KTT Cream Yellow vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow is known for its bouncy and clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing a uniquely resonant audio feedback. On the other hand, Neo White switches offer a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, along with a smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as bouncy and clacky, the Neo White falls under mild and neutral categories. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Haimu Neo White, it is apparent that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to both keyboards. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches suggest that users can expect comparable sound profiles and lighting effects when using either the Cream Yellow or the Neo White.
However, the key point of differentiation between the Cream Yellow and the Neo White lies in their bottom housing materials. While the Cream Yellow employs nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Neo White also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a similar typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, ultimately contributing to a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing materials of the Cream Yellow and Neo White suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the incorporation of different housing materials in the Cream Yellow and the Neo White provides a unique typing experience for users. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings allow for a balance between impact on bottom-out sound and feel, as well as sound when releasing a key. While both switches offer similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their nylon bottom housing materials gives users the opportunity to choose between a deeper, fuller sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound profile based on their personal preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials of the Cream Yellow and Neo White contribute to a customized typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Neo White's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a bottom out force of 58 grams, making them equal in this aspect. The Cream Yellow is lighter in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Neo White's force is unspecified, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Neo White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow more abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance of the Neo White for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and keypress responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 qualities of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow offers a clacky sound profile with a sharp and snappy tone, while the Neo White provides a neutral sound that is moderate and suitable for a variety of preferences. The Cream Yellow's shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to its resonant audio feedback, while the Neo White's use of a Ly stem ensures a smooth actuation for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a crisp and bright sound, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice, but if you seek a more versatile sound option, the Neo White could be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is characterized by its bouncy typing sensation, offering a spring-like feedback that provides a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. On the other hand, the Neo White switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable for most users. While the Cream Yellow's lengthened spring and unique design contribute to its bouncy feel, the Neo White's medium weight and slightly reduced total travel allow for a smooth and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced and lively feel, the Cream Yellow would be the recommendation, but if a gentler typing experience is more appealing, the Neo White may be the preferable choice.
In conclusion, both the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy typing sensation, providing a sharp and lively experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Neo White offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel, making it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a specific sound or feel characteristic in your mechanical keyboard. However, considering their differences, it is important to note that regardless of your choice, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider the following: If you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother actuation and a more mild typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Neo White could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel while typing. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.