Haimu Neo White vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, both linear switches. The Neo White switch is known for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing feel that is smooth and satisfying due to the rare use of a Ly stem. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing, offering typists a smooth and creamy feel reminiscent of its dessert namesake, along with a distinctive high-pitched and clacky sound signature. The Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', while the Vanilla Ice Cream is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal to different preferences, 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
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics. The Neo White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a proprietary KTT blend top housing which produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the clear polycarbonate of the Neo White allows for RGB lighting, making it an ideal choice for those looking to personalize their setup aesthetically.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the two switches become even more apparent. The Neo White employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the contrary, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK bottom housing, which boasts exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material's wear resistance surpasses that of nylon and POM, making it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting switch.
While the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique qualities, their overall impact on the switch's sound profile and feel is equally important. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when the key is released. Whether opting for the sharp and resonant characteristics of polycarbonate in the Neo White or the smooth and clacky feel of POK in the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that they differ in weight. The Neo White has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is heavier than the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams. The actuation force of the Neo White is not specified, while the Vanilla Ice Cream requires 43 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Vanilla Ice Cream may be the better choice due to its lower bottom out force. Alternatively, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Neo White with its higher bottom out force. In either case, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience, with the lighter force offering a smoother typing experience and the heavier force providing a more tactile feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is slightly longer at 3.6 mm compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch at 3.5 mm. While the 0.1 mm might seem insignificant, it can make a difference in the typing experience. The Neo White switch offers a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of short travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the market. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 it comes to sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that stands out from the crowd, offering a crisp and sharp typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound, each switch delivers a distinct auditory experience that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch provides a mild typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users, offering a gentle and approachable feel. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke that mimics the texture of its namesake dessert. Depending on your preference for typing feel, each switch provides a unique tactile sensation that can improve your overall typing comfort and enjoyment.
In conclusion, both the Haimu Neo White and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neo White provides a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream delivers a high-pitched sound signature and a buttery, creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both options offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to individual tastes. Whether you choose the Neo White or the Vanilla Ice Cream, you can expect a smooth actuation and a unique typing experience that will enhance your overall mechanical keyboard usage.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a creamy, buttery feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch would be the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you are looking for when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your needs and preferences.
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