Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The WS Light Tactile stands out for its smoothness and unmistakable tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch by PH Studio offers a chewy typing feel with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates upon bottoming out. While the WS Light Tactile is easy to press and has a stepped feel, the Yoel is creamy, high-pitched, and polished. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The WS Light Tactile and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which results in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Despite using the same material for the top housing, the two switches may still offer slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as the design and construction of the switch.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The WS Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing that creates a unique, deep, and relatively muted sound. The choice between nylon and POM for the bottom housing can significantly impact the overall sound experience of the switch, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the deeper and more muted sound of POM.
While both switches may share similarities in their top housing material, the WS Light Tactile and the PH Studio Yoel showcase distinct differences in their bottom housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The split between the qualities each housing material brings allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and POM for the bottom housing can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, offering users a range of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, with 45 grams versus 53 grams, respectively. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Light Tactile is still lighter at 50 grams compared to the Yoel's 60 grams. This means that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience overall. Those looking for a switch with a lighter touch may prefer the WS Light Tactile, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial feel may lean towards the Yoel. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the slight differences in force may cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 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 shorter travel distance compared to the WS Light Tactile switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it could impact the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may lean towards the Yoel switch for its quicker response time, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the WS Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a different feel based on the travel distance, so it comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments, whether at home or work, with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying and pronounced typing experience. The Yoel also has a marbly and resonant sound, giving a clean and immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, as the WS Light Tactile offers a more neutral sound while the Yoel provides a more lively and clacky sound.
In terms of feel, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a stepped feel, with a mild tactile bump that offers a two-stage typing experience. It is also easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch offers a creamy and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. The silky sensation of the Yoel switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the WS Light Tactile switch excels in providing a smooth and tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound, coupled with a creamy and polished feel that offers a luxurious typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more neutral sound and easy-to-press feel or a lively sound and silky smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light tactile switch with a smooth and snappy typing experience, the WS Light Tactile from Wuque Studio would be the ideal choice for you. With a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel, these switches are suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a chewy typing experience and a bright, clacky sound profile, the Yoel switch from PH Studio would be more your style. Featuring a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound, along with a creamy, polished, and silky feel, the Yoel switch offers a unique typing sensation for those who enjoy a rich tactile experience. Ultimately, your decision between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
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