Haimu Neo White vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and Outemu Blue offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Neo White is a linear switch that stands out for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing feel. With the rare use of a Ly stem, the Neo White switches offer a remarkably smooth actuation, making each keystroke smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', the Blue switch does not have a specific categorization. Both switches have their own advantages, making them appealing choices for different 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Blue, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches.
However, the key point of divergence between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. While the Neo White features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the Outemu Blue also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. This implies that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when bottoming out keys. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper tones generated by the polycarbonate top housing.
In conclusion, while the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Blue share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing that result in a clear and resonant sound profile, their different bottom housing materials offer contrasting sound experiences. The nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound, but the impact of this material is most noticeable when bottoming out keys. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches provide a unique typing experience for users, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Neo White has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a different emphasis on force, with the Neo White focusing on a moderate bottom out force for a comfortable typing experience, while the Blue places importance on the actuation force for a crisp, responsive typing feel. Overall, the Neo White is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Blue is heavier and provides a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neo White. The Neo White's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so ultimately the choice between the two would depend on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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
Overall, when comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the Neo White offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium weight and reduced total travel, making each keystroke feel precise. In terms of sound, the Neo White provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various uses, while the Blue switch's sound profile is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Neo White switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, whereas the feel of the Blue switch is not specified. Depending on personal preference and typing habits, both switches can provide a different, yet enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. If you prefer a smoother actuation and a neutral sound profile, the Neo White switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky sound and a different tactile experience, the Outemu Blue switch may be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can cater to a variety of users' preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a smooth actuation and medium weight with a slightly reduced total travel for a satisfying typing experience, the Neo White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a distinct sound and feel, the Blue might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you prioritize and what suits your preferences best.
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