Wuque Studio WS Pearl vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Pearl and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl and the PH Studio Yoel offer distinct yet appealing experiences for typists and gamers alike, both categorized as linear switches. The WS Pearl stands out with its innovative use of ball-bearings, which significantly reduce friction, resulting in a keystroke experience that is remarkably smooth and gliding. This smoothness is complemented by a medium-high pitch sound signature that enhances the typing experience without becoming overly distracting. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, crafted by BSUN, presents a unique and chewy typing sensation that envelops the fingers with every press. Its bright and clacky sound profile resonates pleasantly when keys hit the bottom, attracting those who enjoy auditory feedback. While the WS Pearl excels in delivering a futuristic and fluid feel, the Yoel boasts a satisfying tactile sound that can make typing feel alive. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
16mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Wuque Studio WS Pearl and the PH Studio Yoel present distinctive contrasts in their choice of housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The WS Pearl features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. This material allows for enhanced sound absorption, creating a muted and more rounded auditory experience. Conversely, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate facilitates a more resonant sound, making it favorable for producing clearer auditory feedback, particularly when RGB lighting is incorporated, as its translucency accentuates the lighting effects. Thus, while both switches aim to produce satisfying auditory results, they do so through markedly different acoustic qualities stemming from their top housing materials.
On the bottom housing side, both the WS Pearl and the Yoel utilize materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles, albeit in differing ways. The WS Pearl employs a nylon bottom housing, which, like its top counterpart, continues the theme of deeper sound qualities. This pairing reinforces the muted character of the switch, as nylon's soft nature allows for a consistency in sound that is pleasantly deep and full. In contrast, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, which, while offering a deeper sound profile akin to nylon, introduces a unique and more muted tonal quality that creates a different tactile experience. This divergence leads to a richer auditory experience in the WS Pearl, while the Yoel provides a distinctive character that is not quite as pronounced.
When considering the roles of the top and bottom housings in delivering a gratifying typing experience, it's crucial to understand their contributions to overall sound and feel. In the WS Pearl, the combination of nylon in both the top and bottom housings results in a cohesive sound profile that emphasizes depth and fullness, making each keystroke feel well-rounded. On the other hand, the Yoel's combination of polycarbonate and POM brings forth a blend of clarity and moderation, allowing for a unique typing experience that is both crisp when releasing a key and deep upon bottoming out. While the houses differ in material, users can achieve satisfying auditory results through the complementary effects of these materials; the softer nylon ensures a lush experience in the Pearl while the contrasting materials in the Yoel create a diverse auditory palette, ultimately catering to different user preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying user preferences. The WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, while the Yoel requires a heavier 53 grams to register a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out forces are comparable, with the WS Pearl reaching 58 grams and the Yoel at 60 grams. This means that the Pearl switch is generally more suitable for users who favor lighter keys for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, providing a more effortless experience. In contrast, those who enjoy a firmer tactile feedback will likely prefer the Yoel, as its heavier actuation force offers a more substantial push feel that some users may find satisfying. Overall, the WS Pearl is the lighter option, while the Yoel is the heavier choice, making them distinct in terms of user experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, the WS Pearl features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yoel offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Yoel the shorter option, ideal for those who prioritize quicker response times, which can be beneficial for gaming. Conversely, the WS Pearl, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing, offering a sense of depth in each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you favor responsiveness, the Yoel is the better fit; however, if you appreciate a more robust keypress, the WS Pearl is the way to go.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 WS Pearl linear switch is characterized by a medium-high pitched tone that is clean and crisp, contributing to a unique auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch has a bright and clacky sound profile that stands out as sharp and snappy when pressed. The resonance at the bottom-out point adds an immersive and satisfying quality, differentiating it from the more subdued pitch of the WS Pearl. Combining both might lead to a keyboard setup that caters to different auditory preferences, but they maintain distinct sound signatures that cater to different tastes.
When considering feel, the WS Pearl switch boasts an incredibly smooth typing experience, thanks in part to its innovative use of ball-bearings that significantly reduce friction. This results in a surreal and effortless keystroke that many find appealing. Contrastingly, the Yoel switch provides a creamy and polished sensation, attributed to its defined materials and possible factory lubrication. The silky experience envelops your fingertips, making it feel like gliding across the keys. Both switches deliver highly enjoyable tactile experiences, but the WS Pearl excels in ultra-smoothness, while the Yoel focuses on a buttery feel that enhances the typing journey.
In conclusion, while both the Wuque Studio WS Pearl and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches cater to different sensory experiences, they each offer distinctive qualities in sound and feel. The WS Pearl's medium-high pitch and smooth keystroke contrast against the Yoel's bright clacky auditory profile and its creamy, polished feel. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, as they promise different yet enjoyable engagements with every keystroke. Whichever path you choose, both options guarantee a pleasurable typing experience that will elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you value a typing feel that is exceptionally smooth and seek minimal resistance with every keystroke, the WS Pearl is likely your best bet. Its unique ball-bearing design reduces friction, delivering a seamless experience that is perfect for long hours of typing or gaming. However, if you are drawn to a more tactile and rich auditory feedback, the Yoel might be more up your alley. With its delectably chewy feel and bright, clacky sound signature, the Yoel offers an engaging typing experience that can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a little extra resonance and character while they type. Therefore, consider what matters most in your typing experience: smoothness and fluidity with the WS Pearl, or a cozy, enjoyable resistance with the Yoel.
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