Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the PH Studio Yoel. The MX Speed Silver is renowned for its lightning-fast response time, perfect for gamers seeking maximum speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Yoel switch offers a unique typing experience with a satisfyingly clacky sound profile that envelops your fingertips with each press. While the Speed Silver is characterized by its textured and thocky feel, the Yoel switch boasts a creamy and polished sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the PH Studio Yoel, we can see a clear difference in the sound profiles they produce. The MX Speed Silver's nylon top and bottom housing materials create a deeper and fuller sound profile, with a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the Yoel's POM bottom housing adds to this unique sound profile, creating a deeper and more muted sound compared to the MX Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of these switches also have a significant impact. The Yoel's polycarbonate top housing is clear, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and creating a visually striking effect. This is in contrast to the MX Speed Silver's opaque nylon top housing, which may not allow for the same level of customization with lighting effects. However, both switches offer a unique look and feel based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in terms of aesthetics and functionality.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each key press. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that each part of the switch contributes differently to the overall sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during a key press, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This dynamic between the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the PH Studio Yoel results in distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Yoel switch is heavier in both aspects. The MX Speed Silver has a light actuation force of 30 grams, while the Yoel switch requires a heavier 53 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Speed Silver does not provide information, whereas the Yoel requires 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Yoel switch suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver might be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a lighter touch and want to type for longer periods without fatigue. Both switches serve their purpose well based on personal preferences, with the Yoel offering a heavier feel and the MX Speed Silver providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm. However, the MX Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Yoel switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth and feedback might opt for the MX Speed Silver. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Overall, both switches provide a comparable typing experience with their similar travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, creating a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point. When it comes to feel, the MX Speed Silver offers a textured sensation, potentially providing a bit of friction when pressed. In contrast, the Yoel switch delivers a creamy, polished, and silky feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and PH Studio Yoel switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities catering to different preferences. The MX Speed Silver excels in rapid response with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch provides a delectably chewy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, enveloping fingertips with every press. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing or gaming experience, so choosing between them would ultimately depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and rapid response, the MX Speed Silver might be the choice for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a bright, clacky sound and a smooth, polished feel, the PH Studio Yoel switch could be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different nuances.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize speed and rapid response, especially for gaming where every millisecond matters, the MX Speed Silver would be the ideal choice with its instant triggering and low spring resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamy, polished, or silky feel when typing, the Yoel switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation compared to the textured feel of the MX Speed Silver. Ultimately, your selection should align with your priorities in terms of speed, sound, and feel to enhance your overall typing or gaming experience.
Mentioned in this article
