Haimu Orange Sea vs. PH Studio Yoel

Overview

When it comes to personalizing your typing experience, mechanical keyboard switches play a pivotal role, and two popular options in the linear switch category are the Haimu Orange Sea and the PH Studio Yoel. The Haimu Orange Sea is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a clean and uninterrupted keystroke with minimal auditory distraction. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel, crafted by BSUN, offers a delectably chewy typing experience that engages your fingertips with each press. This switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying resonance at the bottom-out point that many typists find enjoyable. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, the choice ultimately comes down to whether you prefer the serene smoothness of the Orange Sea or the lively feedback of the Yoel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences.

By the numbers

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$2.79 per 10

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Orange Sea and the PH Studio Yoel, one can see notable similarities in the top housing, as both feature polycarbonate. This choice of material yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate that enhances clarity and resonance. The translucence of polycarbonate also makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting applications, ensuring that the aesthetic appeal is not sacrificed in favor of sound quality. Since both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect a similar auditory experience characterized by clarity and brightness in their keystrokes.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Orange Sea and the Yoel diverge significantly in material composition, with the former using nylon and the latter utilizing POM. Nylon is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound and produces a muted, rounder tone. In comparison, POM material leads to a unique sound experience that is similarly on the deeper side but may present a slightly more muted character, diverging from the fuller impact delivered by nylon. As the bottom housing is critical for the bottom-out feel and sound, these differences will distinctly influence how each switch feels and sounds upon actuation.

Ultimately, the combination of these materials contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. Since the top housing of both the Haimu Orange Sea and PH Studio Yoel are the same in material, the crispness associated with polycarbonate will be prevalent in both switches. However, the nylon and POM materials in the bottom housings create a contrast in their auditory and tactile feedback when keys are pressed. Users can thus expect varied responses when bottoming out, despite the similar tonal clarity offered by the polycarbonate tops. This interaction between the differing qualities of the top and bottom housings adds depth to the conversation of switch experiences, highlighting how material selection plays a significant role in the final auditory and tactile outcomes.

Weight

The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Yoel switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Consequently, the Haimu Orange Sea is the lighter switch, while the PH Studio Yoel is the heavier option, providing different tactile experiences aligned with individual preferences. Overall, the differing weights and forces of these switches suggest that the Orange Sea will allow for a more effortless typing experience, while the Yoel will deliver a firmer resistance for those who favor a robust keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we see a notable difference: the Orange Sea has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yoel measures at 3.2 mm. This means that the Yoel switch is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that benefits gamers looking for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Orange Sea's longer travel distance provides a deeper feel, which some users might find more satisfying and less abrupt. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming, the Yoel would likely suit your needs better, while those who appreciate a more tactile experience may prefer the Orange Sea.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the Haimu Orange Sea and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches, notable differences emerge. The Orange Sea features a neutral sound signature that remains unobtrusive while typing, making it an ideal choice for minimalist setups or office environments where distraction is a concern. In contrast, the Yoel switch presents a bright and clacky profile that delivers a sharp, snappy sound upon key activation. The resonance is both pronounced and satisfying, providing an engaging auditory experience that many typists find exhilarating.

Turning to the feel of the switches, the Haimu Orange Sea is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing experience, which allows for effortless keystrokes. This quality ensures that users can type quickly and accurately without experiencing any snagging or resistance. Conversely, the Yoel switch offers a delectably chewy sensation, described as creamy, polished, and silky. The combination of these attributes creates a typing feel that is not only smooth but also enjoyable, as if your fingers are gliding effortlessly over each key.

In summary, if you are seeking a linear switch for a more subdued auditory experience and ultra-smooth keystrokes, the Haimu Orange Sea may be your best bet. However, if you prefer a bright sound profile and seek a typing experience that is rich in character and texture, the PH Studio Yoel is a compelling option. While both switches deliver quality performance, your final choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound aesthetics or tactile feedback in your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch primarily hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams and appreciate an impeccably smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Orange Sea switches may be your best option. They’re particularly suitable for those who enjoy long typing sessions or repetitive keystrokes, as their lighter actuation can reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced feedback with a slightly heftier actuation force of 60 grams, the Yoel switches deliver a delectably chewy feel that envelops your fingertips with every press. The bright and clacky sound, characterized as crisp and resonant, provides an engaging auditory experience that can enhance the overall typing enjoyment, particularly for those who relish a more responsive and immersive sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style—whether you lean towards a light, smooth experience or a firmer, more tactile feedback with pronounced sound characteristics will guide you to the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

Learn more