KTT Purple Star vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Purple Star stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience and light 45g bottom-out, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press switch. On the other hand, the Yoel by PH Studio offers a chewy typing sensation with a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced. Categorized as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant, the Yoel switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile and clicky typing experience. 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
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the PH Studio Yoel, it is evident that they both use POM for their bottom housings, which results in a similar deep and muted sound profile. This means that when typing on either keyboard, users can expect a consistent tactile experience in terms of sound and feel. However, when it comes to the top housings, the Purple Star uses POM while the Yoel uses polycarbonate. The POM top housing of the Purple Star creates a unique, deeper sound, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in material highlights how the top housing can significantly impact the overall sound profile of a keyboard switch.
Aesthetically, the choice of housing material also plays a key role in the overall design of the keyboard. The Purple Star's POM top housing offers a more understated and muted look compared to the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing, which is translucent and allows for RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the Yoel's top housing not only enhances the visual appeal of the keyboard but also contributes to a more vibrant and colorful lighting experience. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM top housing prioritizes sound quality over visual effects, making it a suitable choice for users who value a deeper and more muted sound profile when typing.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Purple Star and the PH Studio Yoel will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, aesthetics, and typing experience. While both keyboards share a similar POM bottom housing for a consistent tactile feel, the choice of top housing material will significantly impact the sound profile and overall design of the keyboard. Whether users prefer the deeper, muted sound of the Purple Star's POM housing or the sharper, crisper sound of the Yoel's polycarbonate housing, each keyboard offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams, making the Purple Star easier to trigger keystrokes with. Additionally, the Purple Star has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Yoel's 60 grams, indicating that typing on the Purple Star may feel less strenuous on the fingers compared to the Yoel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Star for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Yoel may appeal to those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches highlight the importance of weight when considering a keyboard switch, as it can significantly impact the typing experience and comfort level for different users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, the Purple Star has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular for gamers seeking faster response times. The Purple Star's 3.5 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth compared to the Yoel's 3.2 mm, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
The KTT Purple Star linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, with a resonant and satisfying resonance upon bottoming out. When it comes to feel, the Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for key activation. In contrast, the Yoel switch is characterized as creamy, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness.
In conclusion, while both the Purple Star and Yoel linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities, they cater to different preferences. The Purple Star switch is ideal for those who prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a neutral, low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Yoel switch appeals to individuals who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying typing feel, accompanied by a clacky and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that users will achieve their desired typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light and smooth typing feel with a low-pitched sound, the Purple Star may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a bright and clacky sound profile, along with a creamy and polished typing feel, the Yoel could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you enjoy the most, whether it's the gentle and easy-to-press feel of the Purple Star or the chewy and resonant sensation of the Yoel.
Mentioned in this article
