Haimu Neo White vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often consider factors like actuation feel and acoustic feedback, which bring us to a comparison of the Haimu Neo White and the Bsun Taichi switches—both linear but offering distinct experiences. The Neo White switches are celebrated for their medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, which provide a unique typing feel that balances comfort and efficiency. The incorporation of a Ly stem results in exceptionally smooth actuation, offering a satisfying keystroke for those who prioritize a mild and neutral typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switches are renowned for their captivating high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to their long-pole stem and extended springs. This design not only enhances the auditory experience but also ensures unparalleled smoothness and stability during typing. While the Neo White focuses on a refined tactile experience, the Taichi excels in delivering a distinctive acoustic profile. 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
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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Bsun Taichi, it becomes evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly impacts their acoustic characteristics. The use of polycarbonate leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its relatively stiff nature. This stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when keys are actuated, making it a favored choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through, further enhancing the visual appeal of both switches.
On the other hand, both the Neo White and Taichi switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, which serves to balance out the acoustic profile established by the polycarbonate tops. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a classic switch housing material, nylon helps to create a more rounded and less harsh auditory experience, especially noticeable during bottoming out, where the impact is more influenced by the bottom housing. This complementary duo of materials results in a well-rounded sound experience, combining the clarity from the polycarbonate with the warmth of the nylon.
Given that both switches incorporate the same materials for their top and bottom housings, one can expect similar results in sound and performance. The polycarbonate tops will consistently deliver a bright and crisp sound upon key release, while the nylon bottoms will ensure a rich and solid feel when keys are pressed down. This synergy between the two types of plastic allows for a harmonious typing experience, where the clarity of the sound is balanced by a satisfying depth. Whether one prefers the Neo White or the Taichi, the use of polycarbonate and nylon guarantees that both will provide an enjoyable acoustic profile and tactile feedback that many users seek in a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch present unique characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo White lacks a specified actuation force, while its bottom out force is measured at 58 grams, classifying it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the Taichi switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it the lighter option between the two; however, its bottom out force remains unknown. For users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions—ideal for work or long gaming marathons—the Taichi is a more suitable choice with its 40-gram actuation force. On the other hand, the Neo White's balanced feel may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience, even with its unknown actuation. Without both switches providing complete metrics for actuation and bottom out forces, users might expect similar responsiveness during short keystrokes but will discern distinct differences in bottoming out when pressed fully.
Travel distance
Both the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. Since both switches exhibit the same travel distance, users can expect similar actuation feedback when pressing down on the keys. This similarity in travel distance means that for those who value a specific key feel, either switch should provide comparable performance and responsiveness during typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The sound profile of the Haimu Neo White switch is characterized by a neutral quality. This makes it suitable for a variety of environments, such as home and office settings, as it does not overpower with excessive noise or sound, striking a balance that appeals to both beginners and seasoned typists. Conversely, the Bsun Taichi switch offers a unique auditory experience with its high-pitched bottom-out sound. This distinctive feature may cater to enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced sound when typing, but it also means that the Taichi could be louder, potentially making it less desirable in quieter settings. Ultimately, the choice between them may boil down to personal preference regarding how prominent a switch's acoustic signature should be.
Feel-wise, the Neo White switch presents a mild typing experience. This mildness allows for a gentle and approachable sensation with each keystroke, making it comfortable for users who may not prefer more aggressive or pronounced tactile feedback. This balanced feel ensures that most typists will find comfort and ease while using the switch. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switch, while not explicitly described in terms of feel, implies smoother actuation due to its long-pole stem and extended springs. While the exact tactile feedback can't be detailed here, users may expect a very fluid experience, likely appealing to those who favor an ultra-smooth feel in their typing experience.
In summary, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Haimu Neo White is ideal for users seeking a neutral sound and a mild feel, making it accessible for a wide range of tasks. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch stands out with its high-pitched auditory feedback and potentially smoother actuation, attracting enthusiasts who enjoy a more distinctive acoustic profile and the sensation of seamless keystrokes. Depending on your priorities, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a balanced typing experience, the Neo White is an excellent option thanks to its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams and its mild characteristics that deliver a gentle feel. This makes it a versatile choice, suitable for both typing and gaming, whether you’re using your keyboard at home or in a professional setting. Additionally, the smooth actuation provided by the rare Ly stem offers a satisfying experience in each keystroke. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a more expressive auditory experience, the Bsun Taichi linear switch might be more to your liking. Its high-pitched bottom-out sound and specially designed long-pole stem create a unique auditory profile, enhancing your typing experience with an emphasis on stability and smoothness. Therefore, if sound and an enchanting typing feel are your priorities, you might lean towards the Taichi switch. Ultimately, consider your typing style and environment: go for the Neo White for a well-rounded and neutral experience, or opt for the Taichi if you're looking for a switch that offers character and notable audio feedback.