Cherry MX Black vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the linear switch category, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The MX Black, known for its low-pitched, textured, and stiff feel, offers a classic typing experience with Cherry's Hyperglide tooling providing smoothness and a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Neo White switches have a medium weight, slightly reduced total travel, and a smooth actuation due to the Ly stem, resulting in a satisfying typing feel. While the MX Black excels in offering a familiar and sturdy typing experience, the Neo White stands out for its smooth and distinctive 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Haimu Neo White switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Neo White boasts a polycarbonate top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic material. While both materials are classic choices for switch housings, they offer distinct auditory experiences to users.
In terms of bottom housing, both the MX Black and Neo White switches utilize nylon material. This shared housing material results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the switches still maintain their unique qualities through the polycarbonate and nylon top housings. This combination of different housing materials within each switch allows for a dynamic sound profile that encompasses both the impact of pressing down on a key and the sound when releasing it.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch greatly influences the sound profile and typing experience. The MX Black's nylon housing creates a more muted and softer sound, while the Neo White's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and resonant typing experience. The similarities in the bottom housing material between the two switches showcase the importance of the top housing material in determining the overall sound profile of a switch. By understanding the unique qualities of each material, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Cherry MX Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, with an unknown actuation force, making it a lighter option compared to the Cherry MX Black. While the actuation force of the Neo White switch is unknown, it is safe to assume that it is lighter than the Cherry MX Black due to its overall lighter feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with some opting for the heavier Cherry MX Black for a more substantial typing experience, while others may prefer the lighter Haimu Neo White for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The MX Black offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neo White, making it a bit more traditional in terms of key press feel. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Neo White, while those who appreciate a deeper key press might lean towards the MX Black. Both switches offer a good balance between travel distance and responsiveness, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, 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, the Cherry MX Black switches are best described as having a low-pitched profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switches offer a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that caters to a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Cherry MX Black switches are known for their textured and stiff characteristics, providing a noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate compared to other switches. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switches offer a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The rare use of a Ly stem in the Neo White switches contributes to a remarkably smooth actuation, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Cherry MX Black and Haimu Neo White switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Black switches provide a deep, low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, the Neo White switches deliver a neutral sound and a mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. However, it's important to consider other factors such as keycap material and keyboard construction when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches can offer satisfying results, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier key press with a textured and stiff feel, the MX Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight key press with a smoother and milder feel, the Neo White could be more suitable. Consider your typing habits, work environment, and desired sound profile to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on your individual needs.
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