Gateron Mars vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and Haimu Neo White both present compelling options for users seeking linear switches, yet they cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, featuring a POK stem and a unique housing blend of Nylon and POM, which provides a responsive and consistent feel that appeals to gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switches are known for their medium weight and reduced total travel, which create a distinctive typing experience; their rare Ly stem contributes to a remarkably smooth actuation, allowing for a satisfying keystroke that many users find enjoyable for both gaming and everyday typing. While each switch offers distinct advantages, choosing the right one often comes down to personal preference in feel and performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mars and the Haimu Neo White switches, distinct differences emerge between their top and bottom housings that influence both sound profiles and user experience. The Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, notable for its sound-absorbing properties that create a deeper and fuller acoustic output when typing. This characteristic stems from nylon's inherent softness, which mutates the sound waves and results in a more rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White employs a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its rigidity and translucency, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction indicates that users seeking a softer typing experience might prefer the Mars due to its fuller sound, whereas those looking for clarity and resonance might lean towards the Neo White.
Examining the bottom housing materials reveals a different yet complementary aspect of construction. The Gateron Mars features a POM bottom housing that produces a unique, deeper sound, contributing to an overall muted auditory signature that complements its nylon top. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White utilizes a nylon bottom housing similar to the Mars. This choice aligns both switches in terms of their ability to generate a fuller sound experience from the bottom, although the nylon's softer properties in the Neo White may slightly vary the perception when compared to the deeper POM of the Mars. As a result, while both switches maintain a consistent appealing sound due to their nylon bottom, the overall user experience is affected by how the different top housing materials define the switch’s character.
When considering how the combination of these materials exerts influence over the typing experience, it becomes clear that the differences between the top and bottom housings create diverse acoustic outcomes in each switch. For the Mars, the nylon top partnered with the POM bottom yields a well-rounded sound, predominantly highlighted by the deeper notes from its POM bottom housing. Conversely, the Neo White merges its crisp polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom, creating a balance of sharpness on the top-out sound with a rounded, more absorbent quality upon bottoming out. Ultimately, both switches will provide unique auditory and tactile feedback due to their respective material choices, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound character and feedback nuances.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mars switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, making it relatively lighter, which can be advantageous for users who prefer a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Neo White switch's bottom out force is 58 grams, indicating it has a heavier resistance when pressed down fully, although its actuation force is unknown. This heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Since the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unavailable, we cannot compare the bottom out characteristics directly, but the lighter actuation force of the Mars switch suggests it may be more suited for those who prefer ease of use, in contrast to the potentially tougher, more forceful experience of the Neo White.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience similar sensations when pressing down on either key. This equal travel distance ensures that both switches will yield comparable results in terms of tactile feedback and actuation feel, allowing for a consistent typing experience. Since they have the same travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer, making them equally appealing for individuals who prioritize uniform key presses in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Mars switch has yet to be characterized, which leaves an open question about its auditory feedback during use. In comparison, the Haimu Neo White linear switch presents a neutral sound signature, providing a moderate actuation force and sound intensity. This quality makes the Neo White versatile enough for various environments, whether it’s at home, in an office, or for gaming sessions. Given that sound can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material, users wanting a quiet experience might find the Neo White to be a safer bet until more information about the Mars is available.
When it comes to feel, the Mars switch also lacks a specific description, making it difficult to gauge its tactile response directly. Conversely, the Haimu Neo White switches are characterized as mild, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience. This approachable feel means that users will likely find the Neo White satisfying to type on without being overly aggressive, catering well to those who may prefer a more understated switch feel. Without concrete data on how the Mars compares in terms of tactile feedback, the Neo White provides a reliable standard of comfort and smoothness.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mars switch leaves some aspects to be desired regarding both sound and feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch shines with its neutral auditory profile and mild typing experience. For those seeking a low-risk option, the Neo White certainly has much to offer in terms of versatility and user-friendliness. Until more detailed insights into the Mars switch are provided, it remains a slightly uncertain choice, while the Neo White firmly establishes itself as a dependable option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a unique design and a switch that prioritizes a smooth actuation, the Gateron Mars might be more suitable for you. Although its bottom-out force is unspecified, its innovative blend of materials may provide a distinct experience that could excite those who enjoy exploring new technologies in mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced feel with moderate actuation force, the Haimu Neo White with its 58-gram bottom-out force might be the better choice. The Neo White's neutral sound profile and mild typing experience make it adaptable for various environments, whether you are a beginner looking for an approachable switch or an advanced user seeking comfort in your daily typing tasks. As a result, consider how each switch aligns with your typographic needs, sound preferences, and the overall feel you desire when making your selection.
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