HMX KD200 vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the distinct characteristics of different options. The HMX KD200, known for its clacky sound profile, stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offering a linear typing experience that many users find appealing for its smooth action. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, crafted by BSUN, delivers a delectably chewy typing sensation that envelops the fingertips with each press. Not only does the Yoel provide a smooth linear feel, but its bright and clacky sound, coupled with pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point, creates a truly engaging auditory experience. While both switches cater to those who prefer linear actuation, their notable differences in sound and tactile feedback could influence your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and PH Studio Yoel switches showcase different housing materials that prominently influence their sound profiles and overall tactile experience. The KD200 employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's relatively softer composition allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory signature. This can create a richer typing experience for users who prefer a substantial feel and sound when typing. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing and POM for its bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, providing a clear and resonant acoustic signature. The POM bottom housing offers its own unique deeper sound, differing from the KD200's nylon construction, thus allowing for a nuanced tonal experience.
While the materials differ, both switches excel in their respective strengths to provide optimal user experiences. The KD200 harnesses nylon's softness for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound profile that emphasizes a muted feel throughout. This uniformity can give the typist a cohesive experience when typing, as the sound quality remains consistent regardless of which part of the switch’s travel is being pressed. In contrast, the Yoel features a material split between its top and bottom housings; while the polycarbonate provides clarity during release, the POM bottom housing softens the thud of key presses, creating an overall sound that is unique yet aesthetically pleasing. This strategic difference allows the Yoel to provide a varied acoustic experience, where the interaction between the different materials adds complexity to the switch’s responsiveness.
Ultimately, despite their differences in materials, both the HMX KD200 and PH Studio Yoel switches can achieve desirable sound profiles that cater to diverse preferences in tactile feedback. Users who appreciate a rounded typing experience may lean towards the KD200, while those who favor a crisper sound and a layered auditory experience may prefer the Yoel. It’s also worth noting that both switches showcase how the characteristics of their housing materials impact the user's experience - from the bottom-out sound and feel to the auditory feedback upon release. Thus, individuals can find satisfaction in either switch, depending on whether they prioritize a fuller, more muted sound with the KD200 or prefer the distinct clarity and resonance offered by the Yoel’s polycarbonate and POM configuration.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Yoel switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing, which can enhance tactile feedback and give a sense of durability. Overall, users looking for a lighter switch that facilitates long hours of use might gravitate towards the KD200, while those who favor a firmer resistance should opt for the Yoel switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we observe that the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Yoel features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the KD200 provides a more traditional feel, appealing to those who prefer a greater depth and a more pronounced keystroke, while the Yoel caters to users who favor quicker response times with its shorter actuation distance. If you lean towards a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Yoel switch may be the better choice. Conversely, if you cherish a deeper and more tactile experience in your key presses, the KD200 would likely suit your preferences better. Thus, the KD200 is the longer option, and the Yoel is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 HMX KD200 linear switch is recognized for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, contributing a notably bright and clacky auditory profile. This sound is characterized by a sharp and snappy quality, resulting in a distinct and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch also boasts a similarly clacky sound signature, defined by its bright and high-pitched resonance when keys reach their bottom-out point. Both switches thus deliver a pronounced auditory feedback that is crisp and immersive, making them suitable choices for users seeking an engaging acoustic experience while typing.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 linear switch is less clearly defined. In contrast, the Yoel is known for providing a delectably chewy typing experience, described with attributes such as creamy, polished, and silky, which together create a smooth, buttery, and effortless keystroke. The factory lubrication and specific materials used in the Yoel contribute to its smoothness and a minimally resistant typing experience, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. Without specific feel-related details for the KD200, it is challenging to make a direct comparison, but the user might expect a different level of tactile satisfaction compared to the Yoel's refined qualities.
In conclusion, while both the HMX KD200 and PH Studio Yoel linear switches share a clacky sound profile that caters to enthusiasts of vibrant auditory feedback, the tactile experience of the Yoel stands out with its creamy and polished attributes. Without further information on the feel of the KD200, it is difficult to determine how it matches up against the Yoel. For those who lean towards engaging sound and potentially smooth typing experiences, both switches present excellent options in their own right, though users may need to prioritize the tactile qualities of the Yoel for a more refined keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX KD200 linear switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, think about your typing preferences and the type of experience you desire. If you favor a lighter actuation with a bottom-out force of 50 grams for faster keystrokes and a more playful typing experience, the KD200 is an excellent choice. Its clackiness adds an engaging auditory element without overwhelming volume, making it ideal for those who appreciate a lively sound while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced and substantial feel with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Yoel switch offers a delectably chewy, creamy typing experience that's especially rewarding for extended use. Its bright, clacky sound profile not only delivers excitement but also provides a satisfying resonance upon bottoming out, making it perfect for users who enjoy a crisp auditory feedback as they type. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize lightweight responsiveness and subtle sounds or a more textured and resonant feel with a bit more weight behind each keystroke.
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