HMX SU vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX SU and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the nuances of both feel and sound. The HMX SU, known for its full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, provides a typing experience characterized by a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more muted acoustic feedback while typing. Its linear action offers smooth keystrokes that many find ideal for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel manufactured by BSUN stands out with its delectably chewy typing experience and bright, clacky sound profile. This switch creates an engaging auditory feedback that resonates with each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience. Both switches have their unique strengths—while the SU focuses on a more understated sound for those who favor tranquility, the Yoel delivers a lively and satisfying auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
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 single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX SU and the PH Studio Yoel switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, resulting in varied acoustic profiles that cater to different typing experiences. The HMX SU features a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's relatively softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound waves and generates a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel employs a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity, creating a more resonant auditory experience. Consequently, while both switches offer unique auditory characteristics based on their materials, the nylon of the SU tends to favor a warmer sound, whereas the polycarbonate of the Yoel delivers brightness and definition.
Examining the bottom housing materials, the differences are just as pronounced. The HMX SU incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the same deeper, fuller sound that is present in its top housing. Nylon's sound absorption properties continue to play a role here, creating a cohesive acoustic signature across the switch. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel features a POM bottom housing that distinguishes itself by producing a unique, deeper sound, albeit not as pronounced as nylon. The muted qualities of POM work in tandem with the polycarbonate top housing to yield a balanced auditory experience. Hence, while both switches utilize materials that yield lower tonal profiles, the textures and resonances differ, ultimately affecting how users perceive sound and feel during typing.
When considering the combined effects of the different housing materials, it's important to note that both switches still deliver valuable typing experiences through their respective designs. If users prefer the effects of the nylon material found in the HMX SU, they can expect a natural transition into typographic rhythm that highlights soft fullness in sound. Conversely, typing on the PH Studio Yoel with its polycarbonate and POM combination promises clarity and a discerning sound profile. While the specific auditory qualities can certainly delineate each switch's character, users might find similarities in the overall typing dynamics, as each switch ultimately aims to blend tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction, although through distinct sonic paths.
Weight
When comparing the HMX SU linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that can influence user preference. The HMX SU has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Yoel's actuation force of 53 grams, making the SU more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, where less effort is beneficial. Additionally, the bottom out force of the SU is 50 grams, which is also lighter than the Yoel's bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that those who prefer a more responsive and less taxing typing feel would gravitate towards the HMX SU. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel's medium actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who favor a heavier switch for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the differences in force requirements highlight the SU as the lighter option and the Yoel as the heavier one, catering to distinct preferences in keyboard feel and typing comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX SU linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, noticeable differences emerge. The HMX SU has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel measures at a shorter 3.2 mm. This makes the Yoel switch the clearer choice for those who favor responsiveness, as its reduced travel distance allows for quicker actuation, catering particularly to gamers who appreciate rapid key presses. Conversely, the HMX SU, with its greater travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile experience that some users prefer for a deeper, more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and depth, with the Yoel offering the shorter distance and the SU providing the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 HMX SU linear switch features a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, creating a more muted auditory experience compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. In contrast, the Yoel is characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile, which is sharp and percussive when the keys bottom out. This pronounced resonance gives the Yoel a more engaging acoustic presence, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a vivid typing sound. While the SU provides a more understated and gentle auditory feedback, the Yoel offers a lively and crisp sound that energizes the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX SU linear switch lacks a specific description. However, the PH Studio Yoel switch is celebrated for its delectably chewy typing experience, with descriptors like creamy, polished, and silky alluding to a luxurious tactile sensation. The Yoel offers a smooth and buttery touch, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This meticulous design results in an incredibly refined typing experience that minimizes resistance and friction, providing an immersive encounter with every keystroke. Although the SU's tactile characteristics aren't detailed here, the Yoel's remarkable feel sets a high bar for tactile satisfaction.
In conclusion, while the HMX SU switch offers a subtle and deep sound profile with unspecified feeling characteristics, the PH Studio Yoel switch stands out for its bright and clacky auditory feedback, accompanied by a smooth and refined tactile experience. Users seeking a more muted and serene sound might gravitate towards the SU, while those desiring a pronounced and lively typing experience would likely favor the Yoel. Both switches contribute to distinct user experiences, ultimately reflecting personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between HMX SU linear switches and PH Studio Yoel linear switches comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile, as well as the context of your use. If you prefer a lighter push with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the HMX SU is ideal for rapid typing and gaming where speed is a priority. Its full PA12 housing combined with a T5 stem produces a subtle, deep sound, making it an excellent option for an office environment or shared spaces where you want to minimize noise disruption. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, provides a more deliberate and tactile impression, which is perfect if you enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each keypress. The Yoel's bright and clacky sound profile creates an engaging auditory experience, which may suit individuals who favor a more dynamic typing environment or enjoy the satisfying resonance of every keystroke. Thus, consider the HMX SU if you prioritize lightness and a muted sound experience, while the Yoel is the way to go if you seek a combination of a rich and lively feel with a more substantial auditory presence.
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