Cherry MX Black vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Black and the PH Studio Yoel switches offer unique experiences. The MX Black, a linear switch, is renowned for its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, making it a favorite among those who prefer a low-pitched and stiff typing feel. On the other hand, the Yoel, also a linear switch, provides a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is satisfying and pronounced. While the MX Black appeals to those who appreciate a familiar and textured feel, the Yoel caters to individuals seeking a creamy and polished keypress. 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
60g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and PH Studio Yoel switches both utilize different housing materials to create unique sound profiles. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic material, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yoel switch uses a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Yoel switch allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice among users looking for customizable aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the MX Black and PH Studio Yoel switches also differ in materials. The MX Black utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which, like its top housing, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Yoel switch features a POM bottom housing, known for producing a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon. This difference in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing or gaming.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and PH Studio Yoel switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the MX Black offers a softer and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housing, the Yoel switch provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and POM bottom housing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, highlighting the importance of housing material in creating a distinct typing or gaming experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. The MX Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. In contrast, the Yoel switch has a lighter actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Yoel switch may be the better choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, the MX Black switch would be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The MX Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth in key presses compared to the Yoel switch. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Yoel switch. Both switches offer a different feel based on their travel distances, with the MX Black being the longer option and the Yoel being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a bright and clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound with a resonance that is both satisfying and pronounced. Depending on personal preference, the MX Black may offer a deeper and more subdued typing experience in terms of sound, while the Yoel provides a more lively and vibrant auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is recognized for its textured and stiff properties, providing a noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the MX Black may offer a more tactile and stiff typing experience, the Yoel provides a luxurious and effortless feel to each keystroke, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black provides a deep and textured typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Yoel offers a bright and clacky typing experience with a creamy and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options providing a high-quality typing experience tailored to different preferences. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing performance and satisfaction for users, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavier, textured switch with a deep sound profile, you may want to choose the Cherry MX Black linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, creamy switch with a bright, clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch might be the better option for you. Consider your preference for weight, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your personal typing style and preferences.
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