Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the PH Studio Yoel stand out as popular choices, each offering unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, known for its reliable performance and comfortable feedback. On the other hand, the Yoel is a linear switch, praised for its smooth and satisfying typing feel, accompanied by a distinctively clacky sound profile. While the Dustproof Brown is ideal for those who prefer a tactile typing experience, the Yoel appeals to those who enjoy a smooth and resonant keystroke. 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
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Brown and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Dustproof Brown has a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which creates a pleasing but more muted sound profile on the deeper side.
Despite their similarities in using polycarbonate for the top housing, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the PH Studio Yoel differ in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing produces a unique and relatively more muted sound. This difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing materials affects the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the PH Studio Yoel feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a more unique and muted sound. The choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining their sound profile and overall typing experience, with each material bringing its own characteristics to the table.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Yoel's 60 grams. This means that the Dustproof Brown provides a lighter initial typing experience but requires more force to fully press down the key, while the Yoel offers a slightly heavier initial push but requires less force to bottom out. Overall, the Dustproof Brown can provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Yoel may be preferred for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force.These differences in weight and force can cater to different preferences, with some users preferring the lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions and others opting for a heavier bottom out force for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Yoel the shorter option compared to the Dustproof Brown. The Dustproof Brown falls into the more traditional travel distance category, providing a deeper and more satisfying press for those who prefer a bit more depth. On the other hand, the Yoel's shorter travel distance may be more appealing to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Dustproof Brown catering to those who prefer a more substantial keypress and the Yoel appealing to those who value quick and responsive keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Dustproof 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound descriptor mentioned, making it difficult to compare directly to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. However, the Yoel switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and resonant typing experience that is sure to stand out. The Dustproof Brown's sound qualities may vary based on the keyboard setup and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing a switch for your desired sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Brown also lacks a specific feel descriptor, contrasting with the Yoel switch known for its creamy and silky typing experience. The Yoel switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel, allowing for effortless keystrokes that glide with ease. This distinct feel can greatly impact the typing experience and should be taken into consideration when deciding between the two switches.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Brown's subjective qualities are not explicitly mentioned, the Yoel switch is known for its clacky sound profile and creamy typing experience. Understanding how these subjective qualities align with your preferences and typing style will ultimately guide you in choosing the switch that best suits your needs. If you prefer a sharper and more resonant sound with a smooth and buttery feel, the Yoel switch may be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a different sound and feel, exploring further options in the mechanical keyboard switch market may yield more suitable results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are indifferent towards specific sound and feel characteristics, the Dustproof Brown may be the better choice for you. However, if you are seeking a switch with a medium bottom out force that delivers a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.