Haimu Neo White vs. Huano Strawberry Latte

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Haimu Neo White and the Huano Strawberry Latte both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Neo White switch is recognized for its medium weight and slightly reduced travel distance, providing a distinctive typing experience characterized by its smooth actuation, thanks to the rare Ly stem. This switch is classified as 'Mild' and 'Neutral,' making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a balanced feedback while typing, effectively minimizing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte switch, known for its exceptional smoothness and balanced sound profile, delivers a satisfying auditory experience that strikes a perfect middle ground—neither too quiet nor overly resonant. Although both are linear switches, their design choices appeal to different types of users; the Neo White leans towards a more muted and refined feel, while the Strawberry Latte emphasizes a harmonious auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Haimu Neo White Linear

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$2.70 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Huano Strawberry Latte, one readily notes both similarities and distinctions that significantly affect the overall sound profile and performance characteristics of each switch. The Neo White incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its sharp and crisp sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This results in enhanced sound clarity and resonance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a bright audio experience, especially with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte employs a POK top housing, which, while slightly different in terms of material properties, also contributes to a distinct sound profile. The POK material has a smooth friction coefficient and exceptional wear resistance, offering a different texture while maintaining a robust sound. Both materials are designed to elevate the auditory experience but do so through divergent means—polycarbonate offers transparency and brightness, while POK guarantees a smooth touch and durability.

Delving deeper into their respective bottom housing materials, both the Neo White and Strawberry Latte utilize nylon—a classic choice that provides a deeper, fuller sound when typing. This shared characteristic implies that, regardless of the top housing differences, users can expect a consistent auditory experience due to the nylon's inherent sound-absorbing qualities. The use of nylon in both switches ensures that the bottom-out sound remains rounded and soft, enhancing the overall tactile feedback during usage. Hence, while the upper portions of the switches may yield varying audio textures, the nylon bottom serves as a common ground that harmonizes their sound profiles, ensuring a similar tactile experience for typists.

Ultimately, the interplay between the differing top housing materials—polycarbonate and POK—alongside the identical nylon bottoms results in switches that appeal to various preferences and use cases. The Neo White's clearer and crisper sound, facilitated by its polycarbonate top, contrasts with the Strawberry Latte's smooth and durable characteristics provided by POK. However, thanks to the shared nylon bottom housing, both switches deliver the deep, pleasing sound that is characteristic of nylon constructions. Thus, while there are notable differences in the upper housing materials that influence the overall acoustic experience, both switches create a synergy through their common use of nylon, ultimately resulting in an enjoyable typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch to the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo White features an unknown actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which classifies it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. Consequently, the Strawberry Latte is the lighter option overall, making it more suitable for users seeking a switch that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, the Neo White, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, if users aim for similar results in terms of keystroke feedback, they should consider their personal preferences for weight and typing experience when choosing between these two switches.

Travel distance

The Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, users can expect a similar tactile experience as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same for both. Consequently, anyone using these switches will achieve comparable results in terms of key actuation feel and response, ensuring a consistent typing experience across either option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Haimu Neo White and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches, the Neo White is noted for its neutral sound, characterized by a moderate actuation force and sound profile. This makes it versatile for various settings, whether for casual typing at home or more serious tasks at work. In contrast, while the Strawberry Latte has a balanced sound profile, it is described as neither too quiet nor overly resonant, which suggests it may offer a similar auditory experience without the exact same descriptors. Given that sound can also vary based on other factors, like the keyboard frame and keycap materials, users can expect an overall comparable sound experience from both switches.

In terms of feel, the Neo White switch offers a mild typing experience. This gentler approach makes it broadly approachable, striking a balance that caters well to newcomers and seasoned typists alike. The smoothness of the Neo White’s actuation, enhanced by the rare Ly stem, results in a satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, while the Strawberry Latte’s specific feel is not described in detail, its super smooth action thanks to updated molds suggests that it might have a similarly refined sensation, although the level of actuation force and overall feedback could differ.

In conclusion, both the Haimu Neo White and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches offer unique yet comparable qualities. The Neo White excels in providing a neutral sound profile and a mild, smooth typing experience, while the Strawberry Latte also boasts a balanced sound and super smooth feel. For newcomers, either switch can be a solid choice, ensuring a satisfying typing experience, although the nuances of feel and sound might cater to personal preferences. The decision ultimately comes down to individual taste and the specific context in which the switches will be used.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force and a slightly more tactile feel, the Neo White might be more suitable for you. Its neutral sound profile and mild characteristics make it a versatile option for various environments—be it at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter switch with a very smooth keystroke, the Strawberry Latte is an excellent choice. With its lower actuation force and balanced sound profile, it promises a delightful typing experience, especially for prolonged use where ease of activation is essential. Consider what aspects—such as sound, feel, and the amount of force required to actuate—are most important to you, as these factors will greatly influence your satisfaction with either switch. In the end, taking the time to assess these features will ensure you select the perfect switch tailored to your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Haimu Neo White Linear

$2.70 per 10

Learn more

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more