Haimu Neo White vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Haimu Neo White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and performance. The Neo White stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing experience with a smooth actuation thanks to the rare use of a Ly stem. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is known for its innovative semi-silent feature that creates a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Both switches offer a neutral feel, but the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' while the Semi-Silent Linear features a range of descriptors including 'Subdued', 'Snappy', and 'Buttery'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Haimu Neo White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material choice is ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the colors to shine through. However, the Neo White and Semi-Silent Linear differ in their bottom housings, with the Neo White utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear also opts for nylon for a rounder and duller sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Haimu Neo White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature clear housings made of polycarbonate, allowing for a visually appealing look that showcases the internal components of the switch. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches provides a distinct tactile experience for typists. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a different sound profile when compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. This difference in material selection highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when designing switches for a specific sound and feel.
Overall, while the Haimu Neo White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the use of nylon for the bottom housings sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Neo White's deeper and fuller sound profile from the nylon bottom housing contrasts with the Semi-Silent Linear's rounder and duller sound, showcasing the impact that housing material can have on the overall feel of a switch. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, these differences in housing materials offer users a diverse range of options to suit their personal typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we see a few differences. The actuation force of both switches is unknown, but the bottom out force of the Neo White is lighter at 58 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's 62 grams. This means that the Neo White may offer a slightly lighter typing experience, which could be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear may provide a slightly more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches fall within the medium range of force, offering a balance between lighter and heavier options for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Neo White has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. In terms of typing experience, the Neo White may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster key presses. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch may offer a slightly more substantial feel with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so the overall typing experience should be comparable between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 comparing the sound of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, the Neo White offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a subdued sound, leaning towards a quieter typing experience while still maintaining a moderate sound level. In terms of feel, both switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Semi-Silent Linear switch also boasts qualities such as snappiness, buttery smoothness, and a polished finish, enhancing the overall feel of typing.
Taking into account the available information, users can expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience with the Haimu Neo White linear switch, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a quieter typing experience with additional qualities like snappiness and buttery smoothness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and typing experience between the two switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, typing feel, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a smooth actuation for a satisfying typing experience, the Neo White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a silky smooth typing feel with a bit more responsiveness, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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