Haimu Neo White vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences. The Neo White switches are celebrated for their medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a responsive yet comfortable feel that many typists and gamers find appealing. Their rare Ly stem contributes to smooth actuation, resulting in keystrokes that are both satisfying and mild in sound. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switches bring an innovative twist to the linear switch design through the incorporation of ball-bearings which significantly reduce friction, allowing for an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The medium-high pitched sound of these switches adds a distinct auditory signature that some users may prefer over the more subdued sound of the Neo Whites. Ultimately, while both switches are great choices for those seeking a linear typing experience, their distinct mechanisms and feel may cater to different preferences and styles of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Neo White and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl employ different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct auditory experiences. The Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting, as its clear nature enhances luminosity. In contrast, the WS Pearl is equipped with a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. Consequently, switches with nylon housings produce deeper, fuller sounds that feel more rounded. While the distinctly different top housing materials contribute to contrasting sound characteristics, the overall typing experience can still yield satisfying results depending on personal preferences for sound and aesthetics.
Both the Neo White and the WS Pearl utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which brings a sense of consistency to the typing experience. The use of nylon in both cases leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as each switch absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can anticipate a certain level of auditory cohesion, primarily due to the nylon's properties that emphasize a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the shared characteristics of the nylon bottoms provide a familiar tactile and auditory response that can mask some of the differences created by the top housing materials.
In essence, the combination of materials in each switch creates a blend of sound profiles that caters to different user preferences. For those who favor a sharper and more resonant sound, the Haimu Neo White's polycarbonate top may be more appealing. Conversely, users who seek a softer, fuller sound may gravitate toward the WS Pearl's nylon top. However, since both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, the depth and warmth of sound will feel consistent to users, regardless of their choice. This makes either switch a potential fit for those who appreciate the benefits of nylon's sound-absorbing qualities, highlighting how subtle variations in top materials can alter the overall auditory experience while still delivering cohesive results.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces present both similarities and differences that cater to distinct user preferences. The Neo White has an unknown actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is classified as medium. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and shares the same bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while the Neo White's actuation force remains unspecified, users would experience a similar bottoming out feel between the two switches, given that they both bottom out at 58 grams. However, the WS Pearl's lighter actuation force will likely appeal to those who prefer a more effortless keystroke, particularly beneficial for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Neo White potentially offers a different feel due to its unknown actuation force, possibly leaning towards a heavier push if we consider it in context with the similar bottom out measurement. Consequently, for a more substantial typing experience, users may find the Neo White more appealing, whereas the WS Pearl caters to those who prefer lighter switches.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Neo White the longer option and the WS Pearl the shorter, imparting different feel experiences when pressed. For gamers seeking faster response times, the WS Pearl may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke experience might prefer the Neo White, which provides a bit more depth with its travel. While both switches feature relatively short travel distances by traditional standards, their slight difference could significantly affect user preference based on the tactile experience one seeks.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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, characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement that makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or experienced typists. This neutrality allows the switch to blend seamlessly into most environments—perfect for both personal and professional settings. The WS Pearl, on the other hand, has a medium-high pitched sound signature resulting from its unique design. While both switches are relatively quiet due to their linear nature, the WS Pearl's distinct pitch may require more consideration in noise-sensitive environments.
In terms of feel, the Neo White switch provides a mild typing experience. This means it strikes a balance that is approachable for virtually anyone, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more gentle keystroke without overwhelming characteristics. The smooth actuation provided by the Ly stem adds to the overall comfortable feel. Conversely, the WS Pearl is noted for its incredible smoothness, primarily attributed to the use of ball-bearings to reduce friction during keystrokes. This unique design results in an extremely fluid typing experience, which some users may find surpasses the already pleasant feel of the Neo White.
In summary, while both the Haimu Neo White and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches prioritize smoothness, they each cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Neo White's neutral sound and milder feel make it a versatile choice for general use, while the WS Pearl offers a distinctive high-pitched sound and an unparalleled smoothness ideal for enthusiasts seeking a standout typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a pleasant typing experience with the option of either switch, both will deliver satisfying results, though they do have their unique characteristics to consider.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the Haimu Neo White linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and use case. If you value a well-balanced typing experience that offers a neutral sound profile and a slight reduction in travel distance, the Neo White could be the perfect match for you. Its smooth actuation, attributed to its unique Ly stem, makes it a great choice for a variety of tasks, whether you're typing at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, if you're looking for an exceptionally smooth keystroke that feels almost surreal, the WS Pearl's innovative ball-bearing design is worth considering. With its medium-high pitched sound signature, it can provide a unique auditory experience alongside its ultra-smooth feel. In essence, if you prefer an accessible and mild typing experience that feels approachable to most users, go for the Neo White. Conversely, if you’re enthusiastic about a unique feel and sound that reflects a more advanced mechanism, the WS Pearl should be your choice.
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