KTT Kang White vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White 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 KTT Kang White and the Neo Lavender HE present intriguing options that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Kang White is a poppy linear switch renowned for its dazzling typing sound and remarkable smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. Its low-pitched and neutral characteristics provide a satisfying and gentle feel during use, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without the tactile feedback of a clicky switch. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE utilizes a unique hall effect mechanism, offering a clean, low sound that sets it apart from conventional switches. The Lavender HE is particularly notable for its compatibility with Wooting keyboards, appealing to avid gamers and typists alike who seek precision and responsiveness. Both switches have their own merits, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the smooth linear action of the Kang White or the innovative hall effect technology of the Lavender HE. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Kang White and the Neo Lavender HE switch housings, it's clear that the two have quite different top materials, which leads to distinct auditory profiles. The KTT Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material enhances the switch's resonance, providing a crisp auditory experience, particularly effective when RGB lighting is in play due to its clear construction. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, a material characterized by its softer nature, which tends to absorb sound more effectively. Consequently, the sound profile is deeper and fuller, creating a more rounded auditory experience. This fundamental difference in materials impacts how each switch performs and feels during use.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, share a commonality—both utilize nylon. This material is recognized for its ability to deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile, contributing to a less sharp auditory effect when typing. Since both the Kang White and Lavender HE switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, this aspect ensures that users will experience consistent acoustic characteristics when pressing down on the keys. The nylon material absorbs sound, producing a dampened resonance that contrasts with the clear presence of the polycarbonate top on the Kang White. This leads to a unique interplay where the bottom housing's characteristics will have a pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel while the two switches differ in the tonal qualities imparted by their respective top materials.
Understanding the interaction between the differing top and bottom housings is crucial to grasping how each switch ultimately performs. In the Kang White, the polycarbonate top contributes to the mechanical feedback felt during key releases, enhancing the clarity of sound when the key is released, while the nylon bottom rounds out the experience with its muting properties. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE's nylon top maintains a consistent sound profile with the nylon bottom, creating an overall smoother sound experience upon pressing and releasing keys. A user looking for sharp, clear tones may prefer the Kang White, while those seeking a warm, deeper sound may appreciate the Lavender HE. Despite these differences, the shared nylon material in the bottom housings ensures that the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound will resonate similarly across both switches, thereby creating a balanced experience no matter the choice of top housing.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Kang White features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Lavender HE a preferable choice for users who desire a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Meanwhile, the Kang White, being heavier, provides a more substantial tactile experience that some users might prefer for its feedback. Overall, while both switches serve distinct user preferences—lighter for comfort and longer use versus heavier for tactile feedback—the Kang White is the heavier option, and the Lavender HE is the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Kang White features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options, while the Lavender HE has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This 0.2 mm difference may seem minimal, but it can significantly impact the overall feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers often lean towards the Lavender HE for its reduced travel distance, which allows for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may favor the Kang White for its deeper travel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more pronounced tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99, whereas the Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50.
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 considering the sound profile of the KTT Kang White linear switch, users can expect a uniquely pleasing auditory experience characterized by a low-pitched and neutral tone. This makes the Kang White an excellent choice for those who prefer a richer, bass-heavy sound that remains appropriate for a variety of settings, from casual use to professional environments. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a clean and low sound, which can lend itself to a more minimalist auditory profile. While both options cater to different sound preferences, they may ultimately deliver similar results if combined with the right keyboard and keycaps, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience tailored to individual tastes.
The feel of the Kang White switch is renowned for its smooth action, primarily attributed to its self-lubricating material. This smoothness enhances typing comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the feel of the Lavender HE remains unspecified, leaving it to mystery until more information becomes available. However, if the Lavender HE does provide a satisfying tactile experience compatible with its sound, it could appeal to a wide range of users, similar to the Kang White's allure.
In summary, both the KTT Kang White and Neo Lavender HE switches bring distinct qualities to the table. The Kang White's impressive low-pitched sound and exceptional smoothness establish it as an enticing option for those who want both auditory pleasure and fluid typing. The Neo Lavender HE, with its clean low sound, presents an intriguing alternative, though its tactile feel remains undefined for now. Users looking for a satisfying mechanical experience will find in these switches an excellent selection, with some shared characteristics that can complement various preferences and setups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch comes down to your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you're someone who appreciates a medium bottom-out force coupled with a delightful poppy typing sound and an exceptionally smooth keypress due to self-lubricating materials, the Kang White would be an excellent choice for you. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy a richer auditory experience while typing and want a balance of feedback without excessive pressure. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, along with a clean and quiet sound profile that distinguishes the Neo Lavender HE from traditional switches, then this is the better option for your setup. Additionally, if you're using or plan to use a Wooting keyboard, the Lavender HE offers unique benefits that enhance your overall experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only your tactile and auditory preferences but also the contexts in which you’ll be using your keyboard most frequently.
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