TTC Flaming Purple vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Flaming Purple and the Neo Lavender HE offers a unique blend of tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The TTC Flaming Purple is celebrated for its linear design, offering a smooth keystroke with a bottom-out force of just 47g, making it lightweight and ideal for both enthusiasts and everyday typists. Its slightly bassy sound signature adds a vibrant auditory element, providing a poppy undertone that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE stands out with its hall effect technology, delivering a clean, low sound that pairs seamlessly with Wooting keyboards. This switch brings a different flavor to the table, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle auditory profile. While the Flaming Purple leans towards a more resonant and engaging experience, the Neo Lavender HE offers an understated, refined sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Neo Lavender HE, significant differences can be observed in their respective top housings. The Flaming Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This characteristic ensures that the sound emitted when releasing a key is clear and resonant, making it particularly appealing for users who prefer a more defined auditory feedback. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, which tends to provide a deeper and fuller sound. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound vibrations, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the Flaming Purple excels in clarity and brightness, the Lavender HE offers a warmer and more enveloping sound when the key is actuated.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, tell a different story since they both consist of nylon, a classic housing material. Both the Flaming Purple and the Lavender HE share the attributes of nylon, which enhances the depth and fullness of the typing experience. This shared characteristic means that when a user presses down on either switch, they can expect a somewhat similar tactile feedback and sound profile thanks to the nylon bottom housing. The impact of this material is particularly notable during the bottom-out phase of the keypress, where nylon's sound absorption capabilities contribute to a more muted feel compared to the crisper response from the polycarbonate top housing of the Flaming Purple.
In essence, while the TTC Flaming Purple and Neo Lavender HE differ significantly in their top housing materials—configuring their overall sound profile—their shared nylon bottom housing aligns them in terms of the deeper auditory quality experienced when bottoming out the switch. This dichotomy allows users to appreciate two different auditory character traits in a single switch experience; the Flaming Purple is vibrant and clear on key release, while the Lavender HE maintains a softer and warmer experience throughout. Ultimately, those who appreciate varying sound profiles have the opportunity to enjoy distinct yet complementary auditory experiences based on the housing material combination used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Purple requires an actuation force of 42 grams and has a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the Lavender HE has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are considered light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming marathons. However, the Flaming Purple is marginally heavier in terms of actuation force, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down to trigger a keystroke, while the Lavender HE has a slightly lighter actuation. In terms of bottom out forces, the Lavender HE is heavier, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced feedback when reaching the switch’s maximum travel. Ultimately, while both switches offer a light experience, the Flaming Purple lends itself to a marginally heftier feel while actuating, whereas the Lavender HE provides a heavier resistance when bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lavender HE has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference may impact the feel and responsiveness of each switch; the shorter Flaming Purple may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, whereas the Lavender HE may provide a more tactile depth for users who prefer a more gradual key press. Overall, those who enjoy a more responsive experience might gravitate towards the Flaming Purple, while those who appreciate a heartier feel in their keystrokes might opt for the Lavender HE.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Purple switch delivers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by its bass-heavy and resonant qualities. The low-pitched sound profile, almost leaning towards a poppy underscoring, makes typing engaging and lively, giving each keystroke a robust presence. This auditory character can immerse the typist and can be enhanced or altered by your choice of keyboard and keycaps. On the other hand, the sound signature of the Neo Lavender HE remains less defined, as there isn't detailed information available on its auditory qualities. However, it's noted for having a clean and low sound, setting it apart from typical switches, especially as it is designed for use with Wooting keyboards.
When considering the feel of these switches, the TTC Flaming Purple excels with its feathery touch, making it notably effortless to press. The light actuation force of 47 grams allows for extended periods of typing without significant finger fatigue, providing a comfortable experience that suits both gamers and typists. The silky smoothness in the actuation promotes an enjoyable typing rhythm. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE lacks detailed descriptions regarding its tactile feedback, leaving its feel somewhat ambiguous.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple switch stands out with its engaging sound profile and exceptional typing feel marked by lightness and smoothness, making it a strong choice for those who prioritize both auditory and tactile enjoyment in their typing experience. While the Neo Lavender HE offers a clean sound, further insights into its feel would be needed to make a complete comparison. As a newcomer, expect to enjoy the unique qualities of the Flaming Purple, and consider the Lavender HE if you desire an alternative that may fit a different auditory preference or keyboard configuration, despite current ambiguities in its characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a lighter keystroke with an engaging auditory experience, the Flaming Purple is likely your best bet. Its 47-gram bottom-out force, combined with its resonant and slightly bassy sound profile, makes it an excellent choice for both typists and gamers who seek a smooth, effortless feel and expressive sound. You will appreciate its feathery touch, especially during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you are after a clean and straightforward typing experience with the added benefits of magnetic technology, the Neo Lavender HE might be the switch for you. While slightly heavier at 50 grams, it provides a consistent and low-sound profile that works exceptionally well with Wooting keyboards, enhancing accuracy and responsiveness in your typing and gaming endeavors. Consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s sound, feel, or compatibility—with these insights to guide your choice.
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