Haimu Neo White vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch stand out for their unique characteristics. The Neo White switch offers a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, resulting in a smooth and satisfying typing experience with its use of a Ly stem for smooth actuation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch provides a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, along with a whisper-quiet sound profile. Both switches have their own appeal, with the Neo White being categorized as mild and neutral and the U4 as muted, low-pitched, and sharp. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Gazzew U4, one noticeable difference is the top housing material used. The Neo White utilizes polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials contribute to enhancing the overall sound, the polycarbonate in the Neo White emphasizes clarity, while the Gazzew blend in the U4 focuses on depth.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Neo White and the U4 utilize softer plastics to enhance sound profiles. The Neo White features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness and sound absorption capabilities. Similarly, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing creates a rich and deep sound profile, also benefiting from the softness of the material. Despite using different materials for the bottom housing, both switches aim to provide a more rounded and dull sound that complements the sharpness or depth of the top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the Neo White and the U4 plays a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the Neo White's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the U4's Gazzew blend top housing, both switches aim to provide a clear and resonant sound experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Neo White and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 contribute to creating a deeper and fuller sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a lighter actuation force, as it requires None grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neo White requires 58 grams, while the U4 requires 62 grams, making the U4 slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neo White may be the preferred choice, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the U4 with its slightly heavier bottom out force may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is exactly the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance before reaching the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results and feel from both switches, as they offer the same level of keypress distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Neo White or the U4, you can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 profile which is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound that is ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Neo White being more versatile and the U4 being more subdued and bass-heavy.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch provides a mild typing experience that appeals to a broader range of users due to its safe and middle-ground characteristics. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump that delivers intense feedback with each keypress. Those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response may find the U4 switch to be more satisfying, while the Neo White switch provides a gentler typing experience that can be enjoyed by many.
Overall, the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neo White switch provides a smooth and medium-weight typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the U4 switch delivers a sharp tactile bump and a whisper-quiet, low-pitched sound. Depending on your preferences for typing feel and sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to a variety of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a more versatile and mild typing experience or a more intense and tactile response in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke with a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, then the Neo White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, then the U4 could be the perfect fit. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, the Neo White is a great option, while the U4 offers a muted and low-pitched sound. Keep in mind that the Neo White offers a mild typing experience, while the U4 provides a sharp and intense tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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