Gateron Mars vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and the PH Studio Yoel offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gateron Mars stands out with its innovative design featuring a POK stem and housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, creating a smooth linear actuation that many users adore for its consistent keystrokes and reliability during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel provides a uniquely chewy typing feel that envelops your fingertips, making each press a delightful experience. Its bright and clacky sound profile, coupled with a resonant bottom-out, adds a layer of auditory satisfaction that can be quite appealing for enthusiasts who enjoy an engaging typing environment. While both switches fall under the linear category, catering to users seeking a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, their differences in sound and feel can profoundly influence your overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and the PH Studio Yoel present an intriguing contrast in their top housing materials, which significantly affects the auditory experience of each switch. The Mars employs a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material's ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics allows for a rounder, more muted auditory experience, making the switch feel more cushioned during typing. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for situations where RGB lighting is utilized, since clear housing can beautifully showcase such effects. Although they both serve the purpose of encasing the internal mechanisms, the differing materials distinctly shape the overall sound experience when typing.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is composed of POM (Polyoxymethylene). This material creates a unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted, providing a pleasing auditory experience regardless of the switch type. The POM bottom housing contributes to an excellent typing experience as the bottoming-out sound tends to be consistent and enjoyable between the two. Since the bottom housing has a more substantial influence on the feel and sound upon pressing down on the switches, both the Mars and the Yoel provide a similar muted sound sensation that adds a level of sophistication to each keystroke.
Ultimately, while the top housings differ in material and contribute distinctively to the overall sound profile, the shared use of POM for the bottom housing allows for a convergence in auditory experience when the keys are pressed down. Users looking for a more muffled and rich sound will find satisfaction in both switches, albeit with the understanding that the sound released upon key release will vary based on the top housing material. In this way, the benefits of both projects can appeal to different tastes among users by creating diverse auditory landscapes while maintaining a pleasing harmonic consistency due to the shared properties of the POM bottom housing in both the Gateron Mars and the PH Studio Yoel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Gateron Mars features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Yoel requires a heavier actuation force of 53 grams, making the Mars switch the lighter option. However, the Mars does not have a specified bottom out force available, while the Yoel has a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorized as medium. This suggests that the Yoel may provide a more substantial typing experience with a firmer bottom feel due to its measurable bottom out force, which could cater to those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Consequently, users seeking a lighter and potentially less fatiguing option for extended typing sessions might favor the Gateron Mars, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel might gravitate towards the PH Studio Yoel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we find notable differences in their specifications. The Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yoel has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that users of the Yoel switch may experience a quicker response time due to the reduced distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking swift actions. Conversely, the Mars switch offers a longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for the more substantial tactile feedback and the sense of depth it provides. Ultimately, if responsiveness is your priority, the Yoel's shorter travel may be the optimal choice; however, those who favor a deeper keystroke might opt for the Gateron Mars.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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, the Gateron Mars switch remains somewhat of a mystery due to the absence of specific descriptions regarding its auditory profile. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is noted for its bright and clacky attributes, producing a sharp and snappy sound upon activation. This sound quality enhances the typing experience, as the resonance at the bottom-out point adds a satisfying layer of auditory feedback. The clackiness strikes a balance that many typists find appealing, while the high-pitched nature ensures the sounds don't muddle together, making for an engaging experience. Overall, anyone seeking a lively audial experience may prefer the Yoel, while the Mars's sound remains uncharacterized and thus appears non-definitive.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars switch does not have a clearly defined tactile description. Conversely, the Yoel switch is recognized for its delectably chewy typing experience. Users can expect a creamy, polished, and silky sensation, contributing to a smooth and effortless keystroke. The combination of materials and possibly factory lubrication contributes to this refined tactile feedback, allowing fingers to glide seamlessly across the keys. This level of smoothness is appealing to many typists, especially those who prioritize a luxurious and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mars linear switch lacks defined sound and feel characteristics, the PH Studio Yoel excels with its bright, clacky sound and creamy, smooth typing experience. For those specifically seeking auditory stimulation, the Yoel might offer a more satisfying outcome, whereas the Mars offers a more ambiguous experience. Ultimately, if you favor clarity in sound and feel, the Yoel should be your go-to option, whereas the Mars remains an open subject, granting users the potential for discovering a unique switching experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, your preferences play a pivotal role. If you're seeking a switch with a more innovative design and potentially lighter actuation feel, the Gateron Mars might be the way to go. However, do note that specifics on how it feels or sounds are less defined, which may appeal to those who value the unknown or enjoy experimenting with new technology. Conversely, if you prefer a medium-bottom-out force that provides a balanced tactile feedback, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a delectable, creamy typing experience that combines smoothness and a bit of auditory satisfaction with its clacky and bright sound profile. The Yoel is ideal if you appreciate a more pronounced resonance and a polished finish in your typing experience. Therefore, your choice should stem from whether you desire a potentially avant-garde switch with an unlisted bottom-out force or a well-defined, satisfying switch that delivers a smooth feel and delightful sound.
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