Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of nylon, UMPE, and silicon materials, providing a creamy yet lightweight feel right out of the box. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced. Each switch is categorized differently based on their characteristics, with the Keygeek Raw being textured, mild, neutral, subtle and the Yoel being clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, resonant. 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
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the PH Studio Yoel, we can see that both switches utilize unique blends exclusive to their respective brands. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, while the Yoel boasts a polycarbonate top housing. While both materials offer a clear housing for RGB lighting purposes, the key difference lies in the sound profile they produce. The polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Nylon & UPE blend of the Keygeek Raw may offer a different acoustic experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend is in contrast with the Yoel's POM bottom housing. Each material brings a distinct sound profile to the switch, with the POM housing of the Yoel creating a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, influencing the bottom-out sound and impact. Therefore, the choice between UMPE & Si or POM bottom housing can greatly impact the user's typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the PH Studio Yoel housing materials will depend on the user's preferences for sound profile and typing feel. While both switches offer unique blends exclusive to their brands, the polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel may provide a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Nylon & UPE blend of the Keygeek Raw. Additionally, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel offers a deeper and more muted sound, contrasting with the UMPE & Si blend of the Keygeek Raw. Whether seeking a distinct sound profile or a particular typing experience, users can choose between these switches based on their individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we can see that the actuation force of the Keygeek Raw is None grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, whereas the Yoel has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall under the medium weight category, with the Yoel being slightly heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. This means that the Keygeek Raw might provide a lighter typing experience with a slightly easier keystroke activation, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Yoel offers a bit more resistance, giving a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The Keygeek Raw has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Yoel, which might provide a slightly more satisfying keypress for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral profile, making it a versatile choice suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that some users may find satisfying. The Yoel switch also has a resonant quality that adds to its overall sound profile, creating a more immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, the Keygeek Raw switch would be a great option, while the Yoel switch is ideal for those who enjoy a bright and clacky sound.
Moving on to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is characterized by a slightly textured sensation, offering a unique tactile experience right out of the box. With its mild and subtle characteristics, this switch provides a comfortable typing feel that caters to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch is described as creamy, delivering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. The polished finish of the Yoel switch contributes to its sleek typing feel, reducing friction and enhancing key travel. If you prefer a textured typing experience, the Keygeek Raw switch is a great choice, while the creamy and silky feel of the Yoel switch appeals to those who value smoothness and refinement.
Considering all the available information, both the Keygeek Raw and PH Studio Yoel switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile and a slightly textured feel, the PH Studio Yoel switch excels in delivering a clacky sound and a creamy, polished typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can select either switch to achieve the desired typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying and personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Keygeek Raw if you prefer a slightly textured feel and a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. The unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon in the Keygeek Raw creates a creamy yet lightweight switch perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing. On the other hand, choose the PH Studio Yoel if you desire a creamy, polished feel with a bright and clacky sound profile. The Yoel offers a delectably chewy typing experience with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and high-pitched sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize feel, sound, or specific typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
