Bsun Akashi vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique and distinct typing experiences. The Akashi stands out for its redefined tactile feedback, thanks to a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination. This results in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound, combined with a deep acoustic richness, offering a novel and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel switch, also produced by BSUN, provides a chewy typing feel that envelopes the fingertips with each press. Its bright and clacky sound profile adds to the satisfying resonance when keys bottom-out. Both switches are categorized with attributes like 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', and 'Silky'. 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
37g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique sound profiles and characteristics. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Yoel's top housing also allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. In contrast, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing mirrors the deep and muted sound of its top housing.
Despite the differences in material for the top and bottom housings of the Akashi and Yoel switches, both options provide unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience. The use of nylon in the Akashi's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel switch offers a deeper and more muted sound profile that complements its top housing material. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the sharper, crisper sound of the Yoel switch or the deeper, fuller sound of the Akashi switch.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Yoel ultimately comes down to individual preference in sound profile and typing feel. While the Akashi's housing materials create a more muted and deep sound, the Yoel's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a crisper, more defined sound, both the Akashi and Yoel switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Akashi provides a light typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may become a concern. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Those looking for a lighter switch may find the Akashi more suitable, while those looking for a switch with a heavier feel may prefer the Yoel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel has a shorter travel distance compared to the Akashi. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for quick response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 Akashi linear switch is known for its bright and crisp bottom-out sound, thanks to the UPE stem and hybrid housing combination that deepens the acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a satisfying resonance upon bottoming-out, providing a distinctive auditory experience for typists. While both switches share the descriptor of being clacky, the Akashi tends to have a more resonant and rich sound, whereas the Yoel is characterized by its bright and pronounced clackiness.
When it comes to feel, both the Akashi and Yoel linear switches are described as offering a creamy and polished typing experience, resulting in smooth and buttery keystrokes. These switches are designed to minimize friction and offer a fluid key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. With descriptors like silky and easy-to-press, both switches prioritize a comfortable and responsive typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The meticulous design of these switches ensures that every keystroke feels effortlessly smooth and polished.
Overall, while the Akashi and Yoel linear switches share some similarities in sound and feel, they each offer a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Akashi provides a resonant and rich sound profile with a creamy and frictionless feel, perfect for those who prefer a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel delivers a bright and clacky sound with a polished and silky feel, appealing to typists who enjoy a more pronounced and responsive keystroke. Ultimately, both switches guarantee a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a unique resonant typing experience with a bright, crisp bottom-out sound, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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