Gateron Quinn vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the PH Studio Yoel, a linear switch. The Quinn is renowned for its crisp and light tactility, coupled with a deep and resonant sound profile thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. Each keystroke on the Quinn offers a unique and immersive typing experience, characterized by a precise and clean tactile bump. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is satisfying and pronounced upon bottoming out. While the Quinn is known for being 'Snappy', 'Bassy', and 'Polished', the Yoel is labeled as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Silky'. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference; 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
59g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the PH Studio Yoel, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different material compositions. The Quinn's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, showcasing a higher-pitched tone. While the Quinn's nylon bottom housing mirrors its top housing with a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Yoel's POM bottom housing produces a more muted sound overall, adding to its unique sound signature.
Although both the Quinn and the Yoel utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing, the impact of each material on the overall sound profile of the switches is significant. The Quinn, with its nylon top and bottom housing, offers a consistent deep and full sound experience throughout typing. In contrast, the Yoel's combination of polycarbonate and POM housing creates a more nuanced sound profile, with the top housing influencing the sound upon key release and the bottom housing affecting the sound when bottoming out a key. This difference in housing materials highlights how the composition of a switch can greatly impact the typing experience.
Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal of these switches is also influenced by their housing materials. The Yoel's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall visual experience of the switch. Meanwhile, the Quinn's nylon housing offers a classic look with its opaque design. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique sound and typing experience, showcasing how housing materials play a crucial role in switch design and functionality. Ultimately, whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound profile offered by nylon or a sharper, crisper sound with polycarbonate and POM, both the Gateron Quinn and the PH Studio Yoel provide distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Quinn is heavier in both aspects. The Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. The difference in weight between the two switches means that the Quinn will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Yoel. However, both switches fall within the range of medium actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of typing comfort and efficiency. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired weight of keystrokes for an optimal typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Quinn. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Yoel to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly deeper travel distance of the Quinn for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its bassy and resonant profile, offering a deep and immersive typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch produces a bright and clacky sound with pronounced resonance upon bottoming out. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Quinn showcasing a deeper tone and the Yoel delivering a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can customize their sound profile by choosing the switch that aligns with their desired typing ambiance.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented, providing users with a refined and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky feel, ensuring smooth and effortless keystrokes. Both switches prioritize comfort and responsiveness, with the Quinn emphasizing tactile feedback while the Yoel focuses on a buttery typing sensation. Depending on individual typing preferences, users can select the switch that best suits their desired tactile experience.
Overall, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Quinn excels in providing a bassy and crisp sound with a snappy and tactile feel, the Yoel stands out for its bright and clacky sound coupled with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Whether users prefer a deep, resonant sound or a sharp, clacky click, both switches offer quality performance and customization options for an enhanced typing experience. Whether choosing the Quinn or the Yoel, users can expect a satisfying and immersive typing experience with each keystroke.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you value a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and deep, resonant sound, then the Quinn switch would 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 Yoel switch might be more fitting for your preferences. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision to ensure that you select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
