KTT Pine vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Pine and the PH Studio Yoel offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Pine is praised for its medium-heavy feel and buttery smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for those looking for an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy typing sensation with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out. While the KTT Pine is described as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched', the Yoel is labeled as 'High-pitched' and 'Resonant'. These general pointers can help you decide which switch aligns better with your typing 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
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Pine and the PH Studio Yoel switches both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially noticeable when using RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Pine utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, maintaining consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housing, creating similar sharp and clear sound profiles and aesthetically allowing for RGB lighting, the different bottom housing materials of the Pine and Yoel switches provide distinct sound characteristics. The Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing to maintain a consistent sound profile with a sharper tone. In contrast, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted, offering a different auditory experience. This distinction in bottom housing materials showcases how the choice of material can impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Pine and the PH Studio Yoel switches comes down to personal preference in sound preference. If you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile throughout the switch, the Pine with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more muted sound, the Yoel's combination of polycarbonate top and POM bottom housing would provide a unique auditory experience. Both switches offer the versatility of polycarbonate for RGB lighting and demonstrate how the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The KTT Pine linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch with a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Pine requiring 58 grams and the Yoel requiring 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Pine switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Yoel switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch both offer different travel distances for users to consider. The Pine switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional depth that provides a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Yoel switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it ideal for those looking for faster response times, especially in gaming scenarios. While the Pine switch offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the Yoel switch caters to users who prefer a shallower and quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a clacky, high-pitched sound with a resonant and marbly quality, resulting in a crisp and sharp auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Pine switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper sound, while the Yoel switch is ideal for individuals who prefer a brighter and more percussive tone.
In terms of feel, both the Pine and Yoel linear switches offer a creamy and silky typing experience. The Pine switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Similarly, the Yoel switch is described as creamy and silky, offering a glide-like feeling as fingers seamlessly interact with the keys. Additionally, the Pine switch boasts a polished finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel, while the Yoel switch envelops fingertips with a chewy typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Pine linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound and feel characteristics. While the Pine switch delivers a bassy and low-pitched sound along with a buttery typing feel, the Yoel switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a creamy and silky sensation. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as both options promise a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a medium-weight linear switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch may be the right choice for you. Its medium-heavy feel and polished, factory-lubed finish offer minimal friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more pronounced and bright sound profile, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch could be a great option. With its delectably chewy typing experience and clacky, resonant sound profile, the Yoel provides a satisfying and immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for weight, sound, and typing feel.
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