Neo Lavender HE vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock Lupine offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean and low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. Compatible with Wooting keyboards, its magnetic technology provides a unique feel that sets it apart from traditional switches. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch delivers a more dynamic typing experience thanks to its two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution during keypresses and a noticeable upward bounce on release. The Lupine is characterized by its classic clacky sound, ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during their typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock Lupine hinges on whether you prioritize a quieter, smoother tactile experience or a more spirited, sound-rich engagement. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock Lupine, it's essential to recognize the differences in their top housing. The Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softer material not only contributes to a rounder acoustic experience but also enhances the tactile feel of the switch. In contrast, the Durock Lupine is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and results in a sharper, crisper sound profile. Consequently, the differing materials offer distinct auditory experiences—while the Lavender HE produces a more subdued sound, the Lupine captures higher frequencies with greater clarity. This distinction is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts seeking specific sound characteristics from their switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing for both switches is made of nylon, which ensures that they share similar characteristics in terms of sound dampening and tactile feedback. Since nylon is employed as the bottom housing material in both the Lavender HE and the Lupine, they will provide a consistent and deep sound experience when bottoming out. This shared feature ensures that any keystrokes will produce the same rich auditory feedback, regardless of the differences in their top housing. Both switches will benefit from the nylon’s inherent qualities, such as its ability to absorb sound and reduce sharpness upon bottoming out, thus delivering a rounded sound profile.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings in these switches exemplifies how various materials can influence the overall typing experience. With the Lavender HE, the nylon top housing contributes to a more profound and softer auditory profile, while the polycarbonate top of the Lupine provides a crisp and articulate sound. However, both switches will ultimately deliver a consistent tactile experience due to their common nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the depth and richness of sound. Keyboard users can therefore expect a harmonious blend of characteristics, balancing the unique qualities brought forth by different top housings while benefiting from the familiar sound attributes present in both models’ nylon bottom housings.
Weight
The comparison between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch reveals notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE boasts a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Lupine's actuation force is unspecified, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This suggests that while some users might appreciate the lighter feel of the Lavender HE, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, the Lupine may cater to those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience, albeit with potentially more fatigue over longer use due to its unknown actuation force and higher bottom out resistance. Thus, for those who prioritize weight and ease of keystroke activation, the Neo Lavender HE is clearly the lighter option, while the Durock Lupine stands as the heavier alternative, making them suitable for different typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there is a slight difference to consider. The Neo Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Lupine measures at 3.7 mm. This makes the Lupine the shorter of the two at 3.7 mm, which may offer a more responsive feel that could appeal to gamers looking for quicker key presses. Conversely, the slightly longer travel distance of the Lavender HE at 3.8 mm may provide a more substantial and deeper typing experience, which some users might prefer for a more traditional feel. Therefore, while both switches offer relatively short travel distances that cater to modern preferences, the Lavender HE offers a marginally deeper experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 profiles of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Lavender HE is recognized for its clean, low sound, offering a more subdued auditory experience that can be appealing in quiet settings or for users who prefer a less intrusive typing sound. In contrast, the Durock Lupine switches produce a classic clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharper and potentially more resonant auditory feedback. This clackiness can add a satisfying acoustic element for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing. The choice between them will greatly depend on personal preference regarding how you want your keyboard to sound during use.
In terms of feel, the Neo Lavender HE's characteristics aren't detailed, so we cannot directly compare its tactile sensations to those of the Durock Lupine. However, the Lupine switches stand out with their two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution during keypresses. The upward movement feels notably powerful during rebounds, which may appeal to users looking for a dynamic typing experience. The Durock Lupine switches are described as mild and polished, suggesting a smooth, refined finish that ensures a gentle yet enjoyable typing experience. This combination provides an approachable feel that many users, from beginners to more seasoned enthusiasts, may find appealing.
In summary, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch offers a unique low sound profile while the Durock Lupine enhances the auditory experience with a classic clacky sound. On the feel front, while the Lavender HE lacks specific descriptors, the Lupine's design and polishing contribute to a smooth and rewarding typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches would hinge on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback; if acoustics is your primary concern, the Lavender HE may be the way to go, while those seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback may favor the Durock Lupine.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and the force you desire when actuating keys. If you appreciate a lighter touch combined with a clean, low sound profile, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice, especially if you plan to use it with Wooting keyboards and prefer a smooth, refined typing experience. Its subtle actuation force of 50 grams makes it ideal for long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more notable resistance and enjoy a classic clacky sound while typing, the Lupine switch is more suited for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams provides a satisfying weight that is well-distributed throughout the key press, making it perfect for both typing and gaming. Additionally, the Lupine’s polished feel and mild sound profile offer a balanced option for a variety of environments, whether at work or at home. So, consider what attributes matter most to you—lightness and low sound for the Lavender HE, or a more substantial feel and classic clack for the Lupine—before making your decision.
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