Outemu Yellow Silver vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Yellow Silver and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Yellow Silver and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, the decision may ultimately come down to personal preference. The Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is ideal for gamers and typists seeking a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, offering speediness and responsiveness. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a unique typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced. While the Yoel switch may appeal to those looking for a more tactile and resonant typing experience, the Yellow Silver switch caters to users who prioritize a smooth and silent operation. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Yellow Silver and PH Studio Yoel switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature, the Outemu Yellow Silver uses a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, creating a more muted and unique sound experience on the deeper side.
Although both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. With the Outemu Yellow Silver featuring a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, contrasted with the PH Studio Yoel's POM bottom housing for a more muted sound. When typing on the Outemu Yellow Silver, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more pronounced due to the qualities of the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the PH Studio Yoel will provide a different experience, with the bottom housing material playing a crucial role in the sound produced when letting go of a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing experience. Both the Outemu Yellow Silver and PH Studio Yoel switches showcase the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharp and resonant sound. However, the difference in bottom housing materials - nylon for the Yellow Silver and POM for the Yoel - leads to distinct sound profiles, with the former providing a deeper sound and the latter offering a more muted experience. Ultimately, understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound and feel of a switch can help in choosing the right switch for individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Yellow Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, whereas the Yoel is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Yellow Silver provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. In contrast, the Yoel offers a slightly more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a good balance between a light touch and a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is clear that the Yellow Silver has a longer travel distance at 4mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2mm. The traditional travel distance is typically around 4mm, making the Yellow Silver more aligned with the standard expectation. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Yoel for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provides a bright and clacky sound that is punctuated by a satisfying resonance when keys are pressed. The Yoel switch's sound is more pronounced and distinctive compared to the more subtle sound of the Yellow Silver switch. Both switches will deliver a unique auditory experience, with the Yellow Silver offering a more balanced sound, while the Yoel provides a more dynamic and resonant sound profile.
When it comes to feel, there is no available information for the Outemu Yellow Silver switch. However, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as offering a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. This suggests that the Yoel switch provides a smooth and refined keypress, allowing for effortless typing with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. While the feel of the Yellow Silver switch remains unknown, the descriptions of the Yoel switch indicate that it offers a tactile and luxurious typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Yellow Silver switch is favored for its neutral sound profile and light actuation force, making it suitable for both gamers and typists looking for speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Yoel switch stands out for its bright and clacky sound profile, as well as its creamy and silky typing feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different user preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Yellow Silver or the Yoel switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness with a light actuation force and neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a satisfying and pronounced typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. We recommend trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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