PH Studio Yoel vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Yoel and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the PH Studio Yoel and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both linear switches offering unique features. The PH Studio Yoel, known for its delectably chewy typing experience, provides a bright and clacky profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, ensuring unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise significantly. While the Yoel boasts a more pronounced and vibrant typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° excels in providing a silent and smooth typing experience. 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
53g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Yoel and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. As such, both the Yoel and the Zero Degree 0° offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Yoel utilizes POM for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° features a nylon bottom housing, offering a fuller and rounder sound due to nylon's softer nature. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how different plastics can influence the overall sound and feel of a switch, catering to individual preferences for typing experiences.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the typing experience. While the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the Yoel or the softer nylon of the Zero Degree 0°, each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the overall typing experience, allowing users to choose a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Yoel linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Yoel has a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Zero Degree's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Yoel at 60 grams is heavier than the Zero Degree, which does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that while the Yoel may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, the Zero Degree may result in a lighter typing feel with its lower actuation force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences for typing pressure. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Yoel has a shorter travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. The Yoel's 3.2 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Zero Degree 0° with its 3.6 mm travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experiences.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 PH Studio Yoel linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound with a resonant and satisfying resonance upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on revolutionizing silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, resulting in a sound-absorbing and noise-reducing typing experience. While the specifics of the sound of the Zero Degree 0° are not mentioned, based on the Yoel's innovative characteristics, it can be inferred that the Zero Degree 0° offers a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not specified. However, given its focus on smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, it can be assumed that the Zero Degree 0° offers a similarly smooth typing experience with a focus on comfort and stability.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch excels in providing a clacky and resonant typing experience with a creamy and polished feel, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch stands out for its noise-reducing feature and focus on smoothness and stability. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that whether you prefer a more audible typing experience or a quieter one, as well as a smooth and comfortable feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch based on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Yoel linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preference for sound and key feel. If you prioritize a bright, clacky sound with medium bottom-out force and a creamy, polished typing experience, the Yoel might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent typing experience with a focus on smoothness, stability, and sound absorption, the Zero Degree 0° could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most - whether it's the satisfying feedback and resonance of the Yoel or the innovative design and quiet operation of the Zero Degree 0°.
Mentioned in this article
