KTT Laurel vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a linear typing experience. The KTT Laurel features a medium-light weight with a full POM housing, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort, along with a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, with a smooth actuation thanks to the rare use of a Ly stem. While the Laurel is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Snappy', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel. 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
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Haimu Neo White, one key difference is in the top housing material. The Laurel utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
Another notable difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Laurel incorporates a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Neo White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This variance in bottom housing materials can affect the overall acoustics and feel of the switches during use.
Despite their differences, both the KTT Laurel and the Haimu Neo White share a commonality in the unique sound profiles created by their respective housing materials. While the POM top and bottom housing of the Laurel produce a distinct deep and muted sound, the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing of the Neo White create a sharp and crisp sound with deeper tones. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing feel.
Weight
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Although the actuation force of the Neo White is unknown, its heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Laurel. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Laurel, while those who prefer a heavier feel may lean towards the Neo White for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Laurel's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a slightly shallower key press, while the Neo White's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for a shorter, more responsive key press or a slightly longer, more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Laurel switch is recognized for its snappy typing experience, thanks to its super responsive nature and long pole design. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its middle-ground characteristics. The use of a Ly stem in the Neo White switch contributes to a smooth actuation, ensuring each keystroke feels satisfying and comfortable.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Laurel linear switch excels in providing a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing feel, appealing to users looking for a responsive and mellow typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel, suitable for a wide range of users in various settings. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Laurel and the Haimu Neo White linear switches, you'll want to choose the Laurel if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a snappy typing feel. The Laurel's medium-light weight and full POM housing provide a responsive and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, you'll want to choose the Neo White if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a mild typing feel. The Neo White's medium weight and smooth actuation with the Ly stem offer a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to your personal preferences for weight, sound, and typing feel.
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