Kailh Box Jade vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and PH Studio Yoel offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jade is a clicky switch that provides a medium-heavy typing feel with crisp clicks and tactile bumps, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying sound profile and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Yoel is a linear switch that offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, creating a pronounced resonance when keys are pressed. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Jade and the PH Studio Yoel feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. However, while the materials are the same, the overall sound profiles may differ slightly based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housings, the Kailh Box Jade utilizes a nylon material that promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which creates a unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. The different bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound experience of each switch, providing users with distinct typing sensations.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a split between the qualities each housing material brings to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This demonstrates how subtle variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we can see that they have similar bottom out forces of 60 grams each. However, the Box Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. This means that the Box Jade requires less force to trigger a keystroke but ultimately reaches the same resistance when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Box Jade may be more appealing. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Yoel. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the slight difference in actuation force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which falls in between the traditional 4.0 mm and the shallow 3.0 mm distances. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Gamers may prefer the Yoel switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Box Jade switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Box Jade providing a bit more depth in key press compared to the Yoel.
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 Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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 Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is described as having a high-pitched and crunchy profile, producing sharp and crisp clicks with a sound reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound with a resonant quality that is satisfying and pronounced, especially when keys reach their bottom-out point. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Box Jade providing a more tactile and clicky experience while the Yoel delivers a bright and clacky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump that is not overwhelming but provides a noticeable feedback. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is noted for its creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding across the keys effortlessly. While the Box Jade focuses on tactile feedback and medium-heavy actuation force, the Yoel prioritizes a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile and a smooth and buttery typing sensation, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is the perfect choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience with distinct sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the perfect choice for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing a satisfying and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bright and clacky sound profile that envelops your fingertips with each press, the PH Studio Yoel switches are the way to go. Their chewy typing experience and pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point offer a unique sensation while typing. Consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switches and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for.
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