Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch with the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Crystal Pro switches are known for their fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced. While the Crystal Pro switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Yoel switch is classified as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Each switch offers unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help in making the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. The similarities in the top housing material suggest that users can expect comparable sound qualities and performance from both switches.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the trend of creating a sharp and clear sound profile. Conversely, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, with the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizing the bottom-out sound and feel while the Yoel offers a unique sound experience.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches highlights how each material contributes to different aspects of the user experience. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This nuanced approach to housing materials allows for a more tailored sound profile and tactile feedback, catering to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, both have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. However, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, compared to the Yoel's actuation force of 53 grams. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro will require less force to trigger a keystroke, which could be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. In terms of weight, the V3 Crystal Pro would be better suited for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions due to its lighter actuation force, while the Yoel would be ideal for users seeking a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key travel. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for users who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, catering to different user preferences. In this case, choosing between the two would depend on whether you value a deeper keypress or a quicker response time. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound that adds a unique squeak to each key press, setting it apart from other switches. In comparison, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Crystal Pro being bright and chirpy, while the Yoel leans towards a bright and clacky profile, with a high-pitched and resonant sound. Ultimately, your choice of keyboard and keycaps will also play a role in shaping the overall sound that you hear.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, refined finish that results in sleek key travel. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch delivers a creamy and polished typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. Both switches prioritize smoothness and reduced friction, with the Crystal Pro being bouncy and polished and the Yoel offering a creamy and silky feel. Whether you prefer a lively bounce or a creamy glide, both switches promise a satisfying tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Pro excels in providing a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, while the Yoel stands out with its clacky sound and creamy feel. Depending on whether you prefer a bright and chirpy sound or a sharp and clacky profile, as well as a bouncy or creamy typing experience, you can choose between these two switches to customize your mechanical keyboard to suit your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth and refined typing experiences, with a focus on delivering unique sound and tactile feedback to enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the qualities that each switch offers. If you are looking for a switch with a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is satisfying and pronounced, the Yoel switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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