I find it hard to believe that "Hey Jude" was recorded during the making of The White Album. "Hey Jude" is so Beatles - all four in one studio, crisp music and vocals, all done on a grand scale.In contrast, The White Album is low-key, largely acoustic, with all four Beatles doing their portions of songs in separate studios as opposed to together. Can you imagine how The White Album would be if "Hey Jude" was a part of the track list? From what I understand, the song was recorded at Twink Studios, while the rest of the album was done at Abbey Road, maybe that had a part of why "Hey Jude" sounded so different.
In contrast, The White Album is low-key, largely acoustic,
i think it's different too, but why would i care when it doesn't affect my life.
I think the "White Album" songs in their acoustic state sound great.