Durock Koala vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular switches that are often compared are the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the PH Studio Yoel, a linear switch. The Koalas are a perfect middle ground for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, yet not overly punchy, providing just the right amount of feedback without being too loud. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch by PH Studio offers a smooth and creamy typing experience that envelops your fingertips with every press, accompanied by a bright and clacky sound profile that is satisfying and pronounced. Each switch has its own set of attributes and qualities that make them stand out. 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
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches share this characteristic, they differ in their bottom housings. The Koala utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, offering a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards a deeper and more muted profile.
In terms of sound production, the Durock Koala's use of both polycarbonate and nylon housings splits the qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. Typing on the Koala will showcase the deeper and fuller sound profile from the nylon bottom housing, while the polycarbonate top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. Conversely, the PH Studio Yoel's combination of polycarbonate and POM housings offers a distinctive sound profile that is deeper and more muted overall. The POM bottom housing particularly contributes to this unique sound, providing a different tone compared to the Koala's nylon bottom housing.
While the Durock Koala and the PH Studio Yoel both benefit from the advantages of polycarbonate top housings, their different bottom housing materials result in distinct sound experiences. The Koala's use of nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing produces a unique and more muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics and typing feel. However, with their shared polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profiles when using either the Koala or the Yoel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are clear differences in weight. The Durock Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the PH Studio Yoel has a lower actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. The Koala does not have a specified actuation force, so it is unknown how it compares in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the PH Studio Yoel, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Durock Koala due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Yoel switch the shorter one of the two. In terms of typing or gaming experience, the Durock Koala switch will provide a slightly deeper keypress feel compared to the Yoel switch. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Koala being on the longer end and the Yoel being on the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Durock Koala tactile switch is characterized by low-pitched tones, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory experience with a satisfying resonance at the bottom-out point. Depending on personal preference, the Koala's low-pitched sound may be more suitable for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience, while the Yoel's clacky profile appeals to individuals who appreciate a more pronounced and bright sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala switch is known for its polished and accented tactile feedback, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with a pronounced bump that is not overwhelming. Additionally, its stepped tactility provides a unique feel with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Conversely, the PH Studio Yoel switch presents a creamy and silky typing experience, boasting a buttery smoothness that allows fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The polished finish of the Yoel switch further enhances the overall typing feel, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, while both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, the decision between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference. If you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound and a polished, accented tactile feel, the Koala may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound and a creamy, silky typing experience, the Yoel switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a variety of boards with different keycaps will provide the best insight into which one aligns most closely with your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a pronounced bump and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Koala may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Yoel could be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Koala is a good option, whereas if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Yoel may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound.
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