Haimu Neo White vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, several distinctions become evident. The Neo White stands out for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing sensation. With the rare use of a Ly stem, this switch offers a remarkably smooth actuation, making typing a smooth and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown lacks any standout feature information, leaving its characteristics relatively unknown. The Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', while the Crystal Brown does not have a specified category. Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a clear and resonant sound that is especially enhanced when using RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in materials between the top and bottom housings, both switches offer a balance of qualities that impact the overall sound and feel of typing on them.
While the Neo White and the Crystal Brown share similarities in their housing materials, the key distinction lies in how these materials impact the sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches leads to a sharper and crisper sound, especially effective with RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by combining the qualities of both materials.
In summary, the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer a unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to create a distinct sound profile for typing enthusiasts. The polycarbonate top housing produces a clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for those interested in RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a fuller and deeper typing experience. Although the top and bottom housings impact the sound differently, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with a balance of qualities from each material. Whether you prefer a sharper sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer a blend of materials to cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. However, the actuation force of the Crystal Brown is lighter at 45 grams compared to the Neo White's unknown actuation force. The Neo White provides a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, while the Crystal Brown offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches fall into the medium-light to medium category, providing a good balance between typing comfort and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in the distance traveled. The Neo White has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Crystal Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Neo White's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, as shorter distances are often preferred for gaming. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 Crystal Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch lacks specific information in this regard. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Neo White switch is characterized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. With its medium weight and smooth actuation, typing on this switch is described as satisfying and smooth. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Crystal Brown switch.
In conclusion, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have as much information available. It is important to consider personal preference and intended use when choosing between these switches. Keep in mind that both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel due to their moderate characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider choosing the Neo White if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smooth actuation for a unique typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Crystal Brown if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a tactile feedback for a responsive typing feel. Overall, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer different characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style.
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