Gateron Glory Yellow vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the ideal choice for your typing experience. The Gateron Glory Yellow and the PH Studio Yoel are two linear switches that cater to different tastes and needs. The Glory Yellow is celebrated for its smooth keystroke, balanced travel distance, and heavier actuation point, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a sturdy feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a unique, chewy typing sensation that wraps around your fingertips with each press. With its bright, clacky sound profile and resonant bottom-out feedback, the Yoel appeals to users seeking auditory satisfaction alongside tactile comfort. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, they diverge significantly in terms of sound and feel, giving potential users distinct options based on their 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
50g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the PH Studio Yoel switches, the differences in their compositions lead to contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory feedback. In contrast, the Yoel relies on a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiff nature, leading to a more resonant and clear sound profile. Thus, while users of the Glory Yellow may enjoy a subdued auditory experience, those using the Yoel will find a crisper sound, showcasing the stark differences between these materials.
The bottom housings of these switches further emphasize the distinct sound characteristics that each material imparts. The Glory Yellow employs a nylon bottom housing, reinforcing its overall deep and full sound when the switch bottom-outs. The muted qualities of the nylon complement the top housing, ensuring that the sound remains consistent with a more subdued overall profile. Conversely, the Yoel switch utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, which provides a pleasingly unique and deeper sound profile. POM is known for its durability and ability to create a sound that is more muted, but still distinctively rich. While both switches aim for a satisfying auditory experience, the POM material's contribution to the Yoel adds another layer of character that differs from the nylon of the Glory Yellow.
Ultimately, the differences in top and bottom housing materials elucidate how they guide the overall feel and sound when utilizing these switches. In the case of the Glory Yellow, both nylon pieces promote a consistent, deeper sound, making them ideal for users who prefer a more muted response. On the other hand, the combination of polycarbonate and POM in the Yoel yields a more diversified auditory experience, with a higher-pitched sound on actuation and a deeper note upon bottoming out. If a user desires to achieve a more consistent sound profile akin to the Glory Yellow while utilizing the Yoel, adjusting the typing technique or opting for keycaps that harmonize with the POM could lead to a closer experience to the delightful tonal depth found in nylon switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option, which can be advantageous for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Yoel has a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow remains unknown, whereas the Yoel’s bottom out force is recorded at 60 grams, categorized as medium. This indicates that if users prefer more resistance when bottoming out, the Yoel is the better choice. For those seeking a lighter switch for ease of use, the Gateron Glory Yellow would likely be the more suitable option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Glory Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Yoel has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Gateron Glory Yellow the longer of the two switches, providing a more traditional and deeper pressing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Yoel is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation with a less pronounced feel. Ultimately, if you value a more responsive keystroke, the Yoel may be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial depth might lean towards the Glory Yellow for its fuller travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow 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 Gateron Glory Yellow switch is characterized by a smooth and muted profile that provides a more subdued typing experience compared to the PH Studio Yoel switch. The Yoel, on the other hand, stands out with its bright and clacky sound signature, producing sharp, snappy acoustics that resonate satisfyingly upon bottoming out. This clackiness creates a crisp, high-pitched auditory experience that is likely to appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback during typing. While the Glory Yellow's sound tends to blend more seamlessly into a quieter environment, the Yoel's sound profile ensures it be heard without being overwhelmingly intrusive, especially depending on the configuration of the keyboard it is used with.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow offers a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, providing a satisfying experience that is appreciated for its balanced resistance. In contrast, the Yoel switch is noted for its delectably chewy typing experience, enveloping the fingers as each keystroke is executed. This distinction lies in the Glory Yellow's reliable smoothness, whereas the Yoel provides a creamy, polished, and silky sensation that may provide a more luxurious feel when typing. The factory lubricant often associated with the Yoel contributes to a buttery interaction that many typists enjoy, setting it apart from the clean but less dynamic feel of the Glory Yellow.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer unique experiences, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. The Glory Yellow’s more muted sound and balanced resistance make it an excellent choice for those valuing a quiet and straightforward typing experience, while the Yoel’s bright clackiness and rich, creamy feedback create a more immersive and sensory typing journey. If someone is searching for an exciting auditory and tactile experience, they might prefer the Yoel, whereas those seeking simplicity and smoothness may lean towards the Glory Yellow. Both switches promise satisfaction in their respective domains, so the final choice largely depends on personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch largely hinges on your personal preferences regarding feel, sound, and typing force. If you're someone who enjoys an exceptionally smooth and nearly effortless keystroke, the Glory Yellow might be your best bet. It's designed for users who appreciate a more forgiving bottoming out feel, perfect for those long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. However, if you find satisfaction in a balanced typing experience coupled with a distinctive auditory feedback, the Yoel switches may be more appealing to you. With their medium bottom-out force and bright, clacky sound profile, they promise not only a chewy and polished tactile feel but also an engaging audio experience that can elevate your typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you lean towards a cushioned feel with a smooth travel distance, choose the Glory Yellow; if you prefer a noticeable sound and a more tactile connection to your keystrokes, opt for the Yoel.
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