Outemu Crystal Brown vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the PH Studio Yoel offer distinct typing experiences. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump when pressing down on the keys. In contrast, the Yoel is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and delectably chewy typing experience. While the Crystal Brown is best suited for those who prefer a tactile feedback, the Yoel appeals to those who enjoy a bright and clacky typing sound. 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
55g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the PH Studio Yoel both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced by these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common material in their top housing, the Crystal Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Crystal Brown and the Yoel contributes to the overall typing experience of each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. In comparison, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel provides a deeper and more muted sound that adds to the overall typing experience. This demonstrates how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of a mechanical switch.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the PH Studio Yoel showcase how different housing materials can affect the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound, the choice of bottom housing material in each switch leads to distinct differences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound profile from nylon or a unique, muted sound from POM, these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Brown requires 55 grams to fully press the key, while the Yoel needs 60 grams. This means that while the Crystal Brown is lighter in terms of actuation force, the Yoel is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Crystal Brown for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Yoel for its heavier forces. Ultimately, understanding these differences can help users choose the switch that best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2 mm. The Crystal Brown's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional and deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel's shorter 3.2 mm travel distance caters to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, with the Crystal Brown providing a deeper key press and the Yoel offering a more swift and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and response time.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 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
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is known for its subtle and satisfying typing experience, characterized by a quiet and smooth operation. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is famous for its chewy and enveloping feel, providing a more pronounced and immersive typing sensation. In terms of sound, the Crystal Brown is relatively quiet and unassuming, while the Yoel produces a bright and clacky profile, with a satisfying resonance when keys reach the bottom-out point. For those looking for a creamy and polished typing feel, the Crystal Brown may be the choice, while the Yoel offers a silky and smooth experience. Overall, while the Crystal Brown and Yoel switches have different subjective qualities in sound and feel, both switches will provide a high-quality typing experience for any user, catering to individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a satisfying tactile bump without being too heavy on the fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force that provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch would be more suitable for you. It is known for its creamy feel and bright, clacky sound profile that adds a unique touch to your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Crystal Brown and Yoel switches will depend on your preference for tactility and sound feedback in your mechanical keyboard.
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