HMX Xinhai (Heavy) vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that perfectly caters to your typing preferences, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the PH Studio Yoel offer two enticing options, both classified as linear switches but each delivering a unique experience. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stands out with its robust construction, featuring a PA12 top housing that promotes a softer acoustic profile complemented by a POM stem, resulting in a distinctively crisp, high-pitched resonance. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate subtle sophistication and precise performance, making it a solid choice for typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a delectably chewy typing experience that envelops your fingertips with every keystroke. With its bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel provides an engaging auditory feedback that resonates at the bottom-out point, adding a satisfying layer to the typing experience. While both switches aim to enhance your keyboard feel and sound, they cater to different sensory preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the PH Studio Yoel, the most striking difference lies in the choice of top housing materials. The Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes nylon, a classic choice known for its softer texture, which tends to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller auditory experience. In contrast, the Yoel employs polycarbonate as its top housing material, which is typically stiffer and provides a sharper, crisper sound profile. This distinction in materials results in fundamentally different acoustic outputs from both switches, with nylon creating a more muted sound and polycarbonate enhancing clarity and resonance. For users who prioritize a rich and rounded sound, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be preferable, while those who appreciate a clear and distinct auditory response may lean towards the Yoel.
Moving to the bottom housing, the comparative characteristics continue to diverge further. The Xinhai (Heavy) maintains consistency with nylon, mirroring the benefits of its top housing. This results in a deeper, more resonant sound experience, blending seamlessly with the upper portion of the switch. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which is renowned for producing a unique auditory profile that leans toward the muted end of the spectrum. Though both switches aim for complementary sound experiences, the Xinhai’s nylon bottom housing creates a fuller sound, while the Yoel’s POM introduces a distinct muted quality, affecting the overall feel when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and PH Studio Yoel feature contrasting materials in their housings, it is possible for users to achieve relatively similar results through nuanced use and adaptation. If a user values characteristics that come from the combination of both top and bottom materials, they can adjust their expectations accordingly. For example, the unique traits of the Xinhai (Heavy) may be softened by its use of nylon, while the Yoel can be tuned to reach deeper notes despite its inherent clarity from polycarbonate and POM. This interplay between top and bottom housing materials affects the user experience, allowing enthusiasts to choose the switch based on their preferred balance between sound depth and clarity.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, both provide a medium typing experience, but they have slight differences in force requirements. The Xinhai (Heavy) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Yoel, which features an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while both switches are relatively close in terms of overall typing experience, the Xinhai requires a bit more force to both actuate and bottom out. For users who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Yoel might be the more attractive option. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel might gravitate towards the Xinhai. Overall, while both switches provide similar results, the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to varying preferences in typist feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we find that the Xinhai features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yoel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Xinhai switch is designed for a deeper feel when pressed, which can offer a more substantial tactile experience for those who prefer a hearty depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Yoel's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and users who favor quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches revolves around personal preference: those seeking a more pronounced feedback may opt for the Xinhai, whereas those who prioritize speed and efficiency would likely favor the Yoel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a softer acoustic profile due to its unique PA12 top housing, which allows for a more muted and refined sound compared to other switches. This results in a typing experience that is less intrusive, allowing for focused work without overwhelming auditory feedback. While the Xinhai embodies a crisp and higher-pitched resonance from its POM stem, the PH Studio Yoel switch presents a distinctly brighter and clackier auditory profile. The Yoel’s sound is characterized by a sharp, snappy quality that is both satisfying and pronounced, especially when keys bottom out, creating an engaging auditory experience that definitely appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound.
When considering the feel of the two switches, the Xinhai (Heavy) is distinguished by its refined operation that likely provides a thoughtfully tuned feedback, allowing for smooth key travel. However, specific qualities are not detailed, leaving some uncertainty in comparison. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is noted for its delectably chewy typing experience, enveloping the fingertips with every press. This switch excels in offering a creamy, polished, and silky sensation, which enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and allowing for effortless keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches provide unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Xinhai emphasizes a softer sound profile with potentially refined feedback, making it suitable for those who prefer a more subdued acoustic environment. Meanwhile, the Yoel impresses with its bright and clacky sound, enhanced feel characterized by its creamy and silky operation. While each switch excels in its own domain, the choice ultimately rests on whether one prefers a quieter, more sophisticated typing experience or a bright and tactile response with a pronounced auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a typing experience that combines subtle sophistication with a distinctively crisp sound, the Xinhai (Heavy) might be your best option. Its top housing contributes to softer acoustics while providing a medium actuation force of 62.5 grams. This switch is well-suited for those who appreciate a sound profile that is more refined and less pronounced than some of its clackier counterparts. On the other hand, if you lean towards a typing experience that is both satisfying and bright, the Yoel would be an excellent choice. With a slightly lighter actuation force of 60 grams, the Yoel offers a delectably chewy feel that pairs well with its clacky, high-pitched sound profile. This makes it ideal for users who enjoy a more dynamic auditory and tactile experience. In essence, if you want a balance of classic refinement, go for the Xinhai (Heavy); if you're seeking playful engagement and audible feedback, the Yoel is the way to go.
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