Haimu Neo White vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Neo White stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing feel due to its smooth actuation. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a buttery smooth typing experience with its all-POM construction and very light 45g bottom-out, making it perfect for light typists. While the Neo White is categorized as mild and neutral, the Purple Star is categorized as mild, low-pitched, and easy to press. Each switch has its own strengths, but ultimately, the decision between the two depends on individual preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and KTT Purple Star switches differ significantly in terms of the materials used. The Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Purple Star boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Neo White delivering a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the Purple Star's more subdued tones.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches also diverge in materials used. The Neo White incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Purple Star utilizes a POM bottom housing, which aligns with its top housing in creating a deeper and more muted sound. These differences in bottom housing materials further differentiate the typing experience between the two switches, with the Neo White offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Purple Star's consistent deep tones.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and KTT Purple Star switches result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Neo White's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials creates a sharper and fuller sound experience, the Purple Star's POM housing materials deliver a more subdued and consistent sound profile throughout. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether users prefer a crisper, resonant sound or a deeper, more muted typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is lighter in terms of actuation force at 43 grams compared to the Neo White's unknown force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neo White requires 58 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Purple Star's 50 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a lighter typing experience with the Purple Star, while the heavier bottom out force of the Neo White could provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference between the two may seem negligible, it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Star switch, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Neo White switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to users who enjoy a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that may be more bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Neo White and Purple Star switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Purple Star switch is noted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Neo White switch, on the other hand, stands out for its medium weight and smooth actuation, providing a satisfying typing feel with slightly reduced total travel.
Overall, while the Haimu Neo White and KTT Purple Star linear switches may have some differences in sound and feel, both offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile or a low-pitched tone, and whether you prioritize ease of pressing or smooth actuation, both of these switches are solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Haimu Neo White linear switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a smooth actuation and slightly reduced travel distance, then the Neo White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a light typist looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with minimal bottom-out force, the Purple Star switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Purple Star is easier to press with its lower bottom-out force. Consider your typing preferences and needs when making your decision between these two switches.
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