TTC Flame Red vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red stands out for its visually appealing light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those looking to showcase a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a chewy typing experience that envelops fingertips with each press. The Yoel is known for its bright and clacky sound profile, creating a pronounced resonance upon bottoming out keys. While the Flame Red is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Yoel's characteristics include clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant. 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
54g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the PH Studio Yoel switches differ significantly in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in sound profiles is further emphasized by the Flame Red's nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, compared to the Yoel's POM bottom housing that creates a more muted sound.
While both switches utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they each offer distinct acoustic experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Flame Red's combination of nylon top and bottom housings results in a typing experience with a rounder and duller sound profile, emphasizing the softer nature of the nylon material. In comparison, the Yoel's mix of polycarbonate and POM housings creates a unique sound with a sharper and deeper tone, showcasing the contrasting qualities of the two materials.
Despite their differences, both the Flame Red and the Yoel switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon components of the Flame Red or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Yoel, each switch offers a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences and preferences. In this sense, while the housing materials may differ, enthusiasts can expect equally satisfying results from both switches in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Flame Red is lighter in both aspects. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it medium-light. On the other hand, the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Flame Red would be the better choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance, the Yoel would be the ideal option. Both switches provide different weight options for users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Flame Red offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Yoel, which means that it may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Yoel's shorter travel distance could result in a faster response time, which is preferred by gamers looking for quick reactions. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flame Red being on the longer side and the Yoel being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a deeper, more tactile experience or a quicker, more responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 TTC Flame Red switch is known for its neutral profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch is characterized by a clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile, offering a more distinctive and pronounced auditory experience. The sound produced by each switch is also influenced by other factors like keyboard and keycap choices, so users may want to consider these elements when selecting their preferred switch for a tailored sound experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is known for its creamy, polished, and silky feel, offering users a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. Both switches prioritize providing a comfortable and pleasurable typing experience, with the choice between them ultimately depending on personal preference and how users prioritize certain feel characteristics in their switches.
Overall, the TTC Flame Red and PH Studio Yoel switches each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Flame Red switch provides a neutral and polished typing experience with a dazzling light diffuser ideal for backlit keyboards, the Yoel switch delivers a more distinctive and enveloping tactile and auditory experience. Depending on whether users prioritize a more versatile sound profile or a chewy and immersive typing feel, they can make an informed decision on which switch aligns best with their preferences. Ultimately, both switches promise to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers and experienced users alike, with similar results in terms of comfort and quality.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a visually striking keyboard with RGB lighting, smooth typing experience, and a moderate sound profile, the Flame Red might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a chewy typing experience, a bright and clacky sound profile, and a switch that feels creamy and polished, the Yoel may be more to your liking. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
