TTC Gold Red Pro vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is renowned for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a chewier typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is satisfying and pronounced. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability for various settings, the Yoel provides a unique tactile and auditory experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches adds a level of clarity and resonance to the sound, making it ideal for those looking for a more pronounced typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. However, the Gold Red Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer properties. On the other hand, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, resulting in a more muted and unique sound experience.
While both switches share the benefits of having polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housings provide distinct sound profiles when typing. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a more rounded and dull sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. These differences in bottom housing materials will affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the bottom housing, and the sound upon key release being more impacted by the top housing. It's important to consider how these different housing materials will affect the sound and feel of typing on each switch.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Gold Red Pro and PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, their choice of bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a more muted and unique sound experience. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile can help users choose the switch that best matches their preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Yoel is heavier with an actuation force of 53 grams. The bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is unknown, while the Yoel has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Gold Red Pro provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Yoel, which offers a more substantial and firmer feel when typing. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gold Red Pro for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the Yoel for a more robust typing experience. In terms of actuation force, both switches provide similar results with the same trigger weight needed to activate a keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we can see that the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Yoel has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. The Gold Red Pro offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking fast and precise inputs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a low-pitched and thocky experience, characterized by a neutral profile that suits various preferences and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a high-pitched, clacky sound with a resonant and marbly quality that emphasizes sharpness and brightness. If you prefer a deep and satisfying sound, the Gold Red Pro is the way to go, while the Yoel excels in delivering a crisp and resonant auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Red Pro switch offers a polished and silky typing sensation, providing a mild and subtle resistance that appeals to a wide range of users. With a focus on smoothness and refined key travel, this switch ensures a comfortable and gentle typing experience suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Yoel switch also boasts a creamy and polished feel, offering buttery keystrokes that glide effortlessly across the keys. With a focus on reduced friction and enhanced smoothness, the Yoel switch delivers a luxurious typing experience that is bound to delight users seeking a silky sensation.
In conclusion, while both switches offer unique sound and feel qualities, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch stands out for its neutral and thocky sound profile paired with a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch shines with its bright and clacky sound accompanied by a creamy and buttery feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch, ensuring a satisfying and customized typing experience tailored to your liking.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider your preferences and needs. If you value a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a bright and clacky typing experience with a pronounced sound profile, the Yoel could be the better option. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of None grams or if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Gold Red Pro or the Yoel, respectively, would be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel.