Haimu Neo White vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Smoothie both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Neo White is praised for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing experience with a smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie boasts an all-POM construction that delivers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', the Smoothie is classified as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Smoothie both play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. The Neo White's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound when typing. In contrast, the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique typing experience that some users may find more pleasing. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Neo White's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, lending a unique feel to the typing experience. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings offer a similar outcome in terms of sound quality, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
In summary, the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Smoothie each bring their own unique sound profiles to the table. While the Neo White showcases a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing combination, the Smoothie offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, as both options offer high-quality materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Neo White does not have a specified actuation force, while its bottom out force is 58 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams but no specified bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Smoothie is lighter in actuation force compared to the Neo White, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Neo White requires a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Neo White for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch are both 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance with either of these switches. Both switches will provide a similar amount of keypress travel, resulting in a comparable typing feel. Therefore, whether you choose the Neo White or the Smoothie, you can expect a similar distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 it comes to sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, suitable for various environments and preferences. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that delivers a deep and satisfying typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a neutral sound or a more distinct and tactile typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable for most users, providing a comfortable middle-ground option for both beginners and advanced typists. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has been described as buttery, creamy, and silky, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that effortlessly glides fingers across the keys. If you prioritize a seamless and uniform typing experience, the Smoothie switch may be the preferred choice.
Considering all available information, the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neo White switch provides a neutral sound and a mild typing feel, the Smoothie switch delivers a thocky sound and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter touch and smoother actuation, the Gateron Smoothie may be the better option, while the Haimu Neo White offers a more moderate and versatile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium weight with a slightly reduced total travel 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 are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and budget. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
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