KTT Mint vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mint and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their unique characteristics. The Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness and a light, fleeting feel. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, along with a satisfying resonance upon bottoming out. While the Mint is categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Yoel is described as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant. These general pointers can help you decide which switch may be the best fit for your typing needs; 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
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall look of the keyboard. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound profile and visual experience due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Mint utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that adds a unique dimension to typing on the keyboard. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which produces a more muted sound profile on the deeper side. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and can impact the sound and feel of the switches when pressed.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will be reflected in different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will impact the sound when letting go of a key. This means that the choice of housing materials in each part of the switch will play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience for both the KTT Mint and the PH Studio Yoel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch differ slightly. The Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams, making the Mint more sensitive to keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mint requires 53 grams while the Yoel needs 60 grams, making the Yoel slightly heavier. Both switches provide a medium level of resistance, with the Mint leaning towards the lighter side and the Yoel being a bit firmer. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the Mint for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force, while others may opt for the Yoel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Mint offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper press feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a shorter travel distance, which is ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness. Ultimately, selecting either switch will provide a unique typing experience tailored to individual needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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
The KTT Mint linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with a resonant and marbly quality. When it comes to feel, the Mint switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Yoel switch delivers a creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation, offering a smooth and buttery feel with minimal resistance.
Overall, while the Mint and Yoel switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both promise a satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the poppy thockiness of the Mint switch or the bright clackiness of the Yoel switch. Additionally, the smooth and refined finishes of both switches ensure a pleasant and effortless keystroke. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Mint or the Yoel switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your auditory and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mint linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the key characteristics of each. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a smooth, poppy thockiness with a light and fleeting typing feel, then the Mint switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a bright and clacky sound profile with a pronounced resonance, and a creamy, polished typing experience, then the Yoel switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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