you prefer before making your decision.
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