Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Akko V3 Piano Pro with its linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel, also featuring a linear switch. The V3 Piano Pro stands out for its Piano Pro switches, known for their snappy sound signature that adds a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke. Alongside this auditory charm, they offer a smooth actuation for a pleasing tactile experience. On the other hand, the Yoel by PH Studio delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile and a satisfying resonance when keys bottom out. Both switches offer unique characteristics such as bouncy, creamy, and polished for the V3 Piano Pro, while the Yoel is described as clacky, high-pitched, and marbly. 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the PH Studio Yoel offer distinct sound profiles based on their composition. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, which creates a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic composition. While the V3 Piano Pro's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deep sound profile, the Yoel's POM bottom housing offers a unique and more muted sound experience.
Despite their differences, both the V3 Piano Pro and the Yoel showcase the impact that housing materials have on the sound produced by mechanical switches. The use of nylon in the V3 Piano Pro creates a classic and softer sound profile, while the polycarbonate used in the Yoel produces a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the presence of POM in the Yoel's bottom housing adds a deeper tone to the overall sound experience. Ultimately, both keyboards demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly influence the sound output and typing experience for users.
Furthermore, the distinction between the top and bottom housing materials in each keyboard highlights how each component contributes differently to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing's impact is most noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This separation of housing materials demonstrates the importance of balance and synergy between the components to achieve the desired sound characteristics in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro requires 55 grams, slightly heavier than the Yoel's 60 grams. This means that the V3 Piano Pro provides a lighter initial touch but a slightly heavier bottom out experience, while the Yoel offers a heavier initial touch but a lighter bottom out feel. Both switches fall into the medium-light to medium range, making them suitable for various preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether a user prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm option. Gamers may prefer the Akko V3 Piano Pro for its slightly longer travel distance, allowing for a more deliberate keystroke, while those looking for faster response times may lean towards the PH Studio Yoel with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its snappy and resonant characteristics, providing a crisp and lively sound signature with each keystroke. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as bright and clacky, offering a distinctive and satisfying sound experience. Both switches exhibit qualities of being clacky and resonant, which means that users can expect a sharp and percussive sound profile regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, whether you opt for the V3 Piano Pro or the Yoel, you can anticipate similar results in terms of sound quality.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is praised for its bouncy and creamy tactile feedback, providing a smooth and elastic typing experience. Conversely, the PH Studio Yoel switch is also characterized by its creamy and polished feel, ensuring a buttery smooth typing sensation with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Both switches offer a silky and refined typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Thus, whether you select the V3 Piano Pro or the Yoel, you can expect a similar level of smoothness and comfort in the tactile feedback provided by these switches.
In conclusion, when comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you can expect similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience, with characteristics such as clacky sound profiles and creamy tactile feedback being prominent in both. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the specific sound and feel that you desire during your typing sessions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation with a medium-light bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delectably chewy typing experience with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Make sure to test out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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