Outemu Tom vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and PH Studio Yoel offer distinct typing experiences. The Tom is a tactile switch known for its reliable performance, while the Yoel is a linear switch that provides a satisfyingly smooth typing feel. The Tom may be preferred for its consistent tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile bump while typing. On the other hand, the Yoel is praised for its clacky and resonant sound profile, offering a unique typing experience with every key press. 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
55g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the PH Studio Yoel, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches using RGB lighting. However, the Tom has a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound compared to nylon.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the different bottom housing materials in the Tom and Yoel contribute to distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing in the Tom provides a deeper and fuller sound, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing in the Yoel produces a unique deeper sound that is more muted, offering a different typing experience. These differences in bottom housing materials showcase how the overall sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by the material used in both the top and bottom housings.
In terms of sound production, the Tom and Yoel demonstrate how the qualities of each housing material can affect the typing experience. With the Tom's nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound, users can expect a different feel compared to the Yoel's POM bottom housing, which provides a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and different bottom housing materials in the Tom and Yoel switches highlight how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing experience of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch with 53 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Yoel at 60 grams is higher than the Tom, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that while the Tom may require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke, the Yoel will provide a more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Tom may be the better option. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is preferred for a more satisfying typing experience, the Yoel with its heavier bottom out force would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we find that the Tom has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 3.2 mm of the Yoel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in keyboard switches, with the Tom being slightly longer than the Yoel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Yoel for faster response times, while those who prefer a more satisfying key press may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Tom. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in regards to travel distance.
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 Tom 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 Tom tactile switch is not well-known for any specific sound characteristics, as this information is not provided. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is best known for its bright and clacky sound profile. The Yoel switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point, providing a satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, information about the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unavailable. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as offering a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. These descriptors suggest that the Yoel switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, with reduced friction and a refined finish for a sleek and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch are not specified, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch stands out for its bright and clacky sound profile and creamy, polished, and silky feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience, making them suitable options for individuals seeking distinct tactile and auditory feedback from their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a tactile typing experience with a light touch and prefers a switch with no bottom-out force, the Outemu Tom tactile switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and enjoy a clacky and bright sound profile while typing, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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