Haimu Neo White vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Haimu Neo White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Neo White is a linear switch that provides a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, resulting in a unique typing experience characterized by a smooth actuation. In contrast, the Blueberry switch is tactile, featuring a sharp tactile bump that appeals to those who enjoy a distinct typing feel. While the Neo White is described as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', the Blueberry switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Stiff'. Each switch offers its own advantages depending on personal preference, whether you prefer a smooth and satisfying typing experience with the Neo White or a sharp and textured feel with the Blueberry. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, we see that both switches have distinct characteristics due to their different materials. The Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housings differ in sound profile, both materials are known for their clarity and resonance.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Neo White comes with a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Blueberry has a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deep and muted sound. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a unique and satisfying sound profile.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact in each switch, it becomes clear that the characteristics of each material are distributed throughout the typing process. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. While the Neo White and Blueberry may have different housing materials, the overall typing experience may still be similar in terms of the qualities each material brings to the sound and feel of the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Haimu Neo White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo White switch has a unique feature with an actuation force of None grams, making it incredibly light to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 58 grams, providing a moderate typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial and pronounced typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Neo White switch more appealing for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users seeking a more forceful typing experience may lean towards the NovelKeys Blueberry switch. In either case, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Neo White offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Neo White may be the better option, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the NovelKeys Blueberry.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and versatile typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound, delivering a deeper tone with a clean and sharp auditory experience. The choice of keycaps and keyboard can also influence the overall sound production of these switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a comfortable and approachable feel for most users. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is characterized by its snappy, buttery, and invigorating feel, providing a responsive and lively typing sensation with pronounced feedback and moderate actuation force. Additionally, the Blueberry switch may offer a textured feel, adding a unique tactile element to the typing experience.
Overall, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience in their own right. Whether you prefer a smoother, neutral typing experience with a moderate sound profile (Neo White) or a sharper, tactile typing experience with a deeper, resonant sound (Blueberry), both switches offer their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider your preference for key weight and typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and smooth actuation, the Neo White is a great choice for a satisfying and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavy bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump, the Blueberry switches offer a more pronounced typing experience with a lower-than-average sound frequency. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preferences for key weight and tactile feel. Choose the Neo White for a smooth and medium typing experience, or opt for the Blueberry for a sharper and heavier tactile feedback.
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