HMX Hibiscus vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer unique experiences. The HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force and an exceptionally smooth tactile experience, making it a favorite for those who prioritize a quick and effortless keystroke. Its satisfying clacky, poppy sound signature further enhances the typing experience, providing an auditory feedback that many typists cherish. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE switch introduces the innovative technology of Hall effect sensing, producing a clean, low sound that is notably quieter than traditional mechanical switches. This makes it an appealing choice for users in shared workspaces or anyone seeking a more discreet keyboard experience. While both switches present compelling reasons to choose them, the Hibiscus leans towards an engaging tactile and auditory typing feel, while the Lavender HE offers silent precision with cutting-edge performance. 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
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the Neo Lavender HE switches both feature nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings, which means they share a fundamental quality that influences their acoustic characteristics. This nylon construction allows both switches to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting from the material's softer nature compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a muted auditory experience, with the nylon effectively absorbing sound waves to create a duller and rounder sound. The acoustic consistency is likely to be present in both switches, giving them a similar feel when typing, as the construction promotes sound dampening.
Even though both the Hibiscus and the Lavender HE switches utilize identical materials for their housings, the user experience may vary slightly due to other design elements outside the housing itself, such as the switch mechanics and the spring used within. However, the fundamental nylon composition ensures that both switches prioritize sound absorption and dampening, so users will find that the characteristics derived from the material are consistently represented across both models. With similar housings, the full sound profile created during typing, characterized by a depth and richness, will remain a shared feature.
In conclusion, while there may be nuances in performance attributed to different factors outside of the housing materials, the HMX Hibiscus and Neo Lavender HE switches offer a comparable typing experience largely due to their shared nylon top and bottom housings. This uniformity in material allows both switches to yield similar acoustic results, reinforcing the distinct qualities of the nylon that appeal to keyboard enthusiasts. Consequently, users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience characterized by a soft yet resonant sound that is appealing for both casual and intensive use.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we find notable similarities and slight differences. The Hibiscus switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lavender HE switch features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are regarded as light options, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. However, in terms of specific attributes, the Lavender HE switch is marginally lighter in actuation force but has a higher bottom out force compared to the Hibiscus. This means that while users can enjoy a comfortable typing experience with both, the Hibiscus may provide a slightly less resistant feel at the bottom stage, potentially making it the preferred choice for individuals who favor a softer touch overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, the Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lavender HE offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. As a result, the Hibiscus is the shorter option, appealing more to gamers who prefer quicker response times due to its reduced distance. In contrast, the Lavender HE, with its greater travel distance, provides a more pronounced keypress that some users prefer for a fuller tactile experience. Both switches fall within the modern range of travel distances, with the Hibiscus catering to those who favor speed and the Lavender HE appealing to users who appreciate a deeper feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch is celebrated for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, providing a dynamic auditory experience that many find enjoyable during typing sessions. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is known for producing a clean, low sound that offers a more subdued auditory profile. This difference in sound character can significantly influence user preference, as the Hibiscus switches may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing, while the Lavender HE caters to users seeking a quieter and more discreet experience. It’s essential to remember that the overall sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which adds further nuance to each switch's acoustic performance.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switches are recognized for their unparalleled smoothness that provides a pristine typing experience, setting them apart as a luxurious option among mechanical switches. Users often revel in the ultra-light actuation force that makes each keystroke feel effortless. On the other hand, the feel of the Neo Lavender HE is not explicitly detailed in the provided information, leaving some uncertainty in this aspect. However, like many magnetic switches, it likely provides a unique tactile response that could differ from traditional switches, appealing to users who appreciate the nuances of hall effect technology.
In summary, the HMX Hibiscus and Neo Lavender HE switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Hibiscus offers a vibrant, clacky auditory experience complemented by a notably smooth typing action, making them ideal for those who relish clear and tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Lavender HE presents a quieter, more elegant sound profile, although its feel remains less defined. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize acoustic feedback or prefer a more subdued environment, but both switches promise to enhance your typing experience based on their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value an ultra-smooth typing experience with a lighter touch and a charming clacky, poppy sound signature, the Hibiscus is likely the better option for you. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter actuation, whether for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons where rapid key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more subdued typing experience with a clean, low sound that emphasizes precision and works seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, the Lavender HE switch should be your go-to choice. With a slightly firmer bottom-out force of 50 grams, it provides a stable feel that might appeal to users who appreciate a touch more resistance. Ultimately, it’s all about balancing your desire for tactile feedback, sound signature, and the specific applications you plan to use your mechanical keyboard for. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and the ambiance you want to create, and you're sure to enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
