KTT Lightning vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the KTT Lightning and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The Lightning switches are ideal for gamers looking for speed and precision, as they offer a slick typing experience with a clacky sound profile that can make all the difference in competitive gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Neo White switches are known for their medium weight and smooth actuation, providing a satisfying typing feel with a slightly reduced total travel distance. While the Lightning switches are categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Chirpy', 'Subtle', 'Polished', the Neo White switches are classified as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. 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
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Haimu Neo White, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Lightning and Neo White have nylon bottom housings that produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both keyboards share similar polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper sound profile, the KTT Lightning's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly different typing experience compared to the Haimu Neo White's nylon bottom housing due to variations in material softness. The impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel is significant, as it affects the overall typing experience. However, the top housing material will primarily influence the sound when keys are released. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound and feel of the keyboard can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and Haimu Neo White keyboards offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. Both keyboards utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, while their nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in material softness between the nylon bottom housings may result in a nuanced typing experience. Overall, selecting a keyboard with the preferred combination of housing materials can enhance the typing experience and satisfaction for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is clear that the Lightning requires a lighter touch while the Neo White offers a slightly heavier feel. The actuation force of the Lightning is 43 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke compared to the Neo White, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Lightning at 50 grams is also lighter than the Neo White at 58 grams, providing a softer landing when pressing keys fully down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lightning switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial and tactile typing experience may find the Neo White switch more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is clear that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance at 3 mm, while the Neo White has a slightly longer travel distance at 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Lightning would provide a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Neo White offers a bit more depth in the keystroke, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a neutral sound, suitable for various environments and preferences. Depending on the user's preference for a sharp and distinctive sound or a more moderate and universal sound, both switches offer different auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning linear switch is characterized by a subtle and polished typing experience, offering a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. This results in a refined and sleek typing feel, suitable for shared spaces. Conversely, the Haimu Neo White linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with a subtle and polished typing feel, perfect for fast-paced scenarios. In comparison, the Neo White switch offers a more neutral sound and a mild typing experience, appealing to a wider range of users. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches have their own strengths and can deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value speed and precision in your keystrokes, the Lightning switch with its light bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a smooth actuation and reduced total travel, the Neo White switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Lightning switch may be more to your liking, while the neutral sound profile of the Neo White switch makes it more versatile for various environments. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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