Haimu Neo White vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinctive typing experiences. The Neo White switch stands out with its medium weight and smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem, providing a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Plum switch feels hefty without a pronounced tactile bump, offering a unique typing experience compared to typical tactile switches. While both switches fall under the 'Neutral' category, the Plum switch also includes 'Mild' and 'Stepped' characteristics. Each switch has its own appeal, with the Neo White offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience, and the Plum providing a unique tactile feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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 Kailh Plum both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This material is especially useful for switches with clear housing, as it allows for RGB lighting to shine through. On the other hand, the Neo White's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The Plum also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the Nylon bottom housings of the Neo White and the Plum give each switch a unique typing experience. The Neo White's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a switch with a clear and resonant sound when pressing down on keys and a deeper sound when releasing them. In contrast, the Plum's use of nylon for both top and bottom housing creates a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in bottom housing material contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches, making each one a distinct typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Haimu Neo White and Kailh Plum share similar top housing materials in polycarbonate, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Neo White's nylon bottom housing creates a different sound profile than the Plum's nylon bottom housing, with the former producing a sharper sound when pressing down on keys compared to the latter's consistent deep sound. These variations in housing materials showcase the impact that different plastics can have on the overall typing experience of a switch.
Weight
In comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the Neo White is the lighter option in terms of bottom out force, with 58 grams compared to the Plum's 70 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to determine which is lighter in this aspect. However, it can be assumed that since the Neo White is lighter in bottom out force, it may also have a lighter actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Neo White, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Plum offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, making it a better choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, providing a consistent typing experience for users. Whether it's the Neo White or the Plum, users can rely on a travel distance of 3.6 mm, ensuring a familiar feel when typing on either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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, both the Haimu Neo White and the Kailh Plum switches offer a neutral profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. This means that the sound produced by these switches is moderate and generally pleasing to the ear. Keep in mind, however, that the overall sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Haimu Neo White provides a mild typing experience, catering to those who prefer a gentler keypress. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a unique tactile sensation with a significant weightiness but a less pronounced tactile bump compared to traditional tactile switches. The Plum also falls under the category of a stepped switch, providing a more nuanced typing feel with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations.
Overall, both the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Neo White stands out with its smooth actuation and medium weight, providing a satisfying typing experience. Meanwhile, the Plum switch offers a hefty feel with a unique tactile profile that sets it apart from other tactile switches. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, but rest assured that both options will provide a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, your decision will ultimately come down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a smoother and slightly lighter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Neo White switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more weighty keypress with a unique tactile feel that isn't too pronounced, the Plum switch could be the right choice. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments and provide a mild typing experience, but with the Plum switch also offering a stepped tactile feel for added distinction. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch will provide you with the most satisfying typing experience.
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