TTC Brother vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer unique experiences for users. The TTC Brother stands out as a favorite among clicky switches, known for its lightweight design with a breezy actuation of just 37g. It provides a satisfyingly crunchy sound with clear, crisp precision, making it ideal for clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch features a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, offering a smooth and distinctive typing feel. With the rare use of a Ly stem, it ensures a remarkably smooth actuation for a satisfying typing experience. While the Brother switch is characterized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Neo White switch is classified as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and the Haimu Neo White feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite using the same material for the top housing, the overall sound and feel of the switches may vary due to other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and the Haimu Neo White use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbent properties. This results in a more muted and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. By using nylon for the bottom housing, both switches are able to provide a unique typing experience that emphasizes the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the TTC Brother and the Haimu Neo White are made from different materials, the qualities of each housing material play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the keys, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. Despite the differences in materials used, both switches offer a balance of sharpness and depth in sound profiles, creating a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Neo White has an unknown actuation force. However, the Neo White has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams as opposed to the Brother's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Brother switch may provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Neo White switch may offer a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the lighter actuation of the Brother switch being suitable for individuals who prioritize extended typing comfort, and the heavier bottom out force of the Neo White switch appealing to those who seek a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, as both are considered relatively short. However, those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Neo White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Brother providing a more classic clicky sound, while the Neo White offers a quieter and more versatile option.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is characterized as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a low-impact typing experience. Additionally, it features a stepped feel, offering a two-stage tactile sensation that is different from the more pronounced characteristics of other switches. In comparison, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a mild typing experience, with a smooth actuation and slightly reduced total travel. While the Brother switch focuses on ease of use and tactile feedback, the Neo White switch provides a gentler and approachable typing feel that caters to a wider range of users.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Brother switch excels in providing a classic clicky sound and easy-to-press tactile feedback, ideal for users who appreciate a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Neo White switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a smoother and quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different needs in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a light and tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and slightly heavier keystroke with a more moderate sound profile, the Haimu Neo White linear switch could be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so take into account your typing habits and sound preferences when making your decision.
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