PH Studio Aniya vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch are both unique mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features for different preferences. The Aniya linear switch is praised for its harmonious balance in sound profile, leaning toward a more pronounced clacky sound without being overwhelmingly loud. With a smooth feel and medium-light actuation, every keystroke is a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Box White clicky switch is designed for maximum audio feedback, providing a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility while typing. Both switches offer a polished feel and resonant sound, but the Aniya is creamier while the Box White is crunchier. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
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
Yes
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 White, one can see significant differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Aniya's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Box White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the typing experience for mechanical keyboard users, as the type of sound produced can impact the overall feel of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Aniya's POM bottom housing retains its unique sound profile, while the Box White's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile compared to the stiffer POM material. This difference can be felt in the typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing material greatly influences the sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the Aniya and Box White switches may have different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each material on the sound and feel of the switch is notable. Whether it be the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, keyboard enthusiasts can tailor their typing experience to their preferences based on the housing material used in their switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, it is evident that the Aniya is lighter in both categories compared to the Box White. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Aniya requires a lighter touch to register a keypress and bottom out compared to the Box White. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aniya would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Box White would be the more suitable option. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their weight, making it important for users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, we can see that the Aniya has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm while the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aniya switch will provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the Box White switch. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers looking for faster input. Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize quick response times or a more substantial key press feel.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch offers a clacky and medium-high-pitched profile that elicits a sharp and snappy keystroke sound. Despite being audible, it maintains a pleasant auditory experience without being overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White clicky switch provides a resonant and high-pitched click with a unique "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch sound, offering maximum audio feedback for those seeking a more pronounced typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aniya switch boasts a creamy and silky typing experience, thanks to the use of Ly as the stem material. This results in a remarkably smooth feel and medium-light actuation that makes typing a delightful and effortless task. In contrast, the Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring a sleek key travel.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel for both switches, individuals who prefer a more harmonious and medium-high-pitched sound profile with a creamy and silky typing experience would lean towards the PH Studio Aniya linear switch. On the other hand, those seeking maximum audio feedback with a more pronounced sound and a polished typing feel would gravitate towards the Kailh Box White clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both deliver quality performance in their respective aspects.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, consider the factors of sound and feel. If you prefer a more harmonious sound profile that leans towards a pronounced clacky sound but not overwhelmingly loud, along with a smooth and medium-light actuation feel, then the Aniya switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you desire maximum audio feedback with a crunchy and resonant sound profile, along with a polished and smooth key travel feel, then the Box White switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer, whether it be a more subtle and smooth one with the Aniya switch or a more audibly satisfying one with the Box White switch.
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