Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Neo Lavender HE

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Neo Lavender HE stand out for their unique characteristics and the distinct typing experiences they offer. The Gateron Ink Yellow is noted for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing feel that strikes a balance between the convenience of laptop keyboards and the tactile feedback of standard mechanical options. Its smoothness combined with a pleasant clackiness makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a moderately engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE introduces an innovative take on keyboard mechanics with its Hall effect technology, delivering a clean, low sound that is particularly appealing for users seeking a quieter workspace. These switches not only cater to different preferences in sound and feel but also serve specific needs, whether it's a polished, lively typing experience or a subdued, silent interaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

Neo Lavender HE Hall Effect

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$4.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Yellow and the Neo Lavender HE switches utilize distinct housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound profile that is often characterized as pointed and clacky. This high-pitched sound generates a bright typing experience that many users find satisfying, especially in a gaming or typing context where audible feedback is preferred. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE employs nylon for its top and bottom housings, lending itself to a much fuller and deeper sound profile. Nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb sound more efficiently than harder plastics, producing a rounder audio experience during typing.

While both switches exhibit unique sounds due to their differing materials, the impact of their housings can be felt differently depending on how one engages with each switch. In the case of the Ink Yellow, users will notice a thin and precise sound when releasing a key, influenced heavily by its clack-producing INK blend top housing. Conversely, the Lavender HE's nylon housing contributes to a dampened sound profile that tends to resonate more softly in the user's hands, emphasizing the cushioned typing feel associated with its deeper sound. Thus, the character of the sound produced during typing with each switch is dependent on the interplay between the top and bottom housings supporting their distinct audio profiles.

However, despite these differences in housing materials and the resulting sound profiles, users can achieve similar sensations by understanding how each material impacts the overall typing experience. The Ink Yellow provides clarity and responsiveness, while the Lavender HE offers a more muted and warm experience. Therefore, even if the sounds are distinctly different, the satisfaction derived from tactile feedback can be akin between the two, as both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in complementary ways. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, highlighting the variety of experiences available in the realm of mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying preferences in typing experience. The Ink Yellow switch has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Lavender HE switch boasts a lighter actuation force of just 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This significant difference means that the Ink Yellow requires more force to actuate, providing a more substantial push feel for users who prefer that heavier typing experience. Conversely, the Lavender HE is easier to press, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. Overall, the Gateron Ink Yellow is the heavier switch, while the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter choice, appealing to those who favor a softer touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we find that the Ink Yellow features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means the Ink Yellow is the shorter option, resulting in a more responsive feel that some gamers might prefer for quicker key presses. In contrast, the Lavender HE, with its longer distance, offers a deeper travel experience which might be more satisfying for those who appreciate a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that provides faster response times, the Ink Yellow would be the better choice, while the Lavender HE may appeal to those who favor a more robust typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer a unique auditory experience characterized by a clacky, crisp, and percussive profile that is both engaging and sharp. The neutral sound aspect makes them versatile for different environments, ensuring they adapt well whether used in an office or at home. The shorter travel distance also contributes to this sound profile, allowing for a quick and responsive experience. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE switches produce a clean, low sound that is distinct from standard mechanical switches, creating an overall more subdued auditory environment. While both switches have their own charm, the Ink Yellow's clacky nature strikes a more pronounced presence than the subtle tones of the Lavender HE.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow is recognized for its mild and polished characteristics. The mildness of the switch ensures a more gentle typing experience, making it approachable for users of varying skill levels, while the polished finish provides an exceptionally smooth key travel that significantly enhances the overall tactile sensation. This makes the Ink Yellows suitable for prolonged typing sessions without the fatigue associated with more aggressive switches. The Neo Lavender HE switches, however, don’t have detailed descriptions available regarding their tactile feel, leaving a gap in comparing the nuance of their tactile response against the polished finish of the Ink Yellows.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a delightful blend of sound and feel, characterized by a clacky profile and a polished, mild typing experience that suits a range of users. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is noted for its low sound signature, which might appeal to those looking for a quieter experience, but lacks detailed feedback on its feel qualities. Each switch caters to different preferences, allowing newcomers to select based on priorities such as auditory engagement or subdued acoustics in conjunction with tactile experience. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate which switch may feel more comfortable or enjoyable, but those who appreciate a more pronounced sound will likely lean toward the Ink Yellow, while those seeking a quieter operation might gravitate toward the Lavender HE.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, your decision should hinge on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that provides a satisfying clacky sound combined with a smooth feel, the Ink Yellow may be the ideal choice for you—especially if you enjoy a typing experience that balances the familiarity of a standard mechanical keyboard with the ergonomics of a laptop. This switch is also versatile enough for both work and casual gaming environments. On the other hand, if you desire a lighter touch and a clean, low sound, the Lavender HE switch is worth considering, particularly if you're using a Wooting keyboard. It offers a unique hall effect mechanism that can enrich your experience with its smooth actuation and softly responsive feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you appreciate the weight and auditory feedback of clackiness or the subtlety and responsiveness of a lighter switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Neo Lavender HE Hall Effect

$4.50 per 10

Learn more