Durock T1 vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock T1 and the PH Studio Yoel offer strikingly different typing experiences. The Durock T1 is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel is a linear switch that offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. While the T1 is described as 'stepped', 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'accented', and 'polished', the Yoel is characterized as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'marbly', 'polished', 'silky', and 'resonant'. Both switches have their unique advantages, with the T1 offering a tactile typing experience and the Yoel providing a smooth linear feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock T1 and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its stiffness, polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material. The T1 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. In contrast, the Yoel incorporates a POM bottom housing, resulting in a unique, deeper sound that is relatively more muted.
The choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. With the T1's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, users can experience a balance of crisp and resonant sound from the top housing and a deeper, fuller sound from the bottom housing. On the other hand, the Yoel's combination of polycarbonate top and POM bottom housing offers a unique sound profile, with a deeper tone and a more muted quality. While both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each keyboard.
In conclusion, the Durock T1 and the PH Studio Yoel both showcase the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sharp and crisp sound profile. However, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The T1's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Yoel's POM bottom housing provides a unique, muted sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in these switches results in distinct typing experiences, catering to users with varying preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock T1 tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. However, the Yoel has a lower actuation force of 53 grams, while the T1's actuation force is not specified. This means that the Yoel switch requires less force to initiate a keystroke but slightly more force to fully press down compared to the T1. The lighter actuation force of the Yoel may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it can reduce fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the T1 may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The T1 has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you opt for the shorter travel distance of the Yoel or the longer travel distance of the T1, you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which is characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, with a bright and percussive tone that is both satisfying and pronounced. The Yoel also features a marbly and resonant sound, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches will provide distinct sound experiences, with the T1 offering a more subdued and balanced profile, while the Yoel delivers a sharper and more resonant sound.
Turning to feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped and accented, providing a moderate bump when pressed without being overwhelming. This switch also offers a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. The Yoel switch also provides a silky sensation, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the T1 providing a more accented and polished feel, while the Yoel delivers a creamy and silky touch.
In conclusion, the Durock T1 tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The T1 provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a mellow sound reminiscent of falling rain, while the Yoel delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. While the T1 offers a stepped and accented feel, the Yoel provides a creamy and polished sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both options guaranteeing a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the key factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the T1 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter actuation force and a chewy typing feel with a bright, clacky sound profile, along with a creamy and polished tactile sensation, the Yoel switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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