HMX Perky vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and the PH Studio Yoel are two intriguing options within the linear category, each offering distinct typing experiences suited to different preferences. The HMX Perky is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housing, providing a neutral and deeply satisfying feel with a shorter travel distance that allows for a more condensed typing experience—ideal for those who prioritize speed and efficiency. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, captivates users with a delectably chewy sensation, enveloping fingers with every key press. Its bright and clacky acoustic profile ensures that each keystroke delivers a satisfying resonance, making it a great fit for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. While both switches share a linear design and promise smooth key presses, their unique characteristics cater to different typing styles and 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
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and the PH Studio Yoel switches utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct auditory experiences. The Perky features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness allows nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a sound that is comparatively duller and rounder. In contrast, the Yoel uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a clearer, sharper, and more resonant sound profile due to its stiffer composition. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances aesthetic appeal, especially in setups that employ RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through more effectively, illuminating the switch from within.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches again differ, with the Perky utilizing nylon and the Yoel employing POM. The nylon bottom housing in the Perky continues its contribution to the overall deep and full sound, reinforcing the characteristics established by the top housing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing in the Yoel shifts the focus slightly by introducing a deeper yet muted sound profile, which can create an interesting texture in the typing experience. The combination of these materials alters the acoustic properties, with the bottom housing influencing the sound when the key bottoms out and the top housing affecting the sound upon release.
Overall, while the HMX Perky and the PH Studio Yoel exhibit different material choices in both their top and bottom housings, they can still achieve similar sound profiles through their individual characteristics. The nylon used in both the Perky’s top and bottom housings emphasizes a rounder and deeper acoustic experience, while the Yoel’s combination of polycarbonate and POM allows for a more complex layering of sound profiles. Ultimately, the unique impact of each switch’s materials on the typing experience demonstrates that, despite their differences, both can deliver satisfying auditory results rooted in their design intentions.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer, more effortless typing experience—especially beneficial for extended use in work or gaming. In contrast, the Yoel switch features a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who favor a more tactile and substantial feel when typing. This means that users of the Yoel may experience a more deliberate push, which can enhance their typing experience for certain applications. Overall, if you are seeking a lighter switch for comfort over prolonged periods, the Perky is the suitable choice, whereas the Yoel appeals to those who appreciate a firmer response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, the Perky measures a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Yoel the more compact option, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Perky offers a bit more depth, potentially appealing to those who favor a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches fall within the contemporary trend of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, but the Perky's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for users who prefer that characteristic. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference, with the Yoel being the shorter option for those prioritizing speed and the Perky catering to users seeking a deeper engagement.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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
The HMX Perky linear switch's sound characteristics are currently unknown, whereas the PH Studio Yoel switch is noteworthy for its bright and clacky auditory profile. When pressed, the Yoel produces a distinctively crisp and percussive sound, combined with high-pitched resonances that create an immersive typing ambiance. This combination results in a sharp auditory experience, appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced click when typing. Such sound profiles can create a lively atmosphere in any typing session, enhancing the overall experience.
In terms of feel, the Perky switch is described as providing a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, ideal for those who appreciate a more condensed typing action due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, the Yoel switch offers a delectably chewy sensation that envelops the fingertips with every keystroke. Its "creamy," "polished," and "silky" descriptors indicate a luxurious typing experience that is both smooth and inviting, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This combination of tactile feedback and smooth operation is likely to appeal to typists who prioritize comfort and fluidity in their typing sessions.
In summary, both the HMX Perky and PH Studio Yoel linear switches present unique auditory and tactile experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Perky offers an unspecified sound profile but excels in providing a satisfying and condensed feel for typing. Conversely, the Yoel delivers a vibrant acoustic signature alongside a richly textured touch, marked by its creamy and polished characteristics. While these switches cater to different preferences, both can contribute significantly to an enjoyable keyboard experience, allowing users to find a balance that meets their particular needs in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a more compact typing experience, the Perky switch is an excellent choice, offering a very satisfying, slightly softer feel with its 50-gram bottom-out force and shorter travel distance. This makes it ideal for fast typists or those who spend long hours typing and want to minimize finger fatigue. Additionally, the Perky’s glittery nylon housing provides a sound profile that’s neutral, allowing you to focus on your work or play without distraction. Conversely, if you’re looking for a more substantial feel under your fingers, the Yoel switch, with its medium 60-gram bottom-out force, delivers a delectably chewy experience that combines both a satisfying auditory resonance and a smooth, polished feel. This makes it great for those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback with a clacky, bright sound, and perhaps have a penchant for louder, more expressive keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value a lighter, softer typing experience or a more pronounced, textured engagement with your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
