Durock Blue Lotus vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and PH Studio Yoel stand out with unique characteristics. The Durock Blue Lotus is a tactile switch that offers a blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who prefer a marked tactile feel with its slightly reduced travel distance. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel is a linear switch that provides a chewy typing experience and a bright, clacky sound profile when keys bottom out. While the Blue Lotus excels in tactile feedback and visual appeal with its RGB illumination, the Yoel shines in its satisfying sound profile and smooth typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and PH Studio Yoel both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a premium and unique feel, while the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Both materials are known for their stiffness, which helps to create a clear and resonant sound when typing. However, the Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend housing may offer a different tactile experience compared to the Yoel's polycarbonate housing.
In terms of bottom housing, the Blue Lotus utilizes a nylon material, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing that produces a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and more muted quality. The difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches may result in a varying tactile experience when typing. It is important to consider how the bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus and PH Studio Yoel will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches utilize premium housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles, the Blue Lotus may offer a different tactile experience due to its modified PC & UPE Blend top housing compared to the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing. Regardless, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique and premium switch option.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus is slightly heavier in both aspects. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Blue Lotus a better choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel, as it offers a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches provide a good balance between actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2 mm. The difference may seem slight, but it can affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch. The Blue Lotus may provide a more satisfying keystroke with its longer travel distance, while the Yoel's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most traditional and 3.0mm the most shallow. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch has a clacky and high-pitched profile, with a crisp and bright sound when pressed. The Yoel also has a marbly and resonant quality, offering a sharp and clean sound experience. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switch is described as accented and snappy, delivering a medium tactile feel with a noticeable responsiveness. On the other hand, the Yoel switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Each switch offers a different tactile sensation, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback or a smoother keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus switch and the PH Studio Yoel switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Blue Lotus excels in providing a snappy and tactile typing experience with a bassy sound profile, while the Yoel showcases a smooth and creamy feel with a clacky and resonant sound profile. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and unique characteristics that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for tactile intensity and sound profile. If you value a marked tactile feel with swift responsiveness and a snappy typing experience, then the Durock Blue Lotus switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, then the PH Studio Yoel linear switch with its medium bottom out force of 60 grams could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize tactile feedback and responsiveness or sound profile and typing experience when selecting your mechanical keyboard switch.
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