Haimu Neo White vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The Neo White stands out with its medium weight and smooth actuation due to the rare Ly stem, providing a satisfying typing feel categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis boasts a light actuation force of 37g and a 50g tactile force, offering an effortless typing experience with a discernible tactile bump categorized as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Neo White and KTT Phalaenopsis both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is ideal for switches that are meant to be used with RGB lighting, as it is translucent and allows light to shine through. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Neo White offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Neo White and Phalaenopsis results in a similar sharp and clear sound profile. Both switches will have a high-pitched and resonant sound when activated, making them suitable for users who prefer a crisp typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to enhance the visual appeal of the switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing material on the overall typing experience should not be overlooked, as it can significantly affect the sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
In conclusion, while the Haimu Neo White and KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Neo White offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different typing experiences. The Neo White switch has no actuation force specified, making it potentially lighter than the Phalaenopsis which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neo White requires 58 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis's 50 grams, making the Neo White the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Phalaenopsis would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing may prefer the Neo White. Ultimately, the different actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide users with options to suit their individual preferences for typing comfort and experience.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Neo White's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Phalaenopsis's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, offering a balance between responsiveness and key feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and speed of input.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch provides a bassy and thocky sound that resonates with a deep and rich tone, adding an element of satisfaction to each keystroke. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a neutral sound or a more pronounced and bass-heavy typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile bump sensation that differs from the more uniform sensation of linear switches. The decision between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more gradual and subtle tactile feedback or a distinct two-stage feel during typing.
Overall, both the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neo White provides a neutral sound and a mild typing experience, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound profile and a stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel, as both switches guarantee a smooth and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a smooth actuation and slightly reduced total travel, the Neo White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with an effortless typing experience and a satisfying tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, the Neo White would be a good option, while the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and which switch characteristics align best with your preferences.
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