TKC Kiwi vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Neo White offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kiwi is a tactile switch known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Neo White is a linear switch with a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, offering a smooth actuation and distinct typing feel. While the Kiwi is factory lubed for a smooth out-of-the-box experience, the Neo White boasts a rare Ly stem for a remarkably smooth keystroke. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Neo White both showcase unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. While the Kiwi features UHWMPE top and bottom housings, providing a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, the Neo White opts for polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Neo White creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Neo White offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the bright sound signature of the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi.
Despite their differences, both the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Neo White prioritize sound quality by utilizing specific materials in their housing design. The use of UHWMPE in the Kiwi's top and bottom housings creates a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Neo White delivers a higher-pitched sound profile that is also clear and resonant. In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon material in the Neo White provides a deeper and fuller sound profile that differs from the impact of the UHWMPE bottom housing in the Kiwi. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound characteristics based on their housing materials.
In terms of overall performance, the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Neo White showcase how different housing materials can impact sound quality. While the UHWMPE and polycarbonate top housings of the Kiwi and the Neo White offer bright and sharp sound profiles respectively, the nylon bottom housing of the Neo White creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by utilizing specific materials that enhance the sound signature of each switch. Ultimately, whether you prefer a brighter sound with resonant clacks or a sharper, more resonant sound profile, both the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Neo White deliver on their promises of high-quality housing materials for improved sound performance.
Weight
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer different actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Kiwi has a higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Neo White's unspecified force, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler touch when typing. However, the Kiwi also has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. In contrast, the Neo White has a lower bottom out force of 58 grams, striking a balance between a light actuation and a medium bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether one values a lighter typing experience for longer sessions or a heavier, more satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, we see that the Kiwi has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Neo White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Kiwi falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, offering a standard feel when typing. On the other hand, the Neo White provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the Kiwi provides a tad more depth with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, 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
In terms of sound, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. While the Kiwi has a low-pitched sound which is typically more bass-heavy and mellow, the Neo White switch's sound is not specifically mentioned in the provided information. However, both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Kiwi potentially offering a slightly deeper tone.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as having a stepped and accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is satisfying without being overwhelming. Additionally, the switch is polished for a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and offering smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The use of a Ly stem in the Neo White contributes to a smooth actuation, making each keystroke a satisfying experience without being too pronounced.
In conclusion, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with stepped and accented tactile feel, the Neo White switch offers a neutral sound with a mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Users looking for a more tactile typing experience may prefer the Kiwi, while those seeking a smoother and gentler typing feel may lean towards the Neo White. Both switches are factory lubed for smooth operation out of the box, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of the choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong bump with a snappy sound profile and smooth typing experience, then the Kiwi switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly reduced total travel with a smooth actuation and a gentle typing experience, the Neo White switch could be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom-out force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your keyboarding experience, so choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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