Bsun Cliff vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, and two popular options are the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. The Cliff is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy tactile feedback and the satisfying “bump” of each keystroke without the concern of an overly loud click. In contrast, the Yoel linear switch offers a delectably smooth typing experience characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile, providing a pleasurable, almost chewy sensation with every press. This switch is ideal for those who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke and a satisfying resonance upon bottoming out. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on whether you prioritize feedback and sound or seamless, fluid motion. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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
When evaluating the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the PH Studio Yoel, one notable similarity stands out in their top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for this component, and as a result, feature a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant output, ensuring a vibrant auditory experience for users. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for users who appreciate RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual effect by allowing light to pass through beautifully. This commonality in top housing material leads to comparable auditory characteristics, showcasing the effectiveness of polycarbonate in achieving a striking sound profile in both switches.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two models exhibit significant differences. The Cliff employs nylon, a traditional choice known for its sound-absorbing properties that result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon dampens vibrations more effectively than harder plastics, creating a sound that is duller yet richer. Conversely, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which boasts a unique sound profile characterized as deep and relatively muted. While both housing materials provide a rounded acoustic experience, the nylon of the Cliff leans towards a more robust sound, while the POM in the Yoel offers a slight attenuation, leading to a softer auditory sensation.
When considering how the varying materials influence the overall performance of each switch, it becomes clear that the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and different materials in the bottom housing yields distinct results. The qualities of the polycarbonate top from both models influence the sound upon key release, ensuring clarity and resonance. Meanwhile, the differing bottom materials—nylon in the Cliff and POM in the Yoel—impact the key's feel and bottom-out sound. This differentiation allows each switch to deliver a unique tactile and auditory experience, painting a complex picture that reflects the interplay between both the top and bottom housings in these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff switch boasts a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions and gaming due to its lower resistance. In contrast, the Yoel switch features a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience favored by users who appreciate a firmer push feel. Consequently, the Cliff is better suited for those who prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience, while the Yoel is designed for those who enjoy a stronger feedback from their keyboard. The differences in these forces suggest that typists and gamers will have varied experiences based on their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring that both switches cater to different user needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, the Cliff offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Cliff a better choice for individuals who prefer a more pronounced, depth-oriented typing experience, as it provides greater feedback when pressed. In contrast, the Yoel's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those who favor quick response times, avoiding the feeling of abruptness that can accompany even shallower switches. While both switches fall within a modern trend towards shorter travel distances, the Cliff stands out with its greater depth, making it the longer option compared to the Yoel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch is recognized for its medium tactility accompanied by a crisp sound signature, which contributes to a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile. This produces a sharp and percussive audio experience, particularly pronounced at the bottom-out point, where the resonance creates a more immersive effect. While both switches offer distinct auditory qualities, the Cliff leans towards a clean, sharp sound, while the Yoel invites a more vibrant and pronounced auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Cliff delivers a quality that is not explicitly defined in the information provided, leaving its tactile characteristics open to interpretation. However, the Yoel linear switch excels in providing a delectably chewy typing experience that can be described as creamy, polished, and silky. This luxurious typing sensation allows the fingertips to glide effortlessly over the keys, thanks to reduced friction and a refined finish. While the Cliff’s tactile qualities may not be as clearly articulated, the Yoel's notable smoothness sets a high standard for typing feel.
In summary, both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer unique auditory and tactile experiences suited to different typing preferences. While the Cliff’s crisp sound may appeal to those who favor a snappier auditory response, the Yoel's bright and resonant profile appeals to users who enjoy a more engaging soundscape. Additionally, the Yoel's tailored feel provides an exceptionally smooth and pleasurable typing experience, contrasting with the somewhat ambiguous characteristics of the Cliff. Newcomers can expect varied yet enriching typing experiences from both switches, appealing to personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light feel with a medium tactile bump and a crisp, resonant sound, the Cliff is an excellent option. Its lower actuation force makes it suitable for long typing sessions or if you value a responsive typing experience with noticeable feedback. Conversely, if you prefer a richer auditory experience and a more solid typing sensation with a medium actuation force, the Yoel might be your ideal choice. Its smooth and creamy feel, combined with a clacky and bright sound signature, can enhance your overall typing enjoyment, particularly for those who favor a more leisurely pace or engage in activities like gaming. Ultimately, consider what sensory attributes matter most to you—be it sound, feel, or actuation force—when selecting the switch that will best suit your keyboard experience.
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