PH Studio Aniya vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the PH Studio Aniya and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents an intriguing juxtaposition of sound and feel that caters to different typing preferences. The Aniya, a linear switch crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its distinctively clacky sound profile that strikes a balance between auditory enjoyment and comfort, thanks to its medium-light actuation and silky smooth keystrokes. Its use of Ly as the stem material enhances the overall typing experience, making it a great choice for users seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback without the overwhelming noise typically associated with high-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) switch by Everglide leans towards a more neutral sound signature, delivering the satisfying "thock" sound that many enthusiasts crave. Its dustproof stem design minimizes wobble and provides a super smooth keystroke, appealing to those who value a refined tactile sensation in their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages: the Aniya entices with its engaging acoustic profile, while the Sticky Rice (V2) captivates with its polished feel and quiet operation. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it’s evident that they employ different materials for their top housings, which leads to distinct sound profiles. The Aniya utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene), a material known for creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively muted. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the material's stiffer properties. This fundamental difference means that while users of the Aniya may appreciate a warmer, softer auditory experience, those choosing the Sticky Rice (V2) are likely to enjoy brighter and more resonant feedback when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aniya employs POM again, which complements its top housing by maintaining a cohesive sound profile that is muted and rounded. Meanwhile, the Sticky Rice (V2) uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is recognized for its softer characteristics, leading to deeper, fuller sound—a contrast to the sound clarity offered by polycarbonate on the top. This divergence means that for users seeking a cohesive sound experience in a switch, the Aniya might provide a more unified auditory experience, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) allows for a more specialized interaction between the sharper top and the fuller bottom, enriching the overall typing sound.
Despite the differences in materials, there is a subtle interdependence between the top and bottom housings of both switches that influences the final sound experience. The Aniya’s POM top and bottom produce a consistent, albeit muted, sound profile, making it suitable for users who prefer a gentler auditory feedback. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) combines its polycarbonate top's clarity with nylon's depth to generate a richer sound atmosphere. For those curious about achieving similar results across switches, understanding the balance of materials used can help users select options that may align acoustically with their preferences, regardless of differing designs.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch both feature light actuation forces, with the Aniya requiring 42 grams to trigger a keystroke and the Sticky Rice (V2) needing just 40 grams. This slight difference in actuation force means that users might find the Sticky Rice (V2) marginally easier to press, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended sessions. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, ensuring that the overall force felt when fully pressing the key is consistent. This similarity in bottom out force allows both switches to provide a comparable tactile feedback at the end of the keystroke, regardless of their actuation differences. Consequently, while the Aniya offers a slightly heavier initial press, both switches remain on the lighter side overall, appealing to users who enjoy a less strenuous typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see a noticeable difference: the Aniya has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aniya’s shorter distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, allowing for quick keystrokes without as much depth. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its greater travel distance, provides a more tactile feel, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences—whether someone favors the immediacy of a shallower switch or the depth of a longer travel distance.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a distinctively clacky auditory experience. Its high-pitched tonal quality provides a sharp, snappy sound with a clean resonance that enthusiasts often find enjoyable. This clacky profile strikes a nice balance; while the switches are certainly noticeable, they aren't overly loud, making them suitable for both office and personal use. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a more neutral sound signature that leans towards a satisfying "thock," offering a more subdued yet impactful auditory feedback. The contrast between the two switches' sound profiles caters to different preferences—those who thrive on a crisp, bright sound might gravitate towards the Aniya, while others seeking a more bassy, rounded sound will appreciate the Sticky Rice.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch excels with its creamy, polished texture, ensuring a smooth and buttery typing experience. The use of the Ly stem material enhances the overall sensation, providing a delightful blend of light resistance and fluid key travel. Users can expect minimal friction and an overall silky tactile feedback with every keystroke. On the other hand, while the specific feel qualities of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) aren’t detailed, the switches are noted for their super smooth keystroke, aided by a dustproof stem that reduces wobble. This suggests that the Sticky Rice likely delivers a refined tactile experience, though the specific descriptors of smoothness or creaminess are unknown.
Considering both sound and feel, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer different auditory experiences and tactile sensations that will appeal to various types of users. The Aniya shines with its sharp, clacky sound and silky smooth feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy a dynamic typing experience. Conversely, the Sticky Rice’s thocky sound and smooth actuation provide a more subdued yet refined touch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound profile and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, your preferences for sound and feel will significantly guide your choice. Opt for the Aniya if you enjoy a slightly clacky and high-pitched sound profile that adds a lively character to your typing experience. Its light bottom-out force and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to its Ly stem material, make it particularly enjoyable for those who type frequently or engage in gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined auditory experience with a neutral sound signature that leans towards a satisfying "thock," the Sticky Rice (V2) is your best bet. Its super smooth keystroke, enhanced by the dustproof stem, offers an impressive tactile sensation for those who appreciate precision and performance without overwhelming auditory feedback. Ultimately, your individual typing style, sound preference, and tactile desires will be the deciding factors in your switch selection.
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