Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique experiences for users. The Oil King is praised for its smooth and buttery keystrokes, with a sound profile likened to a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon reaching the bottom-out point. While some may prefer the low-pitched and bassy qualities of the Oil King, others might opt for the high-pitched and resonant nature of the Yoel. 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
55g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the PH Studio Yoel switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Oil King's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and high-pitched sound, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound.
Despite their differences, the Oil King and the Yoel switches both prioritize sound quality through their housing materials. The Oil King's nylon top housing focuses on creating a duller and rounder sound, while the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing aims for a clear and resonant sound. Similarly, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing produces a clacky sound profile, whereas the Yoel's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing deep sound. Both switches excel in providing users with distinct sound experiences based on their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and the PH Studio Yoel switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound. The Oil King's nylon top housing will appeal to those who prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing is better suited for those looking for a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing offers a high-pitched clacky sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing provides a more muted deep sound. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer unique sound experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has an actuation force of 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Oil King requires 65 grams while the Yoel requires 60 grams, making the Yoel slightly lighter in that aspect. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Yoel may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch, the Oil King could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Yoel is the shorter option compared to the Oil King. The shorter travel distance of the Yoel switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Oil King switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences and choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone that is often described as buttery smooth and reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provides a bright and clacky sound profile that is characterized by a satisfying resonance when keys bottom out. While the Oil King leans towards a deeper and richer sound, the Yoel features a sharper and more percussive tone. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the mellower sound of the Oil King or the crisper sound of the Yoel.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Oil King and the PH Studio Yoel switches are described as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This silky sensation enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Whether you choose the Oil King or the Yoel, you can expect a seamless and effortless typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The creamy and polished attributes of both switches make them favorites among users looking for a refined and sleek typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Oil King and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer excellent sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Oil King delights with its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, while the Yoel excels with its bright and clacky sound. In terms of feel, both switches provide a creamy and polished typing experience that is smooth and buttery. Whether you prioritize sound or feel, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, ensuring that you'll get similar results regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that best suit your preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched, buttery smooth typing experience, the Oil King would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a bright, clacky sound profile with a creamy and polished typing feel, the Yoel switch would be more fitting. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how these factors align with your personal typing style and preferences. Experimenting with both switches can help you determine which one provides the best typing experience for you.
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