Haimu Neo White vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Semi Mute both offer unique features worth exploring. The Neo White switch is praised for its medium weight and reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing experience with a smooth actuation thanks to the rare Ly stem. Its categorization as mild and neutral makes it a versatile option for various users. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch, despite its name, offers completely silent operation, ideal for those seeking a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. With a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switch is categorized as buttery, mild, muted, and neutral, providing a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Semi Mute, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Neo White diverges with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon compared to polycarbonate. In contrast, the Semi Mute maintains consistency with a polycarbonate bottom housing, ensuring a clear and resonant sound across the entire switch.
Despite sharing a polycarbonate top housing for both switches, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon for the Neo White's bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. This showcases how the material composition of the housing can significantly impact the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch. While both switches deliver a premium typing experience, the difference in bottom housing material adds a unique touch to each.
Ultimately, the split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch determines the distribution of sound and feel characteristics. The Neo White's combination of polycarbonate and nylon allows for a nuanced typing experience that emphasizes a deep and full sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the housing ensures a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile. Whether it be the impact on bottom-out sounds or the sound when releasing a key, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Haimu Neo White has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it has a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, whereas the KTT Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams, indicating a slightly heavier touch. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when fully pressed down. The Neo White offers a lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for extended use during work or gaming sessions, while the Semi Mute caters to those who prefer a slightly heavier push for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation force and typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the KTT Semi Mute switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Haimu Neo White switch. In terms of comparison, both switches offer relatively short travel distances in the grand scheme of mechanical keyboards. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Neo White for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Semi Mute. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 typing experience with a moderate sound profile, suitable for most users whether they are beginners or advanced. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch provides a muted sound, creating a softer and quieter typing environment ideal for those who value a noise-free workspace. Both switches offer different sound profiles catering to varying preferences, with the Neo White being more versatile in different settings.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for a wide range of users. In comparison, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Neo White offering a milder feel while the Semi Mute provides a more luxurious typing experience.
Overall, the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neo White provides a neutral sound with a mild typing feel, while the Semi Mute offers a muted sound and a buttery typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide gratifying typing experiences, albeit with slightly different characteristics, ensuring users will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your priorities for typing experience. If you prefer a slightly reduced total travel and smooth actuation for a satisfying typing feel, the Neo White switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and seek a comfortable and gratifying typing experience with advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a distinctive typing feel or a quieter typing experience. Consider your preferences and needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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