Neo Lavender HE vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Magnetic Jade stand out as two exceptional hall effect options, each bringing its unique character and feel to the table. The Neo Lavender HE is celebrated for its clean, low sound profile, providing a subtle yet refined typing experience that many users appreciate, particularly those looking for a quieter setup. It is a popular choice for Wooting keyboards and distinguishes itself from other magnetic switches with its smooth actuation. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade caters to users who crave a more vibrant sound, delivering a bright and clacky auditory feedback that enhances the overall experience of typing. This makes the Magnetic Jade a favored choice for those looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards with improved acoustics and a superior typing sensation. Both switches have strong proponents based on their distinct sound and feel, but they cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Magnetic Jade, one can observe a stark contrast between the materials used for the top housings, while there is a similarity regarding the bottom housings. The Neo Lavender HE utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality arises from nylon's softer nature, as it absorbs more sound and results in a rounded auditory experience. In stark contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing that facilitates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This distinct sound characteristic can be attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, resulting in a crisper and more resonant audio experience, which can be particularly appealing in setups designed for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Magnetic Jade utilize nylon. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes similarly to their auditory feedback, promoting that deeper and fuller sound profile. This cohesion in bottom housing material means that when pressed, both switches will emit more muted sounds, creating a dampened feel that resonates well with users who prefer a softer tactile experience. Despite the differences in their top housings, the use of nylon for both bottoms allows users to expect some level of consistency in response and sound when bottoming out in either switch.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials found in the top housings of the Neo Lavender HE and Gateron Magnetic Jade will yield different auditory profiles, particularly noticeable during key release. While the Lavender HE's nylon top contributes to a more subdued sound, the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top enhances clarity and brightness. Nevertheless, since both switches share nylon in their bottoms, the overall typing experience will have a foundation of depth and fullness, slightly muting the effects of the contrasting top materials. Thus, users can find a unique blend of preferences based on the varying auditory qualities, depending on the specific housing configuration.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE requires a 40-gram actuation force and bottoms out at 50 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade has a slightly lower actuation force of 30 grams, which contributes to a lighter feel during typing, but it has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a firmer bottoming out experience. While the Lavender HE offers a more balanced light touch throughout its travel, the Magnetic Jade provides a blend of lighter actuation and a heavier bottom out, making it better for those who prefer additional resistance when fully engaging the switch. Overall, the Lavender HE switch will feel lighter for most users due to its lower bottom out force, while the Magnetic Jade caters to those seeking a somewhat unique combination of lightness in actuation and heavier feedback upon bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we find that the Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Magnetic Jade measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel, which can be especially beneficial for gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the Lavender HE offers a longer travel distance, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial depth in their keystrokes. While both switches can deliver satisfactory performance, the Lavender HE is ideal for those who favor a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50, whereas the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a clean, low sound that is distinct from many other magnetic switches, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade delivers a bright and clacky sound, which many users might find energizing and engaging. This auditory contrast suggests that the Lavender HE is better suited for those who prefer a more subdued environment, while the Magnetic Jade caters to individuals looking to enhance their typing experience with more pronounced acoustics.
Regarding feel, the Neo Lavender HE is characterized by a smooth and consistent action, providing a reliable response with each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Magnetic Jade offers a bouncier and more tactile feel, which can create a more lively and dynamic typing experience. This difference in tactile feedback may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced sensation when typing, as opposed to the linear and fluid experience that the Lavender HE provides.
In conclusion, both the Neo Lavender HE and Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches offer distinctive qualities suited to different user preferences. The Lavender HE is ideal for those seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Magnetic Jade is more suitable for users who enjoy a loud and tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two options will depend on individual tastes regarding sound and feel, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their unique typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in both feel and sound. If you prefer a lighter touch with a clean, low sound profile, the Neo Lavender HE would be your best option. It’s particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions where fatigue could be a concern, making it ideal for programmers, writers, and anyone who values a smooth and quieter experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more resistance and are drawn to a bright, clacky sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade would be your go-to. This switch will likely satisfy those who appreciate a more tactile feedback and an engaging auditory experience, making it great for gamers or those who enjoy audible cues while typing. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, and your acoustic preferences to make the best choice for your needs.
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