KTT Miaowu vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the PH Studio Yoel stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Miaowu from KTT is revered for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem, distinguishing it from switches with conventional POM stems. Categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel from PH Studio, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy and satisfying typing experience that envelops fingertips with every press. Known for its bright and clacky sound profile, including characteristics like 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Yoel delivers a pronounced resonance when keys reach their bottom-out point. While both switches offer unique features and benefits, diving deeper into their specific attributes will help you determine the best switch for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Miaowu and the Yoel both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a unique sound that is deeper and more muted compared to nylon.
While both switches share similarities in their top housing material, the differences lie in their bottom housing. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer composition, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing offers a more muted and deeper sound profile. These differences in bottom housing material contribute to the overall sound experience of each switch, with the Yoel offering a more distinct and unique sound compared to the Miaowu. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing is felt more when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key.
In summary, both the Miaowu and the Yoel feature polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp and clear sound profile. However, the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a more muted and unique sound experience. The choice of housing materials for these switches impacts not only the sound produced but also the overall typing feel, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. The Miaowu requires 43 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Yoel needs 53 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Miaowu ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a slightly heavier push, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Miaowu. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Miaowu may provide a bit more depth with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Miaowu and PH Studio Yoel linear switches are described as having a "clacky" profile, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. The Yoel switch also adds in elements of being "high-pitched", "marbly", and "resonant", providing a bright and resonant sound experience that may be more pronounced and satisfying when compared to the Miaowu. However, keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Miaowu switch is characterized as "bouncy", offering a spring-like and lively sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Yoel switch is described as "creamy", "polished", and "silky", providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Miaowu switch offers a bouncy feedback, the Yoel switch focuses on a silky and polished typing feel that may appeal to those looking for a more refined and smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While both switches share the "clacky" sound profile, the Yoel switch provides additional elements such as being "high-pitched", "marbly", and "resonant", resulting in a more pronounced and satisfying sound experience. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch offers a "bouncy" feel, while the Yoel switch focuses on a "creamy", "polished", and "silky" typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch and smoother keystroke action, then the Miaowu with its 50-gram bottom out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a 60-gram bottom out force and enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying sound profile, then the Yoel may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize a bouncy and smooth feel (Miaowu) or a creamy and polished typing experience (Yoel). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and needs to enhance your overall typing experience.
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