Gateron Aliaz vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the PH Studio Yoel, a linear switch, offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is best suited for quiet environments like the office, providing a medium-heavy weight that offers a substantial feel to each keystroke without the noise. On the other hand, the Yoel switch, known for its linear design, delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out. While the Aliaz switch emphasizes a muted and polished typing experience, the Yoel switch showcases a creamy and marbly sensation. 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
60g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the PH Studio Yoel switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiff nature, creating a clear and resonant audio experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. Despite both switches utilizing the same material for their top housing, slight differences in design and construction may result in unique sound profiles for each switch.
In contrast, the Gateron Aliaz utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, continuing the trend of creating a sharper sound profile with clear resonance. The PH Studio Yoel, on the other hand, utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Gateron Aliaz and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate in their top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Gateron Aliaz offers a consistently crisp and clear sound profile throughout, thanks to its use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel provides a unique sound experience with a deeper and more muted sound profile, achieved through the combination of polycarbonate and POM in its housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 53 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz is also heavier at 75 grams, while the Yoel is lighter at 60 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches reflects the preference for a stronger or lighter push feel when typing. Some may appreciate the heavier force of the Aliaz for a more substantial typing experience, while others may prefer the lighter weight of the Yoel for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Yoel. The Aliaz's 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth to the key press, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel's 3.2 mm travel distance provides a slightly faster response time, making it preferable for gamers looking for quick key actuation. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varying travel distances, catering to different preferences based on individual typing or gaming needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a longer, more deliberate key press or a quicker, more responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. This makes it ideal for use in quiet environments such as offices where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a more clacky and high-pitched sound profile, creating a bright and resonant typing experience with each key press. The Yoel switch produces a satisfying and pronounced sound when keys reach their bottom-out point, adding to the overall tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, both the Aliaz and Yoel switches offer smooth and polished typing experiences. The Aliaz switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This makes typing on the Aliaz switch a refined and comfortable experience. Similarly, the Yoel switch is also described as polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the Yoel switch is labeled as creamy, providing a buttery sensation with each keystroke, making it feel like fingers effortlessly glide across the keys.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is clear that they offer different sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is best suited for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, while the Yoel switch is ideal for individuals who enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile coupled with a creamy and polished feel. Depending on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your environment and personal preferences. If you value a quiet typing experience and prefer a heavier keypress, the Aliaz switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a brighter and clacky sound profile with a medium keypress, the Yoel switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your typing style and the atmosphere in which you'll be using your mechanical keyboard.
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