HMX Lucky vs. PH Studio Yoel

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, the HMX Lucky and the PH Studio Yoel both bring unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The HMX Lucky is celebrated for its lightweight design and softer, glittery nylon housings, offering a neutral and deeply satisfying typing sensation that can appeal to those who appreciate a smooth yet gentle touch. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, crafted by BSUN, stands out with its delectably chewy feel, enveloping fingers in a pronounced and clacky sound profile that resonates with each keystroke, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile auditory experience. While both switches are linear and provide a satisfying typing experience, their distinct characteristics could influence your choice depending on whether you favor a plush and smooth feel or an engaging sound and texture. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Lucky Linear

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the PH Studio Yoel switches present contrasting acoustic qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Lucky, with its nylon top housing, is designed to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to the inherent acoustic properties of nylon, which is a softer plastic that tends to absorb sound, resulting in a more rounded auditory experience. Conversely, the PH Studio Yoel employs a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for a resonant clarity that stands out, especially in clear housings where RGB lighting can enhance visual aesthetics. As such, users looking for a richer, more subdued sound might prefer the Lucky, while those who favor a crisper and more distinct auditory feedback could be drawn to the Yoel.

The comparison extends to the bottom housings as well, where the HMX Lucky's nylon bottom housing aligns with its top housing to reinforce the deep sound profile. Nylon, characterized by its sound-absorbing qualities, contributes to an overall muted but satisfying auditory experience when bottoming out. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel incorporates a POM bottom housing that also leans towards a deeper and slightly more muted sound. However, POM (polyoxymethylene) is known for its durability and smoothness, which can enhance the typing experience through a unique tactile feedback. Therefore, while both switches employ materials that provide a deeper sound profile, the nylon bottom in the Lucky and the POM bottom in the Yoel combine differently with their respective top housings to create distinct auditory results.

Despite the differences in material composition between the Lucky and the Yoel, there are avenues to achieve similar results in terms of sound characteristics. For users seeking a more rounded sound, the combination of the nylon bottom and top housing in the Lucky is already optimized for this auditory signature. Meanwhile, the Yoel, while having a sharper character, can also deliver a satisfying auditory experience through the interplay of its polycarbonate top and POM bottom. If a user prioritizes sound dampening and is drawn to the overall sound profile of the Lucky, they might opt for a similar switch but with modifications to the dampening features or keycap materials on the Yoel to mimic that fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two largely rests on personal preference, as each combination provides a unique blend of acoustic properties suitable for different typing experiences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky offers a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as users may find it less tiring over time. In contrast, the Yoel features a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a more substantial feel that some users prefer for better tactile feedback. Consequently, the Lucky is the lighter option, appealing to those who prioritize comfort and endurance, while the Yoel caters to users seeking a stronger typing experience. Overall, the variations in force between these two switches indicate how they can cater to different typing preferences and styles.

Travel distance

The HMX Lucky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Lucky switch the longer option, offering a more substantial keypress feel that could appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more deliberate typing experience. In contrast, the Yoel switch's 3.2 mm travel distance caters to users who prioritize responsiveness, especially in gaming, where quicker key activation can lead to improved performance. As shorter travel distances are increasingly favored for quicker response times, the Yoel switch may be more suited for gamers. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences—whether one wishes for more depth or a snappier feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Lucky's sound profile remains unspecified here, but the Yoel is marked by its bright and clacky nature. Described as sharp, snappy, and high-pitched, the Yoel produces a pronounced resonance at bottom-out, delivering a more immersive auditory experience that many may find satisfying. This contrast suggests that while the Lucky could potentially have a quieter or less pronounced sound, the Yoel emphasizes a clear and dynamic acoustic feedback during use.

In terms of feel, the Lucky's attributes are not explicitly defined, leaving its tactile experience a bit of a mystery. However, the feel of the Yoel is richly described as chewy, offering a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. The creamy aspect indicates that users can glide effortlessly over the keys, while the polished nature contributes to a refined overall experience with minimal friction. The exceptional smoothness often associated with creamy switches suggests that the Yoel provides not only a pleasant tactile feedback but also an enjoyable flow as you type. Without specific descriptors for the Lucky, it remains uncertain how its feel might compare.

In summary, the HMX Lucky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch present distinct auditory and tactile profiles, with the Yoel showcasing a vibrant, clacky sound and a luxurious typing feel. The finer details regarding the Lucky's sound and feel remain elusive, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons. However, if you seek a lively auditory experience coupled with a smooth typing action, the Yoel may be the preferred choice, while the Lucky could offer a balanced and potentially quieter typing experience. Ultimately, your preference between these two switches will hinge on your desired sound and tactile characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lucky and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches mainly hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound characteristics. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom-out force of 43 grams that provides a neutral and satisfying typing experience, the Lucky is the ideal choice. Its softer, glittery nylon housings promise a smooth, less resistant feel, making it particularly suitable for those who engage in fast typing or gaming where quick key presses are crucial. Conversely, if you're seeking a more substantial typing experience with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Yoel switch stands out for its delightful, chewy feel and bright, clacky sound profile. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy a tactile and auditory feedback during typing, as it delivers a polished and creamy sensation that enhances each keystroke while providing a pronounced resonance when the key bottoms out. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a lighter touch or a more immersive, audibly engaging typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

Learn more