Jwick Taro vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Taro and the PH Studio Yoel. The Taro switch is known for its cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks, while the Yoel switch offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. The Taro switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped', while the Yoel switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. If you prefer a tactile switch with a comfortable typing experience, the Taro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a linear switch with a satisfying and pronounced sound profile, the Yoel could be the perfect fit. 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
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Jwick Taro and the PH Studio Yoel feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches have the same material for their top housing, the Taro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
The differences between the Taro and Yoel's housing materials extend beyond just their top and bottom housings. While the use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in similar sound profiles for both switches, the Taro's nylon bottom housing and the Yoel's POM bottom housing offer distinct sound qualities. The nylon bottom housing of the Taro creates a duller and rounder sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Yoel produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted. These varying sound profiles showcase how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Jwick Taro and PH Studio Yoel may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Taro's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing and POM bottom housing provide a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials, highlighting the importance of considering not just the switch design, but also the materials used in construction.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch reveals some key differences. The actuation force of the Taro is None grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams. On the other hand, the Taro has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is heavier than the Yoel's 60 grams. This means that the Taro requires a stronger push to trigger a keystroke but offers a slightly softer bottoming out experience compared to the Yoel. In terms of weight, the Taro is heavier overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel is lighter, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it longer than the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. While both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Taro provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Yoel. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Yoel with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Taro. Ultimately, both switches offer varying levels of tactility and responsiveness to suit different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it versatile for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch presents a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that is bright and sharp. When keys reach the bottom-out point, there is a resonant and satisfying sound that adds to the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery and possibly stepped, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation. The switch provides a seamless keystroke experience that is effortless and consistent. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized as creamy, polished, and silky. It offers a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness in key travel. Typing on these switches feels like gliding fingertips effortlessly across the keys.
Overall, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is more subdued and cozy in both sound and feel, providing a comfortable typing experience with moderate tactility and a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a chewy and resonant typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a cozy typing experience, the Jwick Taro switch is the way to go. The snappy tactility and acute clacks make for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a delectably chewy typing sensation, the PH Studio Yoel switch is the perfect choice. The bright and clacky sound profile, along with the smooth key travel, provides a unique typing experience that you might enjoy. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch and the specific tactile and sound characteristics that appeal to you the most. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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