KTT Kang White vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the PH Studio Yoel offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kang White is praised for its poppy linear feel and dazzling typing sound, thanks to its self-lubricating material that provides unparalleled smoothness while typing. On the other hand, the Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky profile that resonates satisfyingly when keys are pressed. While the Kang White is categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Yoel boasts characteristics such as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant. Both switches have their own appeals and advantages, making them suitable choices depending on individual 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
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the PH Studio Yoel switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. However, the Kang White features a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature and sound absorption properties. In contrast, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper end and is more muted compared to nylon. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound characteristics based on their housing materials.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, there are differences in their bottom housing materials that contribute to varying sound profiles. The Kang White's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a more muted and unique sound. This demonstrates how slight variations in housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound of a switch. Additionally, the split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch allows for a blend of qualities that affect both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, as well as the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and PH Studio Yoel switches play a crucial role in determining their sound profiles. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the Kang White's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a more muted and unique sound. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of different qualities that influence the overall sound and feel of each switch. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we see that the Kang White is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Yoel is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force required, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Kang White, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Yoel, as its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a firmer feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2mm. The Kang White offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferable for those who prefer a deeper key press feeling. On the other hand, the Yoel's shorter travel distance may be more appealing to gamers looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Kang White providing a longer travel distance and the Yoel offering a slightly shorter travel distance. Both switches are effective in their own way, and will provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual needs and preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch boasts a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, with a resonant and marbly quality that adds a sharp and crisp resonance to each key press. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Kang White offering a more subdued sound and the Yoel delivering a more pronounced and satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Kang White information did not provide specific descriptors. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This indicates that the Yoel switch prioritizes a luxurious and effortless key press that glides easily under the fingertips, enhancing the overall typing feel for the user.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kang White provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Yoel delivers a clacky and high-pitched resonance. In terms of feel, the Yoel stands out with its creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the more subdued elegance of the Kang White or the pronounced luxury of the Yoel switch. Regardless of the choice, both switches are sure to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with a smooth typing experience attributed to self-lubricating material, the Kang White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and resonant sound, accompanied by a creamy and polished feel, the Yoel switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.