KTT Lightning vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preferences. The Lightning is known for its "speed" attribute, making it ideal for gaming where quick responses are crucial. Its slick type feel and clacky sound profile provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel switch by BSUN offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates upon bottoming out. Both switches are categorized as having a polished feel, but the Yoel offers a creamy and silky touch compared to the Lightning's chirpy and high-pitched characteristics. 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
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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
Both the KTT Lightning and the PH Studio Yoel feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially beneficial for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a more vibrant display. In contrast, while the Lightning uses a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing which produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housing, the Lightning and Yoel differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Lightning's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Yoel's POM bottom housing contributes to a more muted sound profile that still maintains a pleasing depth. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, the impact of each material is felt in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities emphasizes the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience, showcasing how different combinations can result in varying sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Lightning switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the Yoel switch would be better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.2mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, particularly gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, as both are shorter than the more traditional 4.0mm distance. Those who prefer a shallower key press may gravitate towards the Lightning switch, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their key press may opt for the Yoel switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the degree of key travel that feels most comfortable and natural.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch both fall under the clacky and high-pitched categories. The Lightning offers a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, while the Yoel delivers a bright and clacky profile with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point. Therefore, if you prefer a crisp and percussive sound profile, either switch would satisfy your auditory preferences.
Moving on to feel, the Lightning switch provides a subtle typing experience with a slick feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy a light typing sensation. On the other hand, the Yoel switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with a smooth and buttery feel. If you appreciate a refined finish and reduced friction during key travel, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience.
In conclusion, while the Lightning and Yoel switches have distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both cater to users who prioritize speed and precision in their typing. Whether you prefer the slick and clacky profile of the Lightning or the chewy and resonant feel of the Yoel, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that you can achieve similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your typing style and preference. If you value speed and responsiveness in your keystrokes, the Lightning switch with its lighter bottom out force might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a chewy and satisfying typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Yoel switch could be more suited to your needs. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, both switches offer these qualities, but the Lightning switch may be slightly more pronounced in its sound. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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