TTC Silent Brown vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch with the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it's important to note that both offer unique typing experiences. The Silent Brown provides a comfortable and light-medium level of resistance, with a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile, perfect for those looking for a buttery and polished feel. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, and a pronounced resonance upon bottoming out, making it ideal for those seeking a creamy and clacky sensation. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Silent Brown and the Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to other plastics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Yoel opts for a POM bottom housing for a more muted and unique sound experience.
In terms of sound, the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing will absorb more sound due to its softer nature, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the Yoel's POM bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and more muted sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance in the sound produced when pressing down on the switch and when releasing a key.
Overall, both the Silent Brown and the Yoel offer unique sound profiles thanks to their choice of housing materials. While the polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound, the choice of bottom housing material adds depth and dimension to the typing experience. Whether you prefer a stiffer and more resonant sound like the Silent Brown or a deeper and more muted sound like the Yoel, each switch offers a distinctive typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is lighter at 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch at 53 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Brown is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the Yoel at 60 grams. This means that the Silent Brown requires a lighter initial force to trigger a keypress but will ultimately feel heavier when pressing all the way down compared to the Yoel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Brown, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may prefer the Yoel. Both switches offer a medium level of force overall, but the distribution between actuation force and bottom out force differs slightly, resulting in a unique typing experience for each.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly longer than the PH Studio Yoel linear switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Silent Brown offers a bit more depth compared to the Yoel. If you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the TTC Silent Brown may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more responsive and quicker switch, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch with its shorter travel distance could be the ideal choice for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted typing experience, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a clacky sound profile with a bright and high-pitched resonance, making typing sessions crisp and satisfying. Those who prefer a more subdued sound may lean towards the Silent Brown, while fans of a sharper and more pronounced sound might appreciate the Yoel.
In terms of feel, the Silent Brown switch is often described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Yoel switch is characterized as creamy and polished, providing a silky and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to offer a pleasant and comfortable typing experience, but the Silent Brown focuses more on a seamless and effortless feel, while the Yoel emphasizes a more luxurious and refined touch.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter typing experience and a more subdued tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharper sound profile and a smoother, buttery feel, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities and deliver a comfortable typing experience, so choosing between them depends on personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile and a rounded tactile bump, the Silent Brown may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile and a smoother key travel, the Yoel linear switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing feel and sound profile that best suits your needs.
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