Haimu Neo White vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, you will find two distinct options for your mechanical keyboard. The Neo White switch features a medium weight and reduced total travel, providing a unique typing experience with smooth actuation due to its Ly stem. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. While the Neo White switch may appeal to those seeking a smooth and satisfying keystroke, the Silent Brown switch is perfect for those looking for a comfortable typing experience with a tactile bump. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Haimu Neo White and the TTC Silent Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches share similar qualities in their top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Neo White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both the Haimu Neo White and the TTC Silent Brown share the characteristic of having a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the sound profile of the switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Neo White's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of design and functionality, the choice between the Haimu Neo White and the TTC Silent Brown ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer the benefit of a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, the difference in their bottom housings gives each switch a unique sound profile. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound (Neo White) or a rounder and duller sound (Silent Brown), both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Neo White, which has no specified actuation force. However, the Neo White has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Silent Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Silent Brown offers a lighter initial press but a heavier overall typing experience when compared to the Neo White. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and key press weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Neo White has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm compared to the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Silent Brown. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, some users may find the Neo White's 3.6 mm travel distance to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly deeper feel of the Silent Brown's 3.8 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
Overall, when comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in both sound and feel. The Neo White offers a neutral sound profile with a smooth actuation, making it suitable for a wide range of uses. In terms of feel, it provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch produces a muted sound and offers a buttery, polished feel with a comfortable tactile bump. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Neo White focuses on smoothness and versatility, while the Silent Brown prioritizes a quiet operation and a luxurious typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options will deliver a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you appreciate a smooth and slightly reduced total travel with a satisfying typing feel, the Neo White switch with its medium weight and smooth actuation is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance and a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown switch with its rounded tactile bump may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and sound preference. Choose the one that best suits your needs and enjoy a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
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