Haimu Neo White vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices that come to mind are the Haimu Neo White and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both linear switches. The Neo White switches offer a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing feel that is smooth and satisfying due to the rare Ly stem used in its design. Categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', the Neo White switch is a solid choice for those seeking a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches are known for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, adding a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky', these switches offer a tactile experience that is both pleasing and unique. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we find that the Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro boasts a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. Both materials offer unique sound characteristics based on their stiffness, with polycarbonate providing a clearer and resonant sound, and nylon offering a duller and rounder tone. Despite their differences, both materials are commonly used in switch housings for their distinct sound qualities.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, we see that both the Neo White and the V3 Piano Pro feature nylon housing. This material, known for its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches enhances the overall typing experience by providing a more cushioned bottom-out sound and feel. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the Neo White and the V3 Piano Pro, the qualities of nylon are consistent in both, offering users a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When considering how the top and bottom housings impact the sound of a switch, it becomes clear that each material brings its unique characteristics to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Neo White and the V3 Piano Pro, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom components splits the qualities of each material between the two parts of the switch. This division allows for a balanced sound profile that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate with the depth of nylon, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Neo White has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams, making the Neo White slightly heavier. However, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Neo White's actuation force is unspecified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Neo White may appeal to individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel with its higher bottom out force. Both switches provide a medium to medium-light typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of typing performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Haimu Neo White. Both of these switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, the Akko V3 Piano Pro would be the better option, while if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress feel, the Haimu Neo White would be the choice. Ultimately, both switches offer similar qualities due to their relatively close travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 offers a neutral profile with a moderate sound level, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound, providing a distinctive and lively auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and usage scenario.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel to most users. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations, creating a spring-like feedback with smooth and buttery key presses. Each switch provides a different feel, catering to individuals seeking specific tactile responses when typing.
Overall, the Haimu Neo White and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neo White switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro switch delivers a clacky sound signature and a bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall enjoyment of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-weight switch with a smooth actuation and a slightly reduced total travel for a distinctive typing feel, then the Neo White may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation and a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke, then the V3 Piano Pro could be the ideal choice. Additionally, if you prefer a mild typing experience, the Neo White offers a more gentle feel, whereas the V3 Piano Pro provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of weight, sound, and feel, so choose the switch that best aligns with your typing needs and preferences.
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