Gateron Ink Red vs. Haimu Neo White

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique benefits to users depending on their typing preferences. The Gateron Ink Red is ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style, as it features a lower actuation force and provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The switch has a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile response while typing. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switches offer a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, giving users a distinctive typing feel. The rare use of a Ly stem in the Neo White switches contributes to a remarkably smooth actuation, making keystrokes smoothly satisfying. Both switches have a 'Mild' and 'Neutral' categorization, but differ in terms of sound profile and actuation force. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Haimu Neo White Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$2.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Haimu Neo White offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Neo White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both housings offer a high-pitched sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Neo White may provide a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting.

The bottom housing materials also contribute to the overall typing experience of the switches. The Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing produces a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. The nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Gateron switch.

Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Gateron Ink Red and the Haimu Neo White both offer high-pitched sound profiles, their use of different materials such as INK blend and polycarbonate or nylon results in unique tactile experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon, both switches provide distinct auditory and tactile feedback based on their housing materials.

Weight

The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force with the Ink Red at 60 grams and the Neo White at 58 grams. This means that while the Neo White may have a slightly heavier bottom out force, both switches offer a medium level of resistance overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that the Neo White has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Ink Red. This means that the Neo White offers a slightly shallower key press compared to the Ink Red. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Neo White may be favored by gamers seeking faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Ink Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Gateron Ink Red and Haimu Neo White switches are categorized as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, suitable for various typing contexts. However, the Ink Red is also noted for its chirpy sound, adding a unique acoustic signature to the typing experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, both switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Ink Red is described as silky, mild, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White is characterized as having a mild typing experience, making it approachable and comfortable for most users. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant and satisfying typing experience, especially for those who prefer linear switches with a smoother feel.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Red and Haimu Neo White linear switches offer favorable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Red may have a slightly unique chirpy sound compared to the Neo White's neutral sound profile, both switches provide smooth and effortless typing experiences. Whether you choose the Ink Red for its lower actuation force or the Neo White for its slightly reduced total travel, you can expect similar levels of satisfaction and comfort from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your typing style and preference. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force, smooth keystrokes, and a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a smooth actuation and a distinctive typing feel, the Haimu Neo White switch could be the better option. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, catering to a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Neo White Linear

$2.70 per 10

Learn more