Outemu Gold vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and the PH Studio Yoel offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch known for its tactile feedback and audible sound when pressed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel is a linear switch manufactured by BSUN, known for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying typing experience. While the Gold switch is preferred by those who enjoy the clicky and tactile feedback, the Yoel switch is favored by users who appreciate a smooth and quiet typing experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
Both the Outemu Gold and the PH Studio Yoel feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housings, the Nylon bottom housing of the Gold elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel creates a pleasing sound profile on the deeper side, with a relatively more muted tone.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Outemu Gold and the PH Studio Yoel affects the overall sound profile and typing experience of these switches. The Nylon bottom housing of the Gold offers a duller and rounder sound, which complements the sharper tones created by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel adds a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. When pressing down on these switches, the bottom housing material will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. Both the Outemu Gold and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile. However, the difference in bottom housing materials, with the Gold featuring Nylon and the Yoel featuring POM, creates variations in sound depth and tone. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help keyboard enthusiasts choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Outemu Gold has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of pressure needed to fully press the key. The lighter actuation force of the Outemu Gold may be preferred by those who enjoy typing for extended periods without experiencing fatigue, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Yoel may appeal to individuals who desire a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and key response.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky 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 switch the shorter option in terms of travel distance. The Gold switch falls more towards the traditional travel distance range of 4.0mm, offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Yoel switch. Gamers may prefer the Yoel switch for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more robust key press experience may opt for the Outemu Gold switch. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key press feeling.
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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch is best known for its satisfying click and tactile bump, providing a crisp and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is praised for its smooth and buttery feel, offering a silky sensation with each keystroke. In terms of sound, the Yoel produces a bright and clacky profile with a resonant bottom-out sound, while the sound profile of the Gold switch is unknown.
When it comes to feel, the Gold switch's tactile bump and click give it a unique typing experience, which may not be as smooth or creamy as the Yoel linear switch. The Yoel, with its creamy and polished feel, allows for effortless keystrokes and reduced friction during typing sessions. Ultimately, while the Gold switch may offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience, the Yoel switch provides a smoother and more refined feel for those seeking a different kind of typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch and PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the satisfying click of the Gold switch or the smooth feel of the Yoel switch, you can expect high-quality performance and durability from both options. When choosing between the two, consider your preference for sound and feel to determine which switch best suits your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and aren't too concerned about sound or feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you're seeking a linear switch with a similar bottom out force but want a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch could be the one for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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