HMX Xinhai vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX Xinhai and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are excited to showcase two distinct mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Xinhai and the PH Studio Yoel, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Xinhai boasts a unique PA12 top housing and a POM stem for a soft acoustics profile and crisp, higher-pitched resonance. On the other hand, the Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile. While the Xinhai is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy', the Yoel offers a wide range of categorizations such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
37g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Both the HMX Xinhai and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches featuring clear housing for RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing material suggest that both keyboards will produce similar sound profiles and aesthetic appeal when it comes to key presses and lighting effects.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the HMX Xinhai features a nylon bottom housing while the PH Studio Yoel uses a POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings create a unique and pleasing sound on the deeper side, albeit relatively more muted compared to nylon. The differences in bottom housing materials between the two keyboards indicate that there may be variations in the sound produced when typing on the switches.
In terms of tactile experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. The HMX Xinhai's nylon bottom housing will elicit a different tactile sensation compared to the PH Studio Yoel's POM bottom housing. Meanwhile, the top housing material will contribute more to the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both keyboards ensures a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal during key presses and RGB lighting effects.
Weight
The HMX Xinhai linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. The Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Xinhai would be the better option, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Yoel offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, so choosing between the two would depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for fast and responsive key presses. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for quicker response times during gameplay. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing, you may find the Yoel switch with its slightly longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai 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 for $3.19.
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
When it comes to the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, both switches are described as clacky, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. While the Xinhai has a higher-pitched resonance with a soft acoustics profile, the Yoel delivers a bright and pronounced resonance with a satisfying clacky profile. If you prefer a cleaner and higher-pitched sound, the Xinhai may be more suitable for you, whereas if you enjoy a bright and clacky sound, the Yoel could be the better choice.
In terms of feel, both the Xinhai and the Yoel switches are described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Xinhai is also noted for its bouncy feedback sensation, providing a spring-like feel with lively keys, while the Yoel is described as polished and silky, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a more bouncy and elastic typing experience, the Xinhai may suit you better, while if you are looking for a sleek and refined feel, the Yoel could be the ideal option.
Overall, both the HMX Xinhai and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a softer acoustics profile and bouncy feedback or a bright and pronounced resonance with a polished and silky feel, both switches deliver a top-notch typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Xinhai and the Yoel will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Xinhai linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a switch with a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp sound, the Xinhai may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force that delivers a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for the feel and sound of the switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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