Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find yourself faced with two excellent options in the linear switch category. The Ink Black V2 is renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a low-pitched and bassy typing experience that is both mild and polished. On the other hand, the Yoel by PH Studio provides a chewy and satisfying typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is resonant and creamy. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. 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
60g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 utilizes its proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials gives each switch a unique sound characteristic, with the Ink Black V2 offering a thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Yoel provides a clear and resonant sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Yoel differ once again. The POM bottom housing of the Yoel produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile, adding a unique quality to the overall typing experience. In comparison, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 contributes to the switch's clacky sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of the top housing material. These contrasting bottom housing materials further differentiate the sound profiles of the two switches and cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Yoel are different, they both strive to provide a satisfying typing experience through the unique sound profiles they create. The INK blend and polycarbonate top housings each offer their own distinct qualities, from the clacky sound of the Ink Black V2 to the clear and resonant sound of the Yoel. Similarly, the POM and INK blend bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and aim to cater to diverse preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has an actuation force of 53 grams. When it comes to the bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 requires 70 grams, while the Yoel only needs 60 grams. Overall, the Ink Black V2 is considered medium-heavy in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel switch is medium in both categories, offering a lighter touch for those who prefer it. The lighter actuation force of the Yoel may appeal to those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, while the heavier forces of the Ink Black V2 are suited for individuals seeking a more robust typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Ink Black V2 provides a deeper and more pronounced key press feel, which some users may find more satisfying and comfortable for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Yoel switch offers a shorter travel distance, ideal for those seeking a quicker response time and a more agile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their respective travel distances, so users can expect different results based on which option they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched and bassy profile, resulting in a mellow and rich clack during typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, with a pronounced resonance upon bottoming out. If you prefer a deeper and more bass-heavy sound, the Ink Black V2 would be the way to go, while the Yoel switch provides a brighter and crisper auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that it offers a gentle and refined feel, with smooth key travel due to potential factory lubing. In comparison, the Yoel switch is known for its creamy and polished sensation, offering a buttery and silky typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and pleasant feel while typing, with the Ink Black V2 leaning towards a more refined touch and the Yoel offering a creamier sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and PH Studio Yoel switches each have their unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you're looking for a switch with a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, coupled with a mild and polished typing feel, the Ink Black V2 would be a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a brighter and clacky sound along with a creamy and silky typing experience, the PH Studio Yoel switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, offering different qualities to cater to a variety of preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a smooth downstroke, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, clacky sound profile with a chewy typing experience, the Yoel may be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a smooth, polished typing feel or a creamy, silky sensation when pressing the keys. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy the satisfying tactile experience it brings.
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