TTC Flaming Pink vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly enhance your typing and gaming experience, and two popular options are the TTC Flaming Pink and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches. The TTC Flaming Pink switch stands out for its smooth responsiveness and a pleasing bottom-out sound, striking a perfect balance between audible feedback and a refined typing sensation, making it an excellent choice for both gamers and casual users alike. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch offers a unique, chewy typing experience that envelops your fingertips with each keystroke, characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile that delivers a pronounced resonance when the keys hit bottom. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they each have distinct auditory and tactile elements that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the PH Studio Yoel exhibit both similarities and differences that influence their overall sound profiles. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in both cases contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, making these switches particularly effective for RGB lighting due to their translucent quality. This shared aspect ensures a similar high-end sound response when typing or gaming, giving users a comparable experience in terms of auditory feedback and a vibrant visual appeal when backlit.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between the two switches. The Flaming Pink utilizes nylon, a material celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer plastic nature allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a distinctively rounder acoustic quality. Conversely, the Yoel employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its bottom housing, which generates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. This difference in bottom housing materials not only affects the overall sound signature of each switch but also the tactile feel during typing, with the nylon housing producing a softer bottom-out experience compared to the firmer impact of POM.
When considering the interaction of the top and bottom housings, it's essential to note how their respective materials affect the overall switch performance. Given that both the Flaming Pink and the Yoel share the same polycarbonate top housing, users can expect similar auditory outcomes when releasing the key, emphasizing the crisper sound profile. However, the unique sound characteristics produced by the nylon and POM bottom housings will lead to distinct typing experiences. Therefore, while the upper housing provides a uniform auditory clarity, the lower housing impacts the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, creating a nuanced difference in user experience that reflects the combination of materials used in each switch.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Flaming Pink has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which caters to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience and may benefit from prolonged use without fatigue. In contrast, the Yoel features a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial feel for those who enjoy a stronger push when typing or gaming. As a result, individuals seeking a lighter switch would opt for the Flaming Pink, while those desiring a heavier key press would lean towards the Yoel. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, emphasizing the personal preferences that dictate the choice of keyboard switches.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Pink linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This measurement indicates that when pressing down on a key, the Flaming Pink travels further compared to the Yoel. If you're seeking quicker response times typically favored by gamers, the Yoel could be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience, the Flaming Pink's greater travel provides a deeper sensation that some may find more enjoyable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 Flaming Pink switch offers a bright yet moderately loud sound profile that strikes a balance ideal for both gaming and typing. Its satisfying bottom-out sound provides a comforting auditory feedback without being overwhelmingly piercing. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is characterized by a clacky, high-pitched sound profile that adds a pronounced resonance upon bottoming out. This sharp and lively sound can be quite immersive, offering a crisp auditory experience that tends to engage the user more dynamically than the Flaming Pink.
In terms of feel, the Flaming Pink switch excels in delivering a smooth and responsive typing experience, though specific descriptors like "creamy" or "silky" were not directly attributed to it. The focus seems to be on providing a well-rounded responsiveness suitable for continuous use. Conversely, the Yoel switch is described with terms such as "creamy," "polished," and "silky," indicating it offers an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance. The combination of these qualities results in a typing experience that feels luxurious and effortless, making it particularly satisfying for long typing sessions.
In summary, while both switches provide enjoyable experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences. The TTC Flaming Pink is suitable for those who appreciate a balanced sound without excessive volume, making it versatile for various tasks. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel offers a brighter, clackier auditory profile along with an exceptionally smooth typing feel, ideal for users who prioritize both sound and tactile refinement. Depending on individual preferences regarding sound intensity and typing sensation, either switch can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches largely hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter touch and are looking for a switch that emphasizes a smooth and responsive feel, along with a satisfying yet subtle sound profile, the Flaming Pink would be an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for both gaming and everyday typing, allowing for repeated keystrokes without fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more significant resistance and prefer a distinct auditory feedback combined with a chewy tactile experience, the Yoel is worth considering. With a 60-gram bottom-out force and its bright, clacky sound profile, it provides a more pronounced engagement with each keystroke. The Yoel also delivers a creamy and polished feel, ideal for those who appreciate a luxurious typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, and your ideal choice will depend on whether you prioritize a light touch and subdued sound or a richer auditory experience with a firmer feel.
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