Gateron Luciola vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Luciola, with its unique glowing feature, and the PH Studio Yoel both offer their own distinct characteristics. The Luciola provides a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel accompanied by a hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out keys. While the Luciola is described as 'Snappy', 'Chirpy', and 'Buttery', the Yoel is labeled as 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own appeal and depending on your preferences, you may be drawn to either one. 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
55g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the PH Studio Yoel, one major difference is found in the top housing. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel may be preferred for those seeking a clearer and more resonant sound with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is their bottom housing materials. The Gateron Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, highlighting a thin and higher-pitched sound profile similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel incorporates a POM bottom housing which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics between the switches' bottom housings provides users with options to choose based on their preference for sound depth and clarity when typing.
Overall, while the Gateron Luciola and PH Studio Yoel switches may differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles and distinct tactile experiences. The split between the top and bottom housing impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Whether seeking a clacky and high-pitched sound from the INK blend materials of the Luciola, or a clear and resonant sound from the polycarbonate housing of the Yoel, users have the opportunity to customize their typing experience based on their sound preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. In terms of actuation force, the Luciola requires 55 grams, while the Yoel requires 53 grams, making the Yoel slightly lighter. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that they will offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out. The difference in actuation force may be noticeable to users who prefer a lighter touch for typing, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Luciola. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter compared to the 3.2 mm travel distance of the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. The slight difference in travel distance may not seem significant but can impact how the key feels when pressed. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Luciola's shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Yoel switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to individual preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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, both the Gateron Luciola and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer unique and distinctive auditory experiences. The Luciola switch provides a clacky and hollow sound reminiscent of shaking a can of spray paint, while the Yoel switch offers a bright and clacky profile with a satisfying resonance upon bottoming out. Each switch has its own character in terms of sound, appealing to different preferences in keyboard acoustics. If you enjoy a sharp, percussive sound, the Luciola may be more to your liking, whereas if you prefer a brighter and more resonant sound, the Yoel could be the better choice.
In regard to feel, the Gateron Luciola switch is described as having a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a medium heft. It provides a snappy and responsive experience, making typing feel more alive. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch delivers a chewy and creamy typing experience, enveloping fingertips with each press. With a buttery and polished feel, the Yoel switch offers a smooth and refined typing sensation, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches aim to provide a seamless and effortless typing experience, enhanced by their respective tactile qualities.
In conclusion, when comparing the Gateron Luciola and PH Studio Yoel linear switches, it's evident that they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Luciola switch stands out for its clacky and bouncy typing feel, accompanied by a hollow sound profile, while the Yoel switch offers a chewy and creamy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's personal preference for sound and feel. Whether you prefer a more percussive and snappy typing experience or a smoother and buttery sensation, both the Luciola and Yoel switches provide quality options in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a switch that glows in the dark and offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a medium bottom out force, then the Luciola might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, along with a medium bottom out force, then the Yoel could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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