Durock Light Tactile vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch, with the Haimu Neo White, a linear switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique benefits. The Light Tactile from Durock is celebrated for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature, providing a pleasant typing experience that differs from the sharp tactility often found in other switches. On the other hand, the Neo White switches by Haimu boast a medium weight and smooth actuation, thanks to the rare Ly stem used in their design. While the Light Tactile falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths, which may appeal to different typing preferences. 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
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Haimu Neo White, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for greater RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. While both switches share this feature, they differ in their bottom housing material, with the Light Tactile using nylon and the Neo White also opting for nylon. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch.
The utilization of nylon in both the Light Tactile and Neo White bottom housings leads to a similar sound profile, with a deeper and fuller tone compared to switches with harder plastic housing. However, the impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing material, which is polycarbonate for both switches, influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a well-rounded typing experience, with different aspects of sound being influenced by each material.
While the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Haimu Neo White may differ in terms of their bottom housing material, they both benefit from the unique qualities of polycarbonate in their top housing. The use of polycarbonate creates a distinct sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp, enhancing the overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing of these switches allows for a balance between clarity and depth in sound, catering to different preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether using the Light Tactile or the Neo White, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch differ in their weight requirements. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Neo White, which has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their contrasting force requirements. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Neo White for extended typing sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Light Tactile for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Neo White has a shorter travel distance compared to the Light Tactile. The difference may seem subtle, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. The Light Tactile with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience, while the Neo White's shorter travel distance could appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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, both the Durock Light Tactile and Haimu Neo White switches fall under the category of neutral switches, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. The Light Tactile switch provides a jelly-like sound signature, while the Neo White switch offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, both switches are described as offering a mild typing experience, making them approachable to a wide range of users. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a soft and angelic feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Neo White switch is noted for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, resulting in a smooth actuation that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and Haimu Neo White switches offer users a pleasant typing experience with their unique qualities. While the Light Tactile switch emphasizes a gentle tactility and jelly-like sound, the Neo White switch focuses on a smooth actuation and medium weight. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for, but rest assured that both switches provide a satisfying tactile and auditory experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Light Tactile and the Haimu Neo White switches, consider the level of tactility you prefer. If you enjoy a softer and more gentle tactile experience with a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a slightly reduced total travel, the Neo White switch is a great option. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, making them suitable for all skill levels and environments. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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