HMX Jelly vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence the typing experience. Two popular linear switches competing for the affections of enthusiasts are the HMX Jelly and the PH Studio Yoel. The Jelly switch stands out for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, offering a super smooth keystroke thanks to high-quality factory lubrication and a lightweight 42g actuation force. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a muted yet satisfying sound along with effortless typing. Conversely, the Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, features a delectably chewy typing feel and a bright, clacky sound profile. Its pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point adds a lively character that could appeal to users looking for a more dynamic auditory experience while typing. Both switches have their unique characteristics and charm, making them suitable for different preferences and use cases. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
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 extended single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and the PH Studio Yoel utilize different housing materials that offer distinct acoustic properties, ultimately influencing the typing experience. The Jelly’s top housing is made of nylon, a classic material known for its softness which absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Yoel features a polycarbonate top housing that is much stiffer, producing a sharper and crisper sound. This fundamental difference shapes the auditory experience when typing on each switch; the Jelly’s nylon creates a rounder, more muted acoustic feedback while the Yoel’s polycarbonate allows for a brighter, more resonant sound. If users prefer a specific auditory feel, understanding these differences can help them make informed choices based on their preferences for sound profiles.
Examining the bottom housings reveals another layer of differentiation. Both the Jelly and the Yoel make use of different materials; it employs nylon for its bottom housing, which aligns with its softer characteristics, reinforcing the deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the Yoel utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) material for its bottom housing. POM is known for creating a unique sound that is slightly more muted yet deep, providing a pleasing auditory experience. The combination of POM’s sturdiness with the polycarbonate top has the potential to create a harmonious blend of both elevated clarity and a rich sound profile. This juxtaposition between the Jelly's nylon and the Yoel's POM allows for varied typing experiences depending solely on the bottom housing's material.
In summary, when the top and bottom housings of these switches are evaluated collectively, both housing materials contribute uniquely to the overall sound profile, albeit in contrasting ways. The softness of both the nylon top and bottom housings in the Jelly allows for a continuous deep sound, while the difference in materials in the Yoel creates a multifaceted auditory experience: the crispness of the polycarbonate combined with the unique sound from the POM creates a complex interplay between the two. Therefore, while users can achieve similar results in terms of sound richness, the means of reaching these results differ significantly between the two switches due to their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Jelly switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a softer touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Yoel switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. This distinction means that typists looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Jelly, while those preferring a heavier feel may find the Yoel more satisfying. Overall, the differences in force cater to varying user preferences regarding typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This difference means that the Jelly offers a more pronounced depth when pressing down on a key, which can provide a more tactile experience for users who prefer a heartier feel. In contrast, the Yoel's shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. Consequently, the Jelly is the longer switch and the Yoel is the shorter one. If you're in favor of responsiveness and speed, the Yoel would be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a deeper actuation may prefer the Jelly. Thus, the differing travel distances cater to differing preferences in typing experience and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly 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 HMX Jelly switch is known for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which delivers a satisfying, thumpy feedback with each keystroke. This quality makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more subdued auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch produces a bright and clacky sound profile that is sharp and snappy, akin to a resonant echo when the keys bottom out. This contrast in sound characteristics means that users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback during their typing sessions may gravitate towards the Yoel, while those looking for a more muted and deeper tone would likely enjoy the Jelly.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is exceptionally smooth, attributed largely to its factory lubrication and lightweight 42g actuation force, which makes it easy to type quickly and with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Yoel switch offers a delectably chewy experience, enhanced by its creamy and silky nature, which gives the sensation of gliding over the keys with each press. The polished finish of the Yoel enhances this smoothness even further, minimizing friction as users navigate through their typing tasks. This means that while the Jelly is very smooth and lightweight, the Yoel aims to provide a uniquely rich tactile experience with its creamy texture, appealing to those who appreciate a touch of vibrancy in their typing.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jelly and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jelly's low-pitched thocky sound and smooth feel may attract those who prioritize a more subdued yet smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Yoel's bright clacky sound and delectably creamy typing experience offer an engaging and lively alternative. Depending on individual preferences regarding sound profile and tactile feedback, users can choose between these two options to create the perfect typing experience for themselves.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and the specific experience you want. If you prefer a lightweight feel with a deep, thocky sound and a smooth typing experience, the Jelly is an excellent choice, especially for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where less finger fatigue can benefit you. Its low actuation force of 42 grams and immersive sound signature make it ideal for those who enjoy a subtle yet satisfying acoustic profile. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more tactile and pronounced feedback with a bit of extra weight, the Yoel's 60-gram bottom-out force and bright, clacky sound deliver a more pronounced auditory experience. The creamy, polished feel of the Yoel caters to those who enjoy a refined touch and pronounced keystrokes. Overall, your choice between these two switches should align with your desired tactile feedback, sound signature, and the overall mood you wish to create while typing or gaming.
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