Outemu Crystal vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it's important to take note of their unique characteristics. The Crystal switch is praised for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a distinctive linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Neo White switch offers a slightly reduced total travel and a smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem, resulting in a satisfying typing feel. While the Crystal switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Neo White switch is described 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Haimu Neo White switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This stiffness of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The Crystal switch employs polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, maintaining consistency in sound profile, while the Neo White utilizes nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Neo White produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the Outemu Crystal and the Haimu Neo White switches share similar sound profiles attributed to their common polycarbonate top housing. Both switches produce a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound quality, enhancing the overall typing experience. The translucent nature of polycarbonate not only contributes to the sound profile but also offers aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, where the switches diverge is in the impact of the housing materials on the typing feel. The bottom housing material, be it polycarbonate in the Crystal or nylon in the Neo White, significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel experienced when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing the nuances in typing experiences offered by each switch.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal and the Haimu Neo White switches both feature polycarbonate top housings that provide a sharp and resonant sound profile suitable for RGB lighting setups, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Crystal maintains consistency with polycarbonate in the bottom housing, enhancing the overall sound experience with its stiffness, while the Neo White opts for nylon to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials influence the typing feel and bottom-out sound of each switch, showcasing the unique qualities each housing material brings to the overall typing experience. Whether utilizing the Crystal or the Neo White, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is clear that there are some distinct differences. The Outemu Crystal has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Neo White, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal is 55 grams, slightly lighter than the 58 grams required for the Haimu Neo White. This means that the Outemu Crystal offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Crystal may be the more suitable option. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Haimu Neo White with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Neo White has a shorter travel distance than the Crystal. With a 0.4 mm difference between them, the Crystal offers a slightly longer keypress experience compared to the Neo White. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Neo White with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Crystal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70.
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 Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral sound that is suitable for various environments and users. When it comes to feel, the Crystal switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Neo White switch offers a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users. Overall, the Outemu Crystal switch provides an elastic feel with medium-light weight, while the Haimu Neo White switch offers a distinctive typing experience with slightly reduced total travel and a smooth actuation. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard switch world.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a unique linear typing feel and a chirpy, high-pitched sound profile, then the Outemu Crystal switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a smooth actuation and a more neutral sound profile, then the Haimu Neo White switch would be the better option. Consider your preferences in terms of weight, sound, and feel to make the decision that best fits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences and needs in the mechanical keyboard community.
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