Outemu Blue Jade vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, and the PH Studio Yoel, a linear switch, offer distinct typing experiences. The Blue Jade is revered for its distinct clicky feedback, providing a tactile and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel is known for its creamy and chewy feel, with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates with each key press. While the Blue Jade caters to those who enjoy the audible click with each keystroke, the Yoel appeals to users seeking a smoother and more polished 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
50g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the PH Studio Yoel switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Blue Jade's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, as the stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon housing of the Blue Jade caters more to a muted and deeper sound experience, whereas the polycarbonate housing of the Yoel emphasizes clarity and sharpness.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the contrast between the Outemu Blue Jade's nylon and the PH Studio Yoel's POM is evident. The Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing continues the trend of producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing, due to its soft plastic properties absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, offering a different acoustic experience compared to the Blue Jade. Despite both bottom housing materials contributing to the overall sound profile of the switches, the differences in their compositions result in distinct sound characteristics.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing material on the sound profile of a switch can vary based on whether it is used in the top or bottom housing. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material will predominantly affect the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between the nylon and polycarbonate top housings in the Blue Jade and Yoel switches, respectively, as well as the nylon and POM bottom housings, will ultimately determine the overall sound experience that users can expect from each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium weight category. The Blue Jade has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Jade is heavier at 65 grams, while the Yoel is lighter at 60 grams. This means that the Blue Jade will provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring a bit more force to press all the way down, while the Yoel offers a slightly lighter touch overall. Both switches offer a balanced typing experience, with the Blue Jade leaning towards a heavier feel, and the Yoel providing a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is 4mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm. This makes the Yoel switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Blue Jade. The Blue Jade with its 4mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the Yoel switch with its 3.2mm distance is shallower. Those who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Yoel switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may prefer the Blue Jade. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences.
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 Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and PH Studio Yoel linear switch each have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Blue Jade switch is known for its clicky tactile feedback, providing a satisfying audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the Yoel switch is described as having a bright and clacky sound profile, giving a pronounced and satisfying resonance when keys reach the bottom-out point. In terms of feel, the Blue Jade's tactile feedback offers a distinct response during typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the Yoel switch is known for providing a creamy and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation for a more effortless keystroke.
Despite their differences in sound and feel, both switches excel in providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the clicky feedback of the Blue Jade or the smooth sensation of the Yoel, both switches are designed to cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a satisfying and pronounced clicky sound with medium-heavy bottom out force, the Blue Jade may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a bright, clacky sound profile, the Yoel linear switch might be more to your liking. Consider your preferences for sound and feel when making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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