Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3, known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, provides a silky and seamless typing experience, along with a light diffuser that enhances RGB illumination. On the other hand, the Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, offers a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky profile that adds a satisfying resonance when keys are pressed. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that make them appealing choices for different users. 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
48g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Yoel has a POM bottom housing. The POM bottom housing of the Yoel creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Lightning Silver V3 can provide a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. This consistency can result in a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a sharper and crisper sound. Alternatively, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a POM bottom housing in the Yoel creates a unique sound profile where the top and bottom sounds may differ. The POM bottom housing is responsible for the deeper and more muted sound when the switch is pressed.
While both switches share similar properties in their top housing material, the difference in their bottom housing materials can lead to distinct typing experiences. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 may provide a more pronounced sound upon bottoming out, while the POM bottom housing of the Yoel can contribute to a softer and quieter typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Lightning Silver V3 has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Lightning Silver V3, while the Yoel may provide a slightly more substantial push feel. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, offering a balanced typing experience for users who prefer a moderate level of resistance. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or slightly heavier actuation force is preferred by the user.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 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 have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. The Lightning Silver V3 is slightly longer than the Yoel, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when typing or gaming. However, the difference of 0.2 mm is minimal and may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more tactile feel, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the better option. If you prefer a more responsive and quicker keystroke, the Yoel with its slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp and bright. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch also offers a clacky sound with a bright and pronounced resonance when keys bottom out. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, although the Lightning Silver V3 leans towards a higher-pitched tone compared to the Yoel which has a marbly and resonant sound quality.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a silky typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is described as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and buttery sensation akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. Both switches excel in providing a refined and polished typing experience, with the Lightning Silver V3 focusing more on silkiness while the Yoel offers a creamier feel.
Overall, both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lightning Silver V3 leans towards a lighter and higher-pitched sound with a silky typing feel, the Yoel provides a chewier sound profile with a creamy and polished typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can enhance your typing experience, providing a satisfying and enjoyable time at your keyboard. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches, consider your preferences in both sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky sound with a creamy or polished typing feel, the Yoel switch could be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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