Cherry Nixie vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie 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 Nixie and PH Studio Yoel linear switches both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Cherry Nixies are renowned for their substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out. The Nixie is characterized by its low-pitched sound and thocky feel, while the Yoel offers a high-pitched and creamy typing experience. 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
63.5g
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
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and PH Studio Yoel switches offer distinct sound profiles and performance characteristics. The Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deep and fuller sound thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. This difference in material leads to a noticeable variation in sound quality when typing on the switches.
Furthermore, the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and PH Studio Yoel switches continue to diverge when it comes to their bottom housings. The Nixie's nylon bottom housing mirrors its top housing in providing a deep and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Yoel's POM bottom housing produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Cherry Nixie and PH Studio Yoel switches, both showcase the importance of top and bottom housing composition in creating distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Nixie emphasizes a softer nylon material for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deep and dull sound, the Yoel combines a clear polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound with a POM bottom housing for a deeper, more muted sound. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users choose the right switch for their preferences and typing needs.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Yoel is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are lower than the Nixie's corresponding forces. The Nixie, on the other hand, is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Yoel switch, as it has lower force requirements for both actuation and bottoming out. In contrast, the Nixie switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm., making the Yoel the shorter of the two switches. The Nixie falls into the more traditional travel distance category, offering a standard keypress feel. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a shallower travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. However, those who enjoy a deeper keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Nixie to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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
The Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, giving users a deep and satisfying sound when typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. The Nixie switch gives a textured feel, adding a level of friction to each keystroke, while the Yoel switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys. Overall, if you prefer a deep and bass-heavy sound with a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a bright and clacky sound with a smooth and refined typing feel, the PH Studio Yoel switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will be able to find their preferred typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a creamy and polished feel, accompanied by a bright and clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Yoel switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize heft and tradition or a more modern and smooth typing experience. Choose wisely based on what best fits your typing style and preferences.
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