Gateron Melodic vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, and the PH Studio Yoel, a linear switch. The Melodic by Gateron stands out for its seamless combination of classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, offering a unique typing experience characterized as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy'. On the other hand, the Yoel by PH Studio, manufactured by BSUN, boasts a chewy typing sensation with a bright and clacky profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out, earning descriptors like 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its strengths and appeals, but diving deeper into their specific features and performance will help you make the best choice for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a clear and resonant sound that is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches have the same top housing material, the Melodic stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Yoel's POM bottom housing, which produces a more muted sound. The use of nylon in the Melodic's bottom housing allows for a more rounded sound, whereas the Yoel's POM housing creates a unique deep sound.
In terms of typing experience, the choice of housing material for the bottom of the switch can have a significant impact on the overall feel and sound. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Melodic absorbs more sound than the harder POM bottom housing of the Yoel, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key, making the choice of polycarbonate top housing in both switches crucial for achieving a sharp and resonant sound. Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch brings a unique balance of sound characteristics, with the Melodic offering a deeper sound profile while the Yoel provides a more muted tone.
Overall, both the Gateron Melodic and PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate top housings to create a sharp and clear sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. While the Melodic stands out with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing for a more muted tone. The difference in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound experience, with the Melodic offering a more rounded sound while the Yoel provides a unique deep tone. Regardless of these differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing material in achieving the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are some key differences. The Gateron Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium, but its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling into the medium range. The Melodic switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Yoel switch, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Yoel switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, ensuring a consistent typing feel when fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option for key presses. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Gamers may prefer the Yoel switch for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Melodic switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, providing users with the option to choose the best fit for their typing or gaming preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Melodic clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy profile, providing a clean and sharp sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound that resonates satisfyingly when keys bottom out. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Melodic delivering a higher-pitched and immersive sound, while the Yoel offers a sharp and percussive tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is often described as buttery and invigorating, promising a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. On the contrary, the PH Studio Yoel switch is known for its creamy and polished sensation, providing a silky and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback and typing sensations, catering to different preferences for keystroke smoothness and feedback intensity.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch each excel in their unique sound and feel qualities, offering users a variety of options based on their auditory and tactile preferences. While the Melodic provides a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Yoel delivers a clacky sound with a creamy and polished typing sensation. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound and immersive feedback or a bright and percussive tone with a silky typing experience, both switches offer exceptional performance in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a smooth and invigorating typing experience, the Melodic switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a creamy and polished typing sensation, the Yoel switch could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer a bottom out force of 60 grams, but it is important to consider the specific sound and feel characteristics that appeal to you most when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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