Keygeek Keylin vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, finding the right fit for your typing style can vastly enhance your overall experience. The Keygeek Keylin, recognized for its innovative mold design, delivers a premium typing experience characterized by smoothness and rich acoustics, making it an attractive option for those who value a satisfying and immersive keystroke. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White offers a unique typing sensation with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, combining a smooth actuation with a distinctive feel. The rare Ly stem used in the Neo White adds to its appeal, providing a delightful responsiveness that many typists and gamers appreciate. While both switches are linear and designed for fluid motion, they cater to slightly different preferences in terms of feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Haimu Neo White switches, one can discern notable differences in sound profile and functional attributes. The Keygeek Keylin features a nylon top housing, which is favored for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than its stiffer counterparts, resulting in a mellow typing experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder auditory output. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White employs a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate delivers a clearer and more resonant sound when keys are released, making it well-suited for those who prefer a more acutely pronounced auditory feedback.
On the bottom housing front, both the Keygeek Keylin and the Haimu Neo White utilize nylon, which means they share a similar sound signature when it comes to typing feel and bottom-out sound. The nylon bottom housing helps to enhance the deeper, fuller sound profile associated with the Keylin, but it also provides a consistent user experience in the Neo White. The use of nylon in both switches ensures that, regardless of the differing top housings, the bottom housing's acoustical properties will yield a rich and enveloping sound with a softer feel when the key is fully pressed down. Therefore, users can expect a similar bottom-out experience across both switches, emphasizing the characteristics of the nylon material.
Ultimately, the distinction between the Keylin and Neo White primarily lies in their top housing, which significantly influences the overall sound profile and typing experience. For users interested in RGB lighting, the clear polycarbonate top of the Neo White not only shines aesthetically but also accentuates the sharper sound that accompanies each keystroke. Conversely, the nylon top of the Keygeek Keylin enhances a softer auditory experience suited for those who prefer a more subdued sound while typing. When considering these materials collectively, users can anticipate a multifaceted typing experience that highlights both the softness of the nylon in the bottom housing and the unique acoustic properties of each top housing material.
Weight
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions due to its ease of activation. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as medium in weight. This difference suggests that the Keylin is the lighter option overall, as its actuation force is significantly lower, allowing users to type with less effort. The Neo White, with its heavier bottom out force, would provide a more substantial tactile experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Since the actuation force for the Neo White is unknown, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison in that aspect. However, if it were to be comparable or higher than 38 grams, the Neo White would ultimately be the heavier switch when considering both actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, users looking for a less strenuous typing experience may favor the Keylin, while those wanting a firmer touch might lean towards the Neo White.
Travel distance
Both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This identical travel distance means that users can expect a similar feel and response when pressing down on the keys equipped with either switch. The consistency in travel distance allows for a comparable typing experience, making both switches suitable for those who prefer a uniform key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch is characterized by its rich acoustics, promising a more resonant typing experience that may appeal to users who enjoy a full auditory response while typing. This switch's sound quality enhances the overall experience, providing a level of satisfaction that is typically praised among its users. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch features a neutral sound profile, which balances moderate actuation force and sound level. This means the Neo White is versatile, making it suitable for various environments, from quiet workspaces to gaming setups, ensuring that it can fit in seamlessly without being overly intrusive.
In terms of feel, the Keylin linear switch delivers exceptional smoothness attributed to its new mold design, which typically results in a plush and satisfying keystroke that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seek. The experience of bottoming out or actuating with these switches is likely to feel premium and refined. On the other hand, the Neo White switch exhibits a mild typing feel that offers a gentle and approachable experience. Its slightly reduced travel distance, along with the uncommon Ly stem, contributes to a smooth actuation, making the typing sensation both pleasant and forgiving, suitable for a wide range of users from novices to seasoned typists.
In summary, while the Keygeek Keylin linear switch may excel in sound quality and provide a richer auditory experience, the Haimu Neo White linear switch stands out for its mild feel and balanced sound profile. Both switches promise a satisfying linear typing experience, appealing to different user preferences. If you're seeking richer acoustics, the Keylin will be your best choice, while the Neo White's neutrality in sound and mild feel makes it a versatile option for users who desire a more subdued typing environment. Overall, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound enhancement or a more toned-down, versatile feel in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, your specific preferences and typing needs will greatly influence your decision. If you prefer a lighter touch and an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a richer sound profile, the Keylin switch is likely the better choice for you. This switch's bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it suitable for fast, light keystrokes, which can enhance your typing speed while providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you favor a bit more resistance and appreciate a medium weight that balances comfort and stability, the Haimu Neo White would be an excellent option. Its unique design, featuring a Ly stem for smooth actuation, paired with a neutral sound profile, makes it versatile for both work and play. Moreover, its slightly reduced total travel creates a distinctive typing feel that can appeal to users who appreciate subtlety in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what feels best for your typing style and environment, ensuring that you find the switch that enhances your overall mechanical keyboard experience.