PH Studio Aniya vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Aniya linear switch is praised for its harmonious sound profile, featuring a pronounced clacky sound that is not overwhelming. On the other hand, the Box Navy clicky switch offers a heavy typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, with a sharp and invigorating sound signature. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh Box Navy, one major difference is the material used for the top housing. The Aniya utilizes POM top housing which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Box Navy allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially beneficial for users planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Aniya offers a unique sound that is more on the muffled side.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Aniya and the Box Navy also differ in their choice of material. The Aniya uses POM for the bottom housing, which again creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Box Navy utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, giving typing on the Box Navy a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in materials used for the bottom housing affects the overall sound profile and feel of each keyboard switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Aniya and the Box Navy, both switches showcase unique qualities that cater to different sound preferences. While the Aniya focuses on a more muffled and pleasing sound with POM housings for both the top and bottom, the Box Navy offers a sharper and crisper sound with a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing. Regardless of the differences, the impact of each housing material on the sound profile and typing experience is evident, showcasing the importance of housing materials in keyboard switches.
Weight
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch. The Aniya requires 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Box Navy needs 60 grams to actuate and 90 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier switch overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aniya, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Box Navy provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Despite their differences in force requirements, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Box Navy has a longer travel distance compared to the Aniya. The Aniya's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times, while the Box Navy's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is not excessively high-pitched. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crunchy autumn leaves. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Aniya leaning towards a more balanced clacky sound and the Box Navy offering a vintage, clicky feel.
In terms of feel, the Aniya switch is described as providing a remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material, offering medium-light actuation. Conversely, the Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, invigorating feel, and a stiffer actuation force that requires more effort to press the keys. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Aniya focusing on smoothness and ease of typing, while the Box Navy delivers a more pronounced and firm tactile bump.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offer contrasting yet equally satisfying experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya provides a balanced clacky sound and a creamy typing feel, making each keystroke a delight, while the Box Navy delivers a resonant, sharp sound and a sharp, invigorating tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a smoother, lighter actuation with a more balanced sound profile, the Aniya is the way to go. For those who prefer a heavier, clickier experience with sharp tactile feedback, the Box Navy will deliver similar satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, you should consider your preference for key feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium-light actuation and a balanced clacky sound, the Aniya switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a sharp tactile bump and a loud, resonant clicky sound, the Box Navy switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what tactile and auditory sensations you prefer while typing.
Mentioned in this article
