Neo Lavender HE vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and Gateron Mars offer distinct experiences suited to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE switch is celebrated for its clean, low sound profile, delivering a subtle auditory experience while maintaining responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer a quieter keypress. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch features a unique design that combines a POK stem with a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, resulting in a smooth and consistent linear feel ideal for those who favor a more fluid typing experience. Each switch has its own merits: the Lavender HE stands out with its compatibility with Wooting keyboards and magnetic technology, while the Mars switch is recognized for its innovative build quality and durability. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Mars, it becomes apparent that there is a fundamental similarity in the top housing. Both switches utilize nylon for their top housings, a material well-regarded for its acoustic properties. This shared nylon construction allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as the material’s softer plastic composition serves to absorb sound more effectively than harder alternatives. Consequently, users can expect a pleasantly muted typing experience from both switches, characterized by a duller and rounder auditory response upon key release. This commonality indicates that, regardless of the differences in other components, both switches will produce a similar typing sound that many users appreciate.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Lavender HE and the Mars switches diverge significantly, with the Lavender HE featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Mars is outfitted with POM (Polyoxymethylene) material. This difference in materials suggests that the overall tactile feedback and bottom-out sound will differ between the two switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Lavender HE inherits the same sound-absorbing qualities as its top housing, contributing to a cohesive sound profile during key presses. Meanwhile, the POM bottom housing of the Mars offers a distinct auditory signature—while still producing a deeper and more muted sound, the POM material can create a uniquely pleasing typing experience. This variance is particularly notable as the bottom housing plays a crucial role in how a switch feels and sounds upon actuation.
When taking into account the interplay of the top and bottom housing materials, the experience of typing on both the Neo Lavender HE and Gateron Mars exhibits contrasts as well as similarities. While the top housings ensure a muted sound when releasing a key, the differing bottom materials influence the tactile feedback experienced during a keystroke. The Lavender HE's nylon bottom housing aligns well with the acoustic profile established by the top housing, resulting in a cohesive sound experience throughout. Meanwhile, the POM bottom housing of the Mars introduces a new layer of sound complexity, highlighting the different qualities each switch possesses. In summary, although both switches may yield a similar auditory experience due to their nylon tops, the specific tactile responses and sound profiles during key actuation will ultimately set them apart, making the choice subjective to user preference.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch to the Gateron Mars linear switch, a notable difference is observed in their actuation forces. The Lavender HE has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to press and thus ideal for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Mars switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which offers a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. Additionally, while the Lavender HE switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unknown as it is not provided. This uncertainty prevents a complete comparison in that aspect; however, it can be inferred that, based on its actuation force, the Lavender HE switch may be lighter overall in feel. Thus, for users who favor lighter switches, the Neo Lavender HE would be the preferable choice, whereas those who enjoy a heavier push feel might lean towards the Gateron Mars, although the precise bottoming out characteristics of the latter are unclear.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the Neo Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Mars measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Mars the shorter switch by a margin of 0.2 mm. Given that 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional travel distance and 3.0 mm is the shallowest, both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular among gamers for their more responsive feel. Those who prefer quick actuation might favor the Mars switch, while those who appreciate a deeper, more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Lavender HE due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a clean, low sound that sets it apart from many traditional mechanical switches. This sound profile can make for a more pleasant typing experience, particularly in quieter environments or when used alongside sound-dampening materials. In contrast, the Gateron Mars linear switch, utilizing a POK stem with a nylon and POM housing, hints at a potentially different acoustic characteristic, yet specific sound descriptions for the Mars switch remain unknown. This means that whether you’re considering the Lavender HE or the Mars, both switches will still result in a different auditory experience depending on the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE provides an experience that more experienced typists often appreciate, though exact descriptions regarding its tactile feedback are not provided. The Gateron Mars linear switch, on the other hand, is likely to be smooth due to its linear design, appealing to those who prefer an uninterrupted keypress without tactile bumps. Given that the subjective feel can greatly vary from person to person, both switches offer distinct sensations that cater to different typing preferences, but specific details about the Lavender HE’s tactile qualities are notably absent.
In conclusion, both the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Mars linear switch present unique sound and feel characteristics that can influence your typing experience. If you're looking for a cleaner sound, the Lavender HE would be more favorable, whereas the Mars might offer smoothness with its linear nature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend heavily on individual preferences and how they integrate with the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your specific typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you prefer a lighter feel with a clean, low sound and enjoy the unique technology of hall effect switches, the Lavender HE is well-suited for you, especially if you're using a Wooting keyboard. Its 50 grams bottom out force offers a responsive typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're drawn to innovative designs and the unique feel that comes from Gateron’s blend of materials, the Mars switch may be the better choice. Although its bottom out force details are not specified, you can expect a smooth linear feel that could enhance your gaming performance. Ultimately, your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback will guide your decision; choose the Lavender HE for a quieter, more responsive experience, while opting for the Mars if you value innovation and smooth linear action.
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