KTT Semi Mute vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the KTT Semi Mute and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, it's clear that they offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Semi Mute stands out for its completely silent operation, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute provides a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel, crafted by BSUN, offers a chewy and clacky typing experience that delights the fingertips with each press. Its bright and resonant sound profile adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the typing process. While the Semi Mute excels in creating a muted and buttery typing feel, the Yoel impresses with its creamy and polished keystrokes. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Semi Mute and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. This similarity in top housing material ensures that both switches will provide a similar auditory experience, with a focus on clarity and sharpness in sound.
However, where the two switches differ is in the material of their bottom housing. The Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, like its top housing counterpart, contributes to a sharp and clear sound profile. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. The difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the Semi Mute providing a more resonant sound compared to the Yoel's muted profile.
When considering the overall performance of the switches, it is clear that the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and feel of each switch. While the top housing material of both the Semi Mute and the Yoel is polycarbonate, providing a consistent sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart. The Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a more resonant sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The KTT Semi Mute linear switch and PH Studio Yoel linear switch both fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Semi Mute has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Yoel's higher 53 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Semi Mute requires 58 grams, slightly heavier than the Yoel's 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a balance between a light and heavy feel, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Semi Mute, while those seeking a more robust feel may prefer the Yoel.
Travel distance
The KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Yoel switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute switch. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for quick key presses, the Yoel switch may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a slightly longer travel distance for a more tactile typing experience, the Semi Mute switch could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer different advantages, so choosing the right one will depend on your individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound when keys are pressed, providing a bright and satisfying auditory feedback during typing. The Semi Mute offers a more subdued and gentle sound, while the Yoel delivers a more vibrant and lively typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the calming silence of the Semi Mute or the energizing clackiness of the Yoel.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and gentle keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is known for its creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing a luxurious and refined typing sensation that glides fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, but the Semi Mute emphasizes smoothness and mildness, while the Yoel focuses on a more indulgent and sophisticated typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Semi Mute and PH Studio Yoel linear switches provide users with distinct sound and feel characteristics to enhance their typing experience. The Semi Mute excels in creating a noise-free environment with its muted sound and smooth keystroke feel, perfect for those seeking a calming and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel stands out with its bright and clacky sound profile and creamy, polished feel, offering a more energetic and refined typing sensation. Whether you prefer a tranquil typing atmosphere or a lively and indulgent experience, both switches cater to different preferences and ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a noise-free environment and desires undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel while keeping noise to a minimum. On the other hand, if you prefer a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced, then the PH Studio Yoel linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches should be based on your preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
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