PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Neo Lavender HE embody two distinct approaches to typing that cater to different user preferences. The Jacaranda is a linear switch renowned for its gentle bottom-out weight of 43.5g, which allows for effortless keystrokes and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. With its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, it provides crisp auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is designed to produce a clean, low sound, offering a more subdued typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer minimal noise distractions. Furthermore, the Lavender HE’s unique magnetic mechanism sets it apart in performance and compatibility, especially with Wooting keyboards. Each switch has its merits: the Jacaranda excels in providing a bouncy and responsive feeling ideal for fast typists, while the Lavender HE caters to users who prioritize a quieter, yet responsive keypress. 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
39g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POM
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Neo Lavender HE, a significant contrast arises from their top housing materials. The Jacaranda boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition, which enhances the switch’s sound profile by delivering a sharper and crisper auditory experience. This quality makes it particularly favorable for users who prioritize sound clarity and resonance in their typing experience. Conversely, the Neo Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, which generates a much deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and more subdued auditory feedback. Thus, while the Jacaranda leans towards a brighter sound, the Lavender HE presents a mellower auditory characteristic due to its different top housing material.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as they are both crafted from nylon. This consistency in material leads to similar dynamics in the typing feel and sound profile when the switch is pressed down. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a depth in sound, characterized by its ability to absorb vibrations and create a fuller auditory sensation. Both switches will thus share a degree of similarity in their bottom-out sounds, reflecting the classic qualities of nylon that users have come to appreciate. This shared material ensures that while the top housing distinctions might create differing auditory experiences, the bottom housing creates a unifying depth and consistency between the two.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housings is crucial in shaping the overall typing experience. With the Jacaranda’s polycarbonate top providing clarity and brightness combined with its nylon bottom’s fullness, users can experience a dynamic range of audibility. Meanwhile, the Lavender HE’s reliance on nylon for both top and bottom housings leads to a more consistent but rounded auditory experience that may appeal to different preferences. By understanding how each material affects sound and feel, users can better anticipate the typing experience tailored to their preferences, whether they favor a lively, crisp keystroke or a smooth, mellow response.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer a less intense typing experience. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lavender HE features a slightly stronger actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Jacaranda is marginally lighter than the Lavender HE, providing a slightly easier keystroke and bottoming out, which may appeal to those who engage in prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the Lavender HE still maintains a relatively light feel, ensuring that both switches can offer comfortable typing experiences despite the difference in force. Overall, if you're seeking something lighter and a bit more forgiving during long uses, the Jacaranda is the better option, whereas the Lavender HE provides a bit of extra resistance for those who prefer a more substantial push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda, with a travel distance of 3.5 mm, is the shorter option, while the Lavender HE offers a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Jacaranda's 3.5 mm travel distance aligns with contemporary preferences for quicker response times, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking rapid actuation. In contrast, the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Lavender HE provides a more pronounced and potentially satisfying tactile experience for users who appreciate a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: those who prefer a snappier feel may gravitate towards the Jacaranda, whereas those who value a more substantive key press might favor the Lavender HE.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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
When evaluating the sound characteristics of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, one cannot overlook its distinctly clacky profile. It produces a crisp, bright, and resonant tone that contributes to an engaging auditory experience with each keypress. This high-pitched sound can be especially appealing to users who enjoy a more sharp and percussive auditory feedback from their typing. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is noted for its clean, low sound. While specific descriptors for its sound profile are not detailed, it can be inferred that the quieter response may cater to users who prefer a subtler auditory experience. The sound produced by both switches will ultimately also depend on the keyboard build and keycap material used, suggesting that they can potentially coexist on the same spectrum of acoustic feedback.
Turning to the feel of each switch, the Jacaranda shines with its silky smooth action, which minimizes resistance and enhances the tactile experience. This smoothness not only makes typing comfortable and pleasurable but also aids in reducing finger fatigue, especially during prolonged use. The generous 22mm spring adds a unique bouncy sensation to every keystroke, further amplifying the overall responsiveness and delight in its operation. There is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Neo Lavender HE switch, making it difficult to compare directly. However, since it is known to function with Wooting keyboards, it likely offers at least a premium experience, though the exact tactile feedback remains unknown.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by its engaging clacky sound profile and buttery smooth feel, the Neo Lavender HE provides a quieter auditory experience with less specific data on its tactile sensations. The clarity of sound and smoothness of the Jacaranda create a typing experience that many may find enjoyable, whereas the Lavender HE aims for a more understated interaction. Ultimately, while both switches can cater to different preferences, users leaning towards more vibrant acoustics and smooth motion may favor the Jacaranda, while those inclined towards quieter environments might find the Lavender HE appealing.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that offers a light feeling with a bouncy and playful experience, the Jacaranda is an excellent choice. Its distinct clacky sound profile provides an engaging auditory feedback that can enhance your typing satisfaction, making it particularly appealing for casual typing, gaming, or for those who find joy in the sensation of distinctly audible keystrokes. On the other hand, if you want a cleaner and quieter environment, especially conducive to focused work or environments where noise might be an issue, the Neo Lavender HE is more suitable. Its low sound signature and smooth actuation make it a great option for long typing sessions, allowing you to maintain concentration while minimizing distractions. In the end, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it be the tactile experience of a bouncy, clacky switch or the smooth and subdued feel of a magnetic switch—so that you can find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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