KTT Orange vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the KTT Orange and the PH Studio Yoel. The KTT Orange switch is known for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch offers a chewy typing experience, bright and clacky sound profile, and pronounced resonance upon bottoming out. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
46g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Orange and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a more clear and resonant sound that is ideal for those looking to use RGB lighting with their switches. The aesthetics of the switches are enhanced by the translucency of the polycarbonate material, giving them a visually appealing quality that sets them apart. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing components.
The KTT Orange utilizes polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing, providing a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. This material contributes to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the switch, reflecting the qualities of the polycarbonate material. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the KTT Orange. This difference in bottom housing material results in a distinct sound experience when typing or gaming with each switch.
Despite the variations in bottom housing material, both the KTT Orange and the PH Studio Yoel offer a unique sound profile that is a result of the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether choosing the KTT Orange with its polycarbonate bottom housing or the PH Studio Yoel with POM bottom housing, users can expect a distinct sound profile that enhances their typing or gaming setup.
Weight
The KTT Orange linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the KTT Orange has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the PH Studio Yoel has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall in the medium range when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The lighter actuation force of the KTT Orange may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the PH Studio Yoel may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Yoel being slightly shorter than the Orange. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Yoel switch due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Orange switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to those who value speed and responsiveness in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing sessions. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound, with a satisfying and pronounced resonance when keys bottom out. Depending on personal preference, the Orange switch may offer a smoother and more subdued typing sound, while the Yoel switch provides a more vibrant and percussive auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual sound preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange linear switch is known for its bouncy and frictionless typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances keypress rebound and a smooth key travel that minimizes friction. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as creamy and polished, providing a buttery and refined typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable and effortless typing experience, with the Orange switch focusing on a lively and bouncy sensation, while the Yoel switch prioritizes a silky and polished feel. Depending on personal typing preferences and tactile feedback desired, users can choose between the bouncier Orange switch or the smoother Yoel switch.
Overall, the KTT Orange linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless feel, ideal for those looking for a smoother typing experience with a mellow tone. On the other hand, the Yoel switch delivers a bright and clacky sound with a creamy, polished feel, appealing to users seeking a more vibrant typing sound and a smoother, buttery keypress sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the KTT Orange linear switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should first assess your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams and enjoy a bouncy, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and appreciate a creamy, polished typing sensation with a bright, clacky sound profile that is resonant and marbly, then the PH Studio Yoel switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and comfortable.
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