Haimu Neo White vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Type A both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Neo White stands out for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing feel with a smooth actuation thanks to its Ly stem. Categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', this switch is great for those looking for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers an innovative take on traditional travel distances and factory lubing techniques. With a medium-weight feel and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum, it is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, so it's important to dive deeper into their specific characteristics to determine which one suits your needs best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Type A, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience when it comes to the sound and feel of bottoming out keys on both switches. However, the differences lie in the top housing material. The Neo White utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is in contrast to the Type A, which features a nylon top housing that provides a duller and rounder sound.
Furthermore, the choice of housing material in a switch can also affect the overall aesthetics and functionality. The translucent nature of polycarbonate used in the Neo White's top housing makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the opaque nature of nylon used in the Type A's housing may not allow for as much light diffusion, resulting in a more subtle lighting experience. While both materials offer their own unique benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired aesthetics when choosing between the two switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Type A play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Neo White creates a clearer and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Type A produces a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in the bottom housing material ensure a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out keys on both switches. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with visual flair or a deeper sound profile with a more subtle aesthetic, your choice between the two switches will be influenced by the housing materials used in each.
Weight
The Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have different characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Neo White has an actuation force of None grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is not specified, while the Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Neo White requires 58 grams to fully press down, while the Type A only needs 55 grams. This makes the Type A switch slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Neo White. The lighter actuation force of the Type A may be preferred by those who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, while the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Neo White could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Neo White has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type A switch. The Neo White's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type A's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Type A being on the slightly longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feedback and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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, both switches offer a neutral profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. However, the Gateron Type A edges out slightly with a more subdued sound, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by these switches can be influenced by other factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.
Moving on to feel, the Haimu Neo White provides a mild typing experience, offering a smooth actuation and medium weight that appeals to many users. On the other hand, information on the typing feel of the Gateron Type A is not available. However, considering it is positioned as a medium-weight switch, it is likely to offer a similar smooth and responsive feel as the Neo White.
In conclusion, both the Haimu Neo White and the Gateron Type A linear switches share similar qualities in terms of sound and potentially in typing feel. The Neo White stands out with its medium weight, smooth actuation, and slightly reduced travel distance, while the Type A offers a unique sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and potentially typing feel, making it important for newcomers to try out both switches before making a decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you prioritize a smooth actuation and medium weight with slightly reduced total travel, the Neo White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side and factory lubing techniques, the Type A could be more up your alley. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginner or advanced. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences and needs when determining which switch would best suit your mechanical keyboard setup.
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