KTT Cream Yellow vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cream Yellow is renowned for its bouncy and clacky typing experience, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. In contrast, the Yoel switch by PH Studio offers a chewy and bright typing sensation with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Yoel is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
While both the KTT Cream Yellow and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Yoel's POM bottom housing, which creates a more muted and deeper sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials means that the Cream Yellow will offer a more rounded sound profile, while the Yoel will provide a unique and deep sound.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of both the Cream Yellow and the Yoel creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Despite this similarity in top housing material, the differences in their bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles for each switch.
The split between the bottom and top housing materials of the Cream Yellow and the Yoel means that the qualities of each material will be felt differently when using the switches. The bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material will influence the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in contributing to the overall sound profile and feel of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium range of force. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke and the amount of force needed to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice, as it has slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a slightly heavier typing feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may gravitate towards these switches for their quick and precise key presses. However, the Cream Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Yoel. This slight difference may result in a slightly more pronounced key press feel for the Cream Yellow, while the Yoel may feel slightly more abrupt in comparison. Ultimately, your preference for travel distance will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its distinctive clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provide a crisp and bright percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch delivers a bright and clacky profile with a resonant and satisfying sound when keys reach their bottom-out point. Both switches offer a clacky typing experience, but the Cream Yellow may have a slightly sharper sound compared to the Yoel's more resonant and immersive auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is praised for its bouncy typing sensation, which provides a spring-like feedback and lively feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience, with a silky smooth sensation that enhances the overall smoothness of typing. Both switches provide a unique feel to the user; while the Cream Yellow focuses on bounciness, the Yoel emphasizes a buttery and effortless keystroke experience.
Overall, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the sharper and bouncier typing experience of the Cream Yellow or the smoother and more immersive feel of the Yoel. Both switches bring their own unique characteristics to the table, ensuring that users will have a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy and polished typing experience with a bright and clacky sound, the Yoel switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
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