Bsun Cliff vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Cliff and the Neo Lavender HE each offer unique features that cater to different user preferences. The Cliff tactile switches are renowned for their medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making them an excellent choice for typists who appreciate tactile feedback without excessive noise. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE switches are distinguished by their clean, low sound, providing a quieter typing experience while utilizing innovative hall effect technology, specially designed to work seamlessly with Wooting keyboards. If you value tactile sensation and audible feedback, the Cliff may be the better option, whereas the Lavender HE might be ideal for those prioritizing a quieter workspace and smoother keypresses. 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the Neo Lavender HE switches feature distinct materials for their top housings, which greatly influence their sound profiles. The Cliff utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. This heightened auditory experience is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances resonance and clarity. A clear polycarbonate top not only facilitates a more vibrant sound but also allows RGB lighting to effectively shine through, making it an aesthetically appealing choice for users seeking a visually engaging keyboard. In contrast, the Lavender HE's top housing is made of nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound rather than reflect it. This softer plastic creates a deeper, fuller audio signature, giving users a more muted and rounded keystroke experience.
When we scrutinize the bottom housings of both switches, however, we find that they are similar, as both the Bsun Cliff and Neo Lavender HE employ nylon. This shared material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. Therefore, regardless of the top housing disparity, the bottom housing of both switches will highlight a similar acoustic experience characterized by a duller bottoming-out sound. In this way, the sound performance during key presses maintains uniformity across both models, further enhancing the user experience.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and Neo Lavender HE create two unique sound profiles, but the similarities in their bottom housings ensure that a cohesive auditory experience is preserved. Users may enjoy the clear, crisp tones when releasing a key from the Cliff, while also benefiting from the deep, rounded effect provided by the nylon bottoms in both switches during key presses. This blend of textures and sounds underscores the importance of material choice in keyboard design, as it shapes both the tactile and auditory elements of the typing experience. In summary, while the top housing differences pave the way for unique acoustic characteristics, the shared bottom housing material guarantees consistent sound performance, allowing users to find satisfaction in both options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, both switches are considered light, but they do have slight differences in force specifications. The Bsun Cliff switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Neo Lavender HE switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Cliff requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Lavender HE, making it the lighter option. In contrast, enthusiasts who prefer a more substantial feel when typing might lean towards the slightly heavier Lavender HE switch. Both switches, while differing in their forces, provide a relatively comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use, but those looking for a lighter touch might prefer the Bsun Cliff for longer sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we see a slight difference in performance. The Bsun Cliff features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Neo Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Cliff the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that might appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE, with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance, caters to those who prefer a more substantial depth that can enhance typing satisfaction. As such, if you're looking for more responsiveness, the Cliff would be the better choice, whereas the Lavender HE may be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper, more traditional typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a crisp, pronounced auditory feedback, providing a distinct sound that many typists and gamers appreciate. This medium sound signature is likely to bring a satisfying acoustical element to your typing experience. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is known for its clean and low sound, delivering a more subdued auditory experience. The quieter response of the Lavender HE may appeal to those who prefer a more discreet typing environment. It's important to remember, though, that the overall sound profile will vary depending on various factors such as the keyboard build and keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch is characterized by its medium tactility, providing a noticeable bump that helps users identify the actuation point without having to bottom out the switch. This tactile feedback enhances the typing experience by adding an engaging tactile response. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE offers a different sensation, though specifics of its feel are not detailed here. Generally, hall effect switches tend to provide a smooth keystroke as they use magnetic actuation, which could result in a unique typing experience when compared to conventional tactile switches.
In summary, both switches have their own distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch caters to those who enjoy a crisp sound and medium tactile feedback, making it well-suited for lively typing sessions. The Neo Lavender HE, with its clean and low sound, offers a quieter experience that may appeal to users looking for discretion. While the feel of the Lavender HE switch remains unspecified, its smooth operation will likely offer a different, yet enjoyable, alternative to the tactile nature of the Cliff. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you’re looking for. If you enjoy a lighter actuation with a medium tactility and appreciate a crisp sound signature while typing, the Cliff switch is an excellent choice. It’s particularly fantastic for those who type frequently, as it aids in reducing finger fatigue while still allowing for an engaging tactile response. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and seek a clean, low sound experience, the Neo Lavender HE switch might be more suited for you. This switch excels in providing a smooth, linear feel, making it ideal for gamers who value swift keystrokes and a quieter environment, as it works seamlessly with Wooting keyboards thanks to its unique magnetic design. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize tactile feedback and an enjoyable auditory experience or a smooth, low-resistance feel during fast-paced actions.
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