Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 switches are an excellent choice for those on a budget who appreciate a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. 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
50g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
20mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and PH Studio Yoel switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches are made from polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboards.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yoel switch uses a POM bottom housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for these switches affects the typing experience in different ways. While both switches have polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound profile, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing offers a more muted sound. These variations in housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams, making the Yoel slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when fully pressed. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the amount of pressure needed to register a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the force required to fully press the key. Overall, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding the desired weight for typing or gaming purposes. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro, being lighter in actuation force, may be preferable for those looking for a smoother typing experience over extended periods, while the Yoel, with a slightly heavier actuation force, may appeal to those seeking a more substantial push feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. While both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro does have a slightly longer distance to travel compared to the Yoel. For those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly quicker response time and a shorter key press, the Yoel may be more suitable. In general, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that is suitable for a variety of preferences, ensuring that you will get a similar typing experience with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch produces a bright and clacky sound with a noticeable resonance at the bottom-out point, offering a satisfying and pronounced typing experience. Both switches excel in delivering a pleasing sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound aesthetics.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is commended for its easy-to-press nature and feathery sensation, offering minimal resistance and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, its smooth and polished finish adds to the overall typing comfort. Conversely, the PH Studio Yoel switch is described as creamy and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding across the keys effortlessly. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing feel, with the Cream Yellow Pro focusing on light actuation and low impact, while the Yoel emphasizes smoothness and reduced resistance for a silky typing sensation.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer excellent sound profiles and comfortable typing experiences, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow Pro leans towards a poppy and clacky sound with easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Yoel excels in delivering a bright and resonant sound with a creamy and polished typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch will provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy quality performance and comfort while using their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider your preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy a poppy, clacky sound and a medium bottom-out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky sound profile with a chewy typing experience and a medium bottom-out force, the Yoel switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you value most before making your decision.