Haimu Neo White vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Neo White stands out for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing experience with a smooth actuation. On the other hand, the Wine Red offers a pillowy light feel and a deep, rich sound profile while typing. The Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', while the Wine Red is 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own appeal, catering to different preferences in typing sensation. 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
44g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Wine Red, it can be seen that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially beneficial if RGB lighting is to be utilized. However, the differences arise when looking at the bottom housing material of each switch.
The Neo White's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrasts with the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing, which like its top housing, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The split between these housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the Neo White offering a more muffled typing experience compared to the sharper sound of the Wine Red.
While the differences in bottom housing material between the Neo White and Wine Red create distinct typing experiences, the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in similar sound characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Those who prefer a sharper, crisper sound may lean towards the Wine Red, while those who enjoy a deeper, fuller sound may find the Neo White more appealing. Regardless of choice, the housing materials of these switches play a key role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two. The Neo White has a lower actuation force of None grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neo White requires 58 grams, while the Wine Red needs 55 grams, making the latter slightly lighter. The Neo White provides a medium actuation force and bottom out force, while the Wine Red falls into the medium-light category. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the user's preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience. Both switches offer a similar typing feel, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will achieve comparable results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Wine Red linear switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Neo White due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Wine Red. Both options offer varying travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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
In terms of sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is considered neutral, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Neo White offering a more neutral sound and the Wine Red providing a more bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch is not available. However, based on the description of the sound profile being pillowy light, it can be inferred that the feel may also offer a soft and cushioned typing experience.
Both the Haimu Neo White and the KTT Wine Red switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Neo White provides a smooth actuation and neutral sound profile, the Wine Red offers a deep and rich bassy sound with a potentially soft and cushioned typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches are likely to offer a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Haimu Neo White linear switch is the way to go. The Neo White's unique feel, slightly reduced travel distance, and smooth actuation make it a great choice for both beginners and advanced users alike. On the other hand, if you prefer a pillowy light typing feel with a deep and rich sound profile, then the KTT Wine Red linear switch is the one for you. The Wine Red's low bottom out force and bass-heavy sound make it a great option for those looking for a more unique typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will come down to your preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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