Everglide Crystal Violet vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, one must consider their distinct characteristics. The Crystal Violet offers a light operating force of 45g, ideal for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. Its sound profile is mellow and low-pitched, creating a subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. While the Crystal Violet is categorized as 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', and 'Mild', the Yoel is identified as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater 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
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
ABS
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the PH Studio Yoel, one can see a stark difference in their sound profiles. The Crystal Violet features an ABS top housing, which produces a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in sound can significantly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile.
Furthermore, the bottom housing materials of these two switches also play a crucial role in determining their overall sound profiles. The Crystal Violet includes an ABS bottom housing, which results in a relatively low-pitched sound when typing. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the PH Studio Yoel differ in terms of ABS and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as ABS and POM for the bottom housing, they share a common goal of enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches aim to provide users with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether one prefers a lower-pitched sound profile from ABS or a sharper, crisper sound from polycarbonate, each switch offers a distinct typing experience that can be tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Crystal Violet has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, the Crystal Violet does have a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams in comparison to the Yoel's 60 grams. Both switches fall under the medium-light to medium range of forces, providing a comfortable typing experience for users. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Crystal Violet may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Yoel due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Crystal Violet has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial key press and feel. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a slightly shorter travel distance, ideal for individuals looking for a quicker response time, which is often preferred by gamers. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference for key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is known for its low-pitched profile, providing a mellow and soothing auditory experience, which is enhanced by the special use of ABS material in the switch housings. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a bright and clacky sound profile, resonating in a satisfying and pronounced manner when keys reach their bottom-out point. The difference in sound can cater to different preferences, with the Crystal Violet appealing to those who enjoy a more subtle and bass-heavy tone, while the Yoel is suitable for individuals who appreciate a crisper and more percussive sound.
Concerning feel, both the Crystal Violet and Yoel switches are described as offering a creamy typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery sensations when typing. This indicates that both switches provide a luxurious feel with reduced friction and enhanced overall smoothness in key travel. Additionally, the Crystal Violet is noted for its stepped tactile feedback, providing a two-stage keystroke experience with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations, while the Yoel is described as polished, offering a refined finish for sleek typing experiences. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant and comfortable typing feel that prioritizes smoothness and ease of use.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch present contrasting sound profiles and similar creamy typing experiences, making them suitable choices for individuals with different preferences. The Crystal Violet excels in delivering a relaxing and bass-heavy sound, coupled with a stepped tactile feel for a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Yoel offers a bright and clacky sound with a polished finish, providing a more pronounced and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one prefers a soothing sound or a crisper auditory feedback, but both options promise a luxurious and smooth typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the key differences in their characteristics. If you prefer a light operating force and a gentle, stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow, low-pitched sound profile, the Crystal Violet may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a chewy linear typing experience with a bright, clacky sound profile and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Yoel switch could be more fitting for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and sound preference, so make sure to test out both switches before making a final choice.
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