Durock Piano vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Piano and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique typing experiences. The Durock Piano is praised for its proprietary material blend, resulting in a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep sound signature. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy typing sensation with a bright and clacky sound profile. While the Piano is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky', the Yoel boasts characteristics such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Piano and PH Studio Yoel switches both utilize unique housing materials to enhance their sound profiles. The Piano features a proprietary POM blend top and bottom housing, offering a satisfying and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Yoel incorporates a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Yoel's bottom housing creates a deeper, more muted sound compared to its polycarbonate top housing counterpart.
While both switches aim to provide a unique sound experience, the housing materials of the Piano and Yoel lead to distinct characteristics in their sound profiles. The POM blend top housing of the Piano offers a deep and satisfying sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel contributes to a more muted sound profile, adding further depth to the switch's overall sound.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Durock Piano and PH Studio Yoel switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound output. Whether it be the deep and satisfying sound produced by the POM blend in the Piano or the sharp and crisp sound from the polycarbonate in the Yoel, each switch offers a unique auditory experience. By understanding how the top and bottom housing materials affect the sound profile, keyboard enthusiasts can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Piano has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Yoel's 60 grams. Both switches have different actuation forces, with the Piano having None grams and the Yoel having 53 grams. The Piano switch provides a medium-heavy bottom out force while the Yoel switch offers a medium bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yoel switch may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Piano switch with its higher bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Piano switch. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker response time for the Yoel switch, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reaction speeds. On the other hand, the Piano switch with a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke feel for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their respective travel distances, and users can expect different levels of responsiveness and feedback when using each one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep and rich bassy profile during key presses, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a bright and clacky sound profile, with a pronounced resonance that adds a crisp and percussive element to each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the Piano may be favored for its bassy and creamy sound, while the Yoel may appeal to those who enjoy a brighter and clacky typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Piano switch is characterized by its frictionless and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes resistance and enhances the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch provides a creamy and polished sensation, allowing for a buttery and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a silky typing feel, ensuring an enjoyable and comfortable typing experience for users.
Overall, the Durock Piano linear switch and PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Piano excels in providing a bassy and creamy sound with a frictionless typing experience, the Yoel stands out for its bright and clacky sound profile paired with a creamy and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, but rest assured that both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Piano linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a deep, creamy sound profile, the Durock Piano may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Yoel could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.
Mentioned in this article
