Kailh Box White V2 vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Haimu Neo White presents an interesting juxtaposition of tactile feedback and typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its clicky nature, delivering a satisfying audible click and pronounced tactile feedback that makes it an appealing option for typists who enjoy a more engaging and responsive feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White offers a linear switch experience, characterized by a smooth and consistent keystroke with a medium weight and slightly reduced travel distance, making it ideal for users who prefer a quieter and more fluid typing experience. While each switch has its unique advantages—be it the tactile excitement of the Box White V2 or the seamless feedback of the Neo White—pickers of keyboards will likely find themselves drawn to one or the other based on their personal typing style and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and Haimu Neo White switches reveal notable similarities, particularly in their construction. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Furthermore, the translucence of the polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both switches. This commonality in the top housing means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when engaged in typist activities, contributing to harmonized sound performance across both switch types.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housing materials, the comparisons remain consistent. Both the Kailh Box White V2 and Haimu Neo White switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon's softer composition results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to stiffer alternatives. By absorbing sound more effectively, nylon helps to produce a duller and rounder auditory experience, particularly noticeable when bottoming out the switch. Despite the differences in brands and specific models, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that typists will experience a similar tactile sensation alongside a consistent sound profile for both switches when pressed.
Ultimately, while the Kailh Box White V2 and Haimu Neo White switches feature different branding and specific design nuances, their shared materials play a crucial role in delivering a unified typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing contributes to bright and vibrant sound characteristics, while the nylon bottom housing anchors those sounds with a full, enriched resonance. Users of either switch can expect to derive similar acoustic and tactile outcomes, making them viable options for those who prioritize both sound quality and aesthetic versatility in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more comfortable option for those who type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White lacks a specified actuation force, but it does have a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. This suggests that it provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a firmer feel. Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Haimu Neo White, which is heavier and potentially offers a more robust tactile sensation. Thus, those seeking a lighter touch would lean towards the Box White V2, while users who favor a more pronounced resistance might opt for the Neo White switch.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and overall key feel between the two switches, making them equally responsive in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
The Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Haimu Neo White switches, the Box White V2 is renowned for its crisp and pronounced audible click, giving each keystroke a distinct auditory feedback that keyboard enthusiasts often appreciate. This characteristic clearly communicates each action taken, contributing to an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Neo White presents a more neutral sound profile, which doesn't draw too much attention. Its moderate actuation force results in a sound that is suitable for a variety of environments, making it less disruptive in shared spaces while still providing the satisfaction of a mechanical switch.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a tactile feedback that is quite pronounced with its click mechanism, ensuring that typists can feel the actuation clearly. The tactile bump serves to guide users through their typing, making it ideal for those who prefer feedback while they type. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a mild typing experience characterized by a smooth actuation due to its Ly stem. This results in a gentler keystroke feel, which can be more accommodating for those who enjoy a softer touch without the pronounced tactile feedback of clicky switches. The Neo White, therefore, caters to those who prefer a softer and smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White V2 and Haimu Neo White switches each present distinctive qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Box White V2 excels in sound with its crisp, clicky response, appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback, while the Neo White offers a more neutral sound paired with a smooth feel that is mild and gentle. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether one prioritizes the audible click and tactile feedback or prefers a more subdued and softer typing experience. Both options provide unique benefits that will yield satisfying results depending on personal preference and usage context.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy audible feedback and tactile sensations while typing, the Box White V2 is an excellent candidate. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without significant fatigue, and the crisp clicking sound can add an engaging auditory experience, particularly if you're working alone or in a private space. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more controlled typing experience, especially if you're typing for extended periods or engaging in fast-paced gaming, the Haimu Neo White with its medium 58 grams bottom-out force and exceptionally smooth actuation due to its unique Ly stem may be a better fit. The Neo White's neutral sound profile and mild feel create a versatile typing environment that caters to both beginners and seasoned typists alike, making it ideal for mixed-use scenarios, whether at home or in a professional setting. Therefore, consider your specific typing style and environment when making your final decision, as both switches offer distinct advantages that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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