Huano Elf vs. Haimu Neo White

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for an optimal typing experience, two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the Huano Elf and the Haimu Neo White. The Elf switches are recognized for their POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and provides a deep sound signature complemented by a medium-light feel. This makes them a great choice for users seeking a satisfying typing experience with a mix of feedback and smoothness. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White sets itself apart with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, offering a unique typing feel. The incorporation of a rare Ly stem allows for remarkably smooth actuation, making every keystroke feel effortless. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you prioritize acoustic depth and a light touch with the Elf or a smoother actuation with the Neo White—but ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing style and requirements. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

Huano Elf Linear

Haimu Neo White Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housings of the Huano Elf and the Haimu Neo White, distinct differences can be observed, particularly in their top housings. The Elf utilizes POK material, known for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. POK's resilience, being 14 times stronger than POM and offering superior shock resistance, contributes to a switch that is not only smooth in operation but also robust in terms of performance over time. In contrast, the Neo White employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which provides a sharper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material’s translucency further enhances its aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, offering a different tactile and auditory experience.

Despite their differences in the top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, both utilizing nylon. This classic material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The softness of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, which results in a sound that is rounder and more muted. Consequently, while the Huano Elf may deliver a smooth and clacky experience thanks to its POK material, the Haimu Neo White provides a clearer and crisper sound from its polycarbonate top, with both achieving a satisfying auditory profile through the nylon bottom housing.

The combination of different top housing materials and identical bottom housings demonstrates how the qualities of each can harmonize to affect the overall switch experience. While the POK top of the Elf might offer a more muted auditory feedback when you bottom out, the polycarbonate top of the Neo White emphasizes sharper sounds with more resonance during key release. Ultimately, the interplay of these materials means that despite their differences, both the Huano Elf and the Haimu Neo White can deliver high-quality typing experiences characterized by their unique qualities, resulting in switches that can cater to varied user preferences in both feel and sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, we see that the Elf has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Neo White's actuation force is unknown. The bottom out force for the Neo White is 58 grams, whereas the Elf’s bottom out force is not available. This indicates that the Huano Elf's actuation force is lighter and may appeal to those looking for a keypad that is easier to press, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White, with a heavier bottom out force, is likely to provide a more substantial feel during use, which may attract users seeking a firmer typing experience. Since the actuation force of the Haimu Neo White is unknown, it’s difficult to draw definitive conclusions about comparative typing experiences; however, if both switches had similar actuation forces, users would likely experience comparable results in terms of how they engage with the keyboard. Overall, the Huano Elf appears to be the lighter option, while the Haimu Neo White stands out with its heavier bottom out force.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Elf linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means users will experience similar keypress depths when activating the switches. With both switches operating at this identical distance, they are expected to provide comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness, making them suitable for those who prefer a consistent keystroke experience. As a result, whether using the Elf or the Neo White, typists and gamers alike can anticipate a unified feel in their key presses, enhancing the overall typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Elf switch is known for delivering a deep sound signature thanks to its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and provides a fuller auditory experience. This characteristic results in a sound profile that can be more satisfying to the ears while typing, especially for those who appreciate a richer tone. In comparison, the Haimu Neo White switch has a more neutral sound profile, which maintains a moderate actuation force requirement. This neutral quality makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether for home use or office settings, as it won't disturb those around you while still providing a satisfying audio feedback.

In terms of feel, the Elf switch offers a medium-light typing experience, contributing to a satisfying sensation that balances both ease of key press and feedback. Its design seems to aim for a well-rounded and enjoyable typing experience without being overly strenuous. On the other hand, the Neo White switch features a medium weight and slightly reduced travel distance, which leads to a smooth typing feel. The use of the Ly stem enhances actuation smoothness and gives a distinct experience with each keystroke, making it less aggressive and more pleasurable for prolonged typing sessions.

Overall, both the Huano Elf and Haimu Neo White switches cater to different preferences while still delivering an enjoyable typing experience. If you're looking for a deeper sound signature and a medium-light feel, the Elf may be your best option. Conversely, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a smooth actuation and medium weight, the Neo White could be the better choice. Ultimately, while they offer different subjective qualities, both switches can provide satisfactory results depending on individual priorities in sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider the typing experience and sound signature you prefer. If you're someone who enjoys a lighter, more responsive key feel with enhanced acoustics, the Elf may be your best choice, thanks to its unique POK top housing that delivers a deep sound signature and a medium-light feel. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize sound quality and a satisfying typing experience without needing a heavier actuation force. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a moderate actuation force and a smooth, gentle typing feel, the Neo White might be more suitable for you. Its medium weight and slightly reduced travel offer a balanced typing experience that is versatile enough for both work and gaming. The neutral sound profile also makes it a great option for users who want a switch that blends well in shared spaces or at home. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, so consider how each switch aligns with your intended use.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Neo White Linear

$2.70 per 10

Learn more