BOXX vs VTI
Alpha Architect 1-3 Month Box ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BOXX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $13.2B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +2.32% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.08% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.69% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 0.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -0.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 28, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
BOXX vs VTI Performance
Alpha Architect 1-3 Month Box ETF (BOXX) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BOXX returned +4.08% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, BOXX is up 2.32% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, BOXX compounded at +4.69% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +4.70%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 0.3% for BOXX. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -0.1% for BOXX and -56.6% for VTI. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at -0.13. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BOXX charges 0.19% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $3 annually, a gap of $16 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BOXX currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BOXX or VTI?
BOXX has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $16 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BOXX or VTI?
Over the past year BOXX returned +4.08% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), BOXX annualized +4.70% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BOXX or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 0.3% for BOXX. Worst drawdown: BOXX -0.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both BOXX and VTI?
BOXX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.13, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BOXX or VTI?
BOXX yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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