Neo Lavender HE vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and specific typing experiences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, ensuring a smooth and quiet typing experience that differentiates it from other magnetic switches. In contrast, the HMX Lucky, a linear switch, features softer, glittery nylon housings that provide a lightweight and satisfying typing experience, making it an appealing option for users seeking a more neutral feel. Both switches cater to distinct typing styles: the Lavender HE offers a unique auditory profile while the Lucky aims for comfort and user satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and HMX Lucky share a notable similarity in the materials used for their switch housings, with both featuring nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is a classic choice in the world of mechanical keyboard switches, and its properties contribute significantly to the auditory experience while typing. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similar acoustic experience when typing, creating a duller and rounder sound that many enthusiasts find appealing.
Despite the identical choice of housing materials, the effects of these materials can still differ based on the design of each switch. In the case of the Lavender HE and Lucky, since both the top and bottom housings are made from the same nylon material, the impact on sound and feel during key presses will likely be consistent across both switches. The overall sound profile will be defined by the acoustic properties of nylon, ensuring that both switches offer a smooth typing experience that emphasizes a warm tonal quality. However, subtle variations could arise depending on factors such as the switch mechanism and any additional design elements employed in each switch.
If there were any differences in the top and bottom housings of the switches, one might expect a noticeable variance in the tactile feedback and acoustics when pressing and releasing the keys. In the case of the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Lucky, the uniformity in nylon usage contributes to a cohesive typing experience. Users will primarily appreciate a consistent sound quality and feel when pressing the keys, reinforcing the notion that, despite any potential differences that could be explored, the nylon material helps narrow the gap between their performance. As a result, keyboard enthusiasts seeking similar auditory experiences may find both switches equally satisfying due to their shared housing characteristics.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them appealing options for users seeking comfortable typing experiences. The Lavender HE has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Lucky switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Lucky switch requires a bit less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Lavender HE, ultimately making it the lighter option overall. Both switches cater to users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, though the Lavender HE provides a slightly more substantial feel due to its higher force thresholds. Overall, while both switches are light, users looking for the ultimate lightness might lean towards the Lucky switch.
Travel distance
Both the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which indicates that they provide an equivalent feel when pressing down on the key. This equal travel distance suggests that users can expect similar feedback from both switches, leading to comparable typing and gaming experiences. Since neither switch has a shorter or longer distance, those who prefer one over the other may need to consider other factors, such as the actuation force or overall switch design, to help inform their choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Lucky linear switches, the Neo Lavender HE is known for its clean and low sound characteristics. This makes it an appealing option for users seeking a quieter typing experience, especially on a mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch produces a softer sound, complemented by its glittery nylon housing. The combination of these materials contributes to a neutral auditory feedback that many users find deeply satisfying. It's essential to note that the overall sound may be influenced by additional factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which can alter the acoustic signature of any switch.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the Neo Lavender HE provides a smooth typing experience that is usually appreciated by enthusiasts who prefer linear switches with minimal resistance. This allows for a fluid keystroke, enhancing the overall typing efficiency. Conversely, the HMX Lucky switch also delivers a smooth feel, yet its design caters to a lightweight experience, giving it a unique character. The softer nylon housing adds to the comfort during extended typing sessions, creating a tactile experience that is both pleasant and engaging.
In conclusion, both the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Lucky linear switches offer distinctive auditory and tactile experiences, appealing to different user preferences. The Lavender HE excels in delivering a low sound profile with a smooth typing feel, while the Lucky switch stands out for its softer sound and lightweight design that allows for a neutral and satisfying typing experience. While they have their unique qualities, both switches are constructed to provide a pleasurable typing experience, ensuring that users can find satisfaction in either choice according to their preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the kind of experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a clean, low sound and appreciate responsiveness, the Neo Lavender HE switch, with its slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams, could be the ideal choice. These switches excel in low-noise environments and offer a unique feel, standing out with their magnetic actuation that enhances your typing experience, particularly if you're using a Wooting keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter touch and a softer, neutral sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of just 43 grams, it provides a deeply satisfying typing experience thanks to its soft nylon housing. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you desire the distinctive characteristics and performance of the Lavender HE or the plush, gentle satisfaction of the Lucky switches.
Mentioned in this article
