KTT Darling vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and the PH Studio Yoel are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Darling is known for its chewy and substantial feel, providing a bouncy and responsive typing sensation accompanied by a high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is characterized by a satisfying resonance. While both switches share some similarities in their high-pitched and resonant sound profiles, they also have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Darling and the Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Yoel's POM bottom housing provides a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
While the top housings of both the Darling and the Yoel are made of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differ with the Darling using nylon and the Yoel using POM. This results in a split of the qualities each housing material brings to the switch - the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. The use of nylon in the Darling's bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, offering a different typing experience compared to the Yoel's POM bottom housing, which produces a deeper and more subdued sound profile.
Overall, both the Darling and the Yoel utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Darling's nylon bottom housing gives a deeper and fuller sound, offering a unique typing experience, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing provides a pleasing and muted sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches based on the bottom housing material that best complements their desired sound profile.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch's 53 grams. This means that the Darling will require less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling has a slightly heavier force of 53 grams compared to the Yoel's 60 grams. Both switches fall under the medium-light to medium category in terms of overall force required. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Darling, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might lean towards the Yoel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Darling. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance might be favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 Darling linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience with a pronounced clackiness upon bottoming out, creating a tactile and engaging feedback for users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch presents a bright and clacky sound profile, also with a resonant quality when keys reach their bottom-out point, providing a satisfying auditory experience during typing sessions. Both switches deliver a unique and immersive sound profile, with the Darling leaning towards a sharper and higher-pitched tone, while the Yoel offers a bright and clacky resonance. Though different in sound characteristics, users can expect a satisfying auditory experience with either switch, depending on their personal preference.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a springy and responsive keystroke that provides users with a lively typing sensation, akin to sinking fingers into something satisfyingly chewy. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provides a creamy and polished typing experience, creating a smooth and buttery sensation as fingers glide effortlessly over the keys. The Yoel switch also offers a silky feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke and minimizing resistance for a comfortable typing experience. While the Darling excels in providing a bouncy and spring-like feedback, the Yoel focuses on delivering a silky and polished touch during typing sessions, catering to users who prefer a smoother and more refined key feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a bouncy typing experience, while the Yoel presents a bright and clacky sound profile with a creamy and polished feel. Both switches deliver unique tactile and auditory feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound sharpness, resonance, bounciness, creaminess, or smoothness. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to their individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a high-pitched, resonant sound profile with a bouncy typing sensation, the KTT Darling may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and marbly sound profile with a creamy and polished typing experience, the PH Studio Yoel could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels and sounds best to you while typing, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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