Cherry MX Brown vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they offer unique typing experiences suited for different preferences. The MX Brown is praised for its subtle tactile feedback and light typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a gentle bump in each keystroke. On the other hand, the Neo White stands out for its slightly heavier weight and smooth actuation, providing a more satisfying and smooth typing experience. While the MX Brown is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Haimu Neo White, it is evident that the MX Brown features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Neo White has a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing of the MX Brown results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Neo White switch creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, with the polycarbonate top housing leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing, the difference in the top housing material leads to distinct sound characteristics.
However, despite the variation in housing materials between the Cherry MX Brown and the Haimu Neo White, both switches share similar qualities due to the use of nylon in the bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in the bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch. Although the top housing material differs between the two switches, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound quality.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between switches with different housing materials, such as the Cherry MX Brown and the Haimu Neo White, can result in varying sound profiles based on the distribution of nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings.
Weight
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Neo White has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, while the MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, with the MX Brown leaning towards the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the MX Brown may be the better choice, while the Neo White offers a more substantial push feel for a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Neo White slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the MX Brown. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Neo White might be the better option. On the other hand, the MX Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, whereas the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switches are described as having a more neutral sound, with a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for various purposes. The sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Brown switches are often described as textured, providing a tactile feedback that some may find appealing. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switches offer a milder typing experience, with a smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem. These switches strike a balance between gentle tactility and a satisfying keystroke, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown and Haimu Neo White switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Brown switches provide a subtler typing experience with a textured feel, while the Neo White switches deliver a medium weight and smooth actuation. Depending on whether you prefer a lighter tactile switch with a deeper sound profile or a smoother linear switch with a neutral sound, either option can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the final choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a light typing feel with subtle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the MX Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a smooth actuation and a mild overall feel, the Neo White could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall experience while using the keyboard.
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