Gazzew U4 vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew U4 and PH Studio Yoel stand out as popular choices within the enthusiast community. The U4 is a tactile switch celebrated for its sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, providing a quiet typing experience categorized as 'muted', 'low-pitched', and 'sharp'. On the other hand, the Yoel is a linear switch known for its chewy typing feel and bright, clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying resonance upon bottoming out with categories like 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'high-pitched'. Each switch brings its own unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew U4 and the PH Studio Yoel switches have distinct characteristics that set them apart from one another. The Gazzew U4 features a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" for both the top and bottom housing, which results in a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Yoel switch utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. These differences in material lead to contrasting sound profiles, with the U4 offering a softer and deeper tone compared to the Yoel's crisper and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the material used in the housing of a switch can also play a significant role. The Yoel switch's polycarbonate top housing allows for a clear and transparent design, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Gazzew U4's boba plastic blend provides a more opaque appearance, focusing more on delivering a rich sound experience rather than emphasizing visual effects. Despite these aesthetic variances, both switches aim to provide a unique and premium feel to the user through their housing materials.
When it comes to the impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience, the bottom and top housings of a switch can influence different aspects. The bottom housing, whether it be the Gazzew U4's boba plastic blend or the Yoel's POM material, contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing, whether it be polycarbonate or the boba plastic blend, has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding these distinctions can help users decide which switch aligns more with their preferences in terms of sound profile, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the U4 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4 requires 62 grams while the Yoel needs 60 grams, making the Yoel slightly lighter in this aspect. The actuation force of the U4 is on the lower end of the medium spectrum, while the Yoel falls towards the higher end of medium. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the U4 being preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Yoel caters to users who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of weight, providing users with a variety of options based on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the U4 tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The U4 provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Yoel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 Gazzew U4 tactile switch is best known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched sound that is bright and resonant when keys reach the bottom-out point. While the U4 provides a whisper-quiet typing experience, the Yoel delivers a more pronounced and satisfying sound with a touch of resonance. Depending on personal preference, individuals may prefer the muted and low-pitched sound of the U4 or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Yoel for a more immersive auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump that offers a high feedback intensity, providing a distinct and crisp tactile sensation with each keypress. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy sensation of the Yoel switch allows fingertips to effortlessly glide across the keys, melting into each keystroke with ease. The polished finish further enhances the sleek typing experience, providing a refined and smooth feel to the keypresses. Depending on personal preference, individuals may prefer the sharp and intense tactile feedback of the U4 or the smooth and buttery sensation of the Yoel for a more comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The U4 provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, while the Yoel offers a clacky, high-pitched sound with a creamy and silky typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the quieter and sharper tactile experience of the U4 or the more pronounced and smoother typing sensation of the Yoel. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, a sharp tactile bump, and a plush bottom-out sensation, then the Gazzew U4 switch would be the ideal choice for you. The U4 provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer quieter switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, a chewy typing experience, and a bright and clacky sound profile, then the PH Studio Yoel switch would be more suited to your preferences. The Yoel offers a creamy and silky typing feel, perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize tactile feedback or linear smoothness, as well as your preference for sound and feel.
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