Akko Botany vs. PH Studio Yoel

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the PH Studio Yoel both present unique options for those seeking a linear experience, yet they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Botany switch is celebrated for its crisp and lively sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that makes every keystroke feel pronounced and enjoyable right out of the box. In contrast, the Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, offers a delectably chewy typing experience that envelops your fingertips with each press, bringing a bright and clacky resonance as keys reach their bottom-out point. While both switches promise a joyful typing journey, the Botany is ideal for those who appreciate a more straightforward but invigorating sound, whereas the Yoel will appeal to those who crave a richer, creamier tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Botany and PH Studio Yoel utilize distinct materials for their switch housings, fundamentally affecting their auditory character and tactile response. The Botany features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's relatively softer properties. This softer material absorbs sound waves more effectively, yielding a muted and round auditory quality, which creates an immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Yoel employs a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances clarity and resonance in sound production, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a brighter auditory experience, especially when RGB lighting is involved.

On the lower end of their respective designs, the Botany’s nylon bottom housing and the Yoel’s POM bottom housing also contribute uniquely to the overall feel and sound. Both nylon and POM are relatively soft compared to other plastics, yet they create distinct auditory signatures. The Botany’s nylon bottom housing continues with the theme of deeper and fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Yoel generates a muted yet pleasingly unique auditory experience, emphasizing a nice blend of depth and clarity. Despite the differences, both bottom materials will primarily influence the switch’s bottom-out feel and sound, leading to a substantial, comforting experience when typing.

When combining the unique properties of the top and bottom housings in both keyboards, it becomes clear that the interplay between materials defines the overall sound experience. For Akko Botany, the combination of a softer nylon top and bottom housing results in a consistently muted, full-bodied auditory experience. Meanwhile, the PH Studio Yoel, with its polycarbonate top and POM bottom, creates a hybrid sound profile that balances crispness and depth. If a user is looking for specific auditory qualities, they may find that the Botany’s deeper sound can create a warm typing experience, while the Yoel’s sharper tones suit those who prefer a more vivid and resonant touch. Thus, while the materials differ significantly, both arrangements can produce satisfying and enjoyable results, depending on the typing preferences of the user.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a more effortless typing experience that reduces fatigue during long sessions. In contrast, the Yoel switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel and tactile feedback while typing. This difference means the Yoel is better suited for users who enjoy a firmer push when typing, while the lighter Botany switch is better for prolonged use, such as in a work or gaming environment. Overall, if one is seeking a lighter switch for ease of use, the Akko Botany linear switch would be the preferred choice, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch would be better for those who favor a heavier, more tactile experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, the Botany has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yoel measures slightly shorter at 3.2 mm. This means that for users prioritizing responsiveness, the Yoel may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, which is often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Botany's longer travel distance might appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing down on keys, offering a sense of depth that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on individual preferences for key feel, with the Botany being the more substantial option and the Yoel catering to those seeking speed.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Akko Botany linear switch is crisp and lively, presenting a lively auditory experience straight out of the box. It is characterized by a bright and clacky nature, similar to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which also boasts a bright and clacky sound. The Yoel’s sound provides an additional depth at bottom-out, creating resonance that is both pronounced and satisfying. Both switches display a tendency towards a higher-pitched, clean, and resonant sound, making them suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate a sharp and engaging typing experience.

When considering their feel, the Akko Botany switch is renowned for its smooth action, though specific descriptors for the tactile sensations it provides are not available. In contrast, the Yoel switch stands out for its creamy, polished, and silky characteristics. This combination fosters a typing experience that feels buttery and effortless, allowing fingers to glide across the keys with minimal resistance. While the specific feel of the Botany is not elaborated upon, those who prioritize an easy-going typing experience may find that both switches could potentially yield a similarly pleasant typing journey.

In summary, both the Akko Botany and PH Studio Yoel linear switches cater to enthusiasts seeking enjoyable sound and feel. They share a bright and clacky sound profile, appealing to those who value auditory feedback in their typing experience. While the Botany's precise tactile feedback remains undefined, the Yoel offers a notably creamy and smooth feel that enhances its overall typing experience. Typists can expect a vibrant auditory environment from either switch, and while the tactile sensations may differ, both promise a delightful experience worthy of exploration.

Conclusion

To summarize, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you seek a light typing experience with a lively and crisp sound, the Akko Botany switch may be your best bet. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for quick, effortless key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. The distinctive clacky sound profile can also add an engaging aural element to your experience, especially if you enjoy the sensation of feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium resistance of 60 grams, consider the PH Studio Yoel switch. Its chewy and creamy typing experience envelops your fingertips, providing a tactile satisfaction that many typists crave. Moreover, the combination of a bright, clacky sound and a polished, silky feel makes the Yoel perfect for those who appreciate a refined typing experience with pronounced auditory feedback. In the end, your choice will rest on whether you prioritize a lighter, livelier switch or a more substantial, buttery experience, so consider how you like to type and what aspects you value most in a switch.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

Learn more