HMX Cheese vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese and PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, one can see a distinct difference in their characteristics. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky profile. While the Cheese switch is lighter than 90% of all switches, the Yoel switch is characterized by a resonance that is both satisfying and pronounced. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. 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
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and PH Studio Yoel switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their differences in material composition. The Cheese's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate material results in a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both materials excel in providing a unique typing experience, with the Cheese offering a deeper sound profile and the Yoel delivering a sharper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches offer differing sound profiles as well. The Cheese's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a uniquely muted sound. The POM material brings a deeper sound profile that complements the sharper tone provided by the polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel switch. This contrast in sound profiles between the bottom housings adds to the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact within each switch, it becomes apparent that the qualities of each material are split between the two components. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Cheese and Yoel switches differ in their housing materials, both offer a unique and satisfying typing experience that caters to individual preferences for sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is clear that the Cheese switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Cheese switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Yoel switch is heavier with an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Cheese switch will provide a more effortless typing experience with a lighter touch, perfect for those who prefer a softer feel. On the other hand, the Yoel switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches provide unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Cheese switch being lighter and the Yoel switch being heavier.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Yoel, being the shorter of the two, may provide a slightly quicker keystroke for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Cheese, with its slightly longer travel distance, might offer a more satisfying tactile experience for users who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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 HMX Cheese switch is celebrated for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience that is crisp and bright. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a bright and clacky sound signature with a pronounced resonance upon bottoming-out, creating a satisfying auditory feedback for users. Both switches deliver distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Cheese leaning towards a lighter and snappier sound, while the Yoel presents a more resonant and chewy profile. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the sharpness of the Cheese or the pronounced resonance of the Yoel.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless keypress that is bound to delight users. While specific descriptors for the feel of the Cheese switch are not provided, its reputation for delivering a smooth typing experience is highlighted. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch is described as providing a creamy and silky typing sensation, characterized by a smooth and buttery keypress that glides effortlessly under the fingertips. With a focus on delivering a polished and refined typing experience, the Yoel switch stands out for its smooth key travel and reduced friction, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cheese excels in providing a satisfyingly clacky sound with unmatched smoothness in typing, while the Yoel delivers a bright and resonant sound alongside a creamy and silky typing feel. Depending on whether a user prefers a lighter and sharper sound profile or a more resonant and chewy auditory feedback, they can choose between the Cheese and the Yoel switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and a premium typing experience that are sure to impress newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a smooth, crispy typing feel with a satisfying poppy sound, the HMX Cheese switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a chewy, resonant typing experience with a bright and clacky sound, the PH Studio Yoel switch would be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a lighter touch or a more substantial feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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