Haimu Neo White vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the characteristics of different options, such as the Haimu Neo White and the HMX SU, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Neo White is celebrated for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, which, combined with its unique Ly stem construction, delivers a notably smooth and satisfying typing experience. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a balanced and responsive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX SU boasts a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, creating a subtly deep sound profile that some users may prefer for its distinctive auditory feedback. While both switches are linear and can cater to typists looking for a seamless keypress, they offer different sensory experiences and tactile feedback that may appeal to various preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the HMX SU, a primary distinction lies in the materials used for their respective top housings. The Haimu Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its rigidity. This stiffness contributes to a clearer resonance, making polycarbonate particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, given its translucency. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound rather than amplifies it. This fundamental difference in materials thus affects the auditory experience of using each switch, with the Neo White being more suitable for users who prefer a bright and vibrant sound, while the SU is designed for those who favor a warmer typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Haimu Neo White and the HMX SU share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality means that both switches will exhibit similar characteristics in terms of sound absorption and overall typing feel from the bottom housing. Nylon’s softer composition contributes to a more subdued and rounded sound profile, as it dampens the acoustics more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, irrespective of the differences in the top housing materials, users can expect a similar auditory experience when pressing down on either switch, given that the bottom housing is the same for both models.
Ultimately, the interplay between the two different top housings and the shared nylon bottom housing results in characteristic sound profiles that reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the materials involved. While the Haimu Neo White’s polycarbonate top produces a sharper sound when the key is released, the deeper resonance from the nylon bottom balances the acoustics in both switches. Conversely, the HMX SU, with its nylon top, emphasizes a warm and rounded typing experience from the get-go. Thus, while users of the two switches may experience different auditory characteristics upon release, they can still achieve a similar, fuller typing experience at the point of bottoming out due to the nylon material common in both bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Neo White does not have a specified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 58 grams, classified as medium. In contrast, the HMX SU has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference indicates that the Neo White is heavier overall, providing a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. Meanwhile, the lighter SU switch might be more suitable for users looking for comfort during extended typing sessions or long gaming hours. Overall, the SU offers a softer touch, making it the more approachable choice for those seeking less fatigue during prolonged use.
Travel distance
Both the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile feel when pressing down on the keys equipped with either switch, resulting in comparable performance and feedback during typing or gaming. Since both switches feature an identical travel distance, it ensures that the actuation and bottoming out feel will be consistent, allowing for a seamless transition between the two if one were to switch from one type of switch to the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 considering sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch exhibits a neutral tone that includes a moderate actuation force and sound profile. This balance makes it versatile, suitable for both beginners and experienced users, whether they are typing at home or working in a quieter office environment. The sound quality is generally harmonious, avoiding any jarring noise that may disrupt others nearby. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch is noted for its subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, which suggests a richer audio experience that sets it apart from the Neo White. However, as sound can be influenced by factors like keyboard construction and keycap materials, both switches may present a diverse auditory experience depending on the setup.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White switch provides a mild experience, characterized by its gentle typing action. The smooth actuation afforded by its unique Ly stem results in a satisfying keystroke that is approachable for various typing styles. This makes the Neo White's feel user-friendly and accommodating, particularly for those who may be new to mechanical keyboards. The tactile response might not be pronounced, but it strikes a balance between comfort and performance. The HMX SU switch, while described in less detail regarding its feel, is expected to offer a notable experience as well, especially given its solid PA12 housing and T5 stem, although specifics on its tactile characteristics remain unknown.
In conclusion, while both switches provide a unique experience, they cater to different preferences and usage contexts. The Haimu Neo White offers a neutral sound and a mild feel, making it a great option for versatile use across various environments. Conversely, the HMX SU seems to lean towards a more subtle sound signature, potentially appealing to users looking for a deeper audio experience. If you're seeking a switch that delivers smooth actuation and comfort, you'll find the Neo White to be a reliable choice. For those prioritizing sound depth, the HMX SU may hold some intrigue, though personal preferences regarding feel and sound may vary significantly based on the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you appreciate a medium actuation force with a smooth keystroke and slightly reduced travel, the Neo White is an excellent choice, particularly for its well-rounded performance that suits both casual and professional settings. Its neutral sound profile makes it versatile for various environments, whether you're gaming, typing documents, or working in an office. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel with a deeper sound profile for a more tactile experience, the HMX SU might appeal to you more. With a softer actuation force, it enhances a gentler typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions where comfort is paramount, while its unique sound can provide a satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, it boils down to how you value weight, sound, and overall typing sensations—both switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different styles of use.
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