TTC Gold Red vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red and Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red is known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, creating a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being ostentatious. On the other hand, the Neo White stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing feel with a smooth actuation thanks to the rare use of a Ly stem. While the Gold Red may appeal to those looking for a polished and subtle switch, the Neo White may attract individuals seeking a satisfying and smooth typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Haimu Neo White are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that feature RGB lighting. The aesthetic and functional benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing are consistent between the two switches.
However, where the switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Gold Red and Neo White both utilize nylon in their bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The differences in the bottom housing material may lead to subtle variations in the typing experience and sound of the switches when pressed.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While both the TTC Gold Red and the Haimu Neo White share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the variation in their nylon bottom housing may result in slightly different typing experiences. Whether it be the impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key from the top housing, the materials used in each component contribute to the overall performance of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it's clear that there are differences in weight between the two. The Gold Red has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Neo White has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams with an unknown actuation force. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Gold Red makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the medium bottom out force of the Neo White provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Gold Red offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Neo White provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Neo White for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who appreciate a more substantial key press may opt for the Gold Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of depth to each keystroke without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of settings and preferences. Both switches offer a moderate sound experience, making them versatile choices for different typing environments.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, with subtle resistance that is polished for a smooth key travel. This results in a refined and comfortable typing feel that is gentle yet satisfying. Similarly, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a mild typing experience, ensuring that the sound and feel are approachable for most users. Both switches maintain a safe middle-ground in terms of feel, making them suitable for a wide range of typing preferences.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience with moderate sound profiles. While the Gold Red switch provides a slightly deeper sound and a polished feel, the Neo White switch offers a neutral sound and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but users can expect similar levels of quality and performance from either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom out force of 50 grams, opt for the Gold Red switch. The buttery smooth feel and snappy sound profile make it a great choice for those who enjoy a softer touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a bottom out force of 58 grams, the Neo White switch may be more suitable for you. The distinctive typing feel and smooth actuation of the Neo White switch offer a different yet satisfying experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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