Neo Lavender HE vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Neo Lavender HE and KTT Mint offer unique tactile experiences suited to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound profile and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate a quiet typing experience while maintaining precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Mint presents a satisfyingly smooth linear switch, characterized by its long pole stem, which delivers a poppy thockiness that many users find gratifying. With its light and fleeting feel, the Mint is ideal for typists who enjoy a more responsive and energetic typing sensation. While both switches cater to different preferences—one emphasizing sound and precision, the other focusing on smoothness and tactile feedback—there are key aspects to consider. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Mint, several distinct differences emerge, particularly in their choice of top housing materials. The Lavender HE features a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and more sound-absorbent characteristics. This results in a typing experience that is muted and rounded, ideal for users seeking a softer auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Mint employs a polycarbonate top housing known for its rigidity, delivering a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The clear nature of polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity but also makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination effects that can enhance the overall aesthetics of a keyboard.
Both the Neo Lavender HE and KTT Mint share the same material for their bottom housings, which is nylon. This similarity means that both switches will provide a similar deep and fuller sound profile during key presses. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound, ensuring that the typing experience has a consistent quality in terms of feel and auditory feedback. Because of this shared material, users can expect a degree of familiarity when typing on both switches, despite differences in their top housing. The softness of the nylon bottom housing results in a muted impact, complementing the nuanced qualities of the other housing materials.
The interaction of the different materials in each switch housing further guides the overall sound experience. While the Lavender HE offers a harmonious blend of both nylon housings for a cohesive sound profile, the KTT Mint's combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom creates a more dynamic typing experience. The polycarbonate top is likely to produce distinct, higher-pitched sounds upon key release, while the nylon bottom maintains the deeper resonance characteristic of the material. Consequently, this contrast allows users to experience a varied auditory landscape that is shaped by the specific contribution of each housing. Such nuanced differences ultimately guide user preference—catering to those who enjoy the calm depth of the Lavender HE or the vibrant clarity of the KTT Mint.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, a distinct difference emerges in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Lavender HE features a lower actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the Mint switch requires a slightly stronger actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This difference in weight can significantly impact typing experience; the lighter Lavender HE is ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming marathons, while the heavier KTT Mint may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Lavender HE provides a softer touch, whereas the KTT Mint offers a more resistant feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there's a notable difference in their specifications. The Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Mint boasts a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Neo Lavender HE the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers and users seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the KTT Mint, with its longer travel distance, provides a deeper feel that some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference; those who favor a more responsive feel might opt for the Lavender HE, while those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience may lean towards the Mint.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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 offers a clean and low sound profile, which distinguishes it from other magnetic switches commonly found in the market. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch produces a low-pitched sound, characterized by a more bass-heavy tone, complemented by a neutral sound profile. This means the Mint provides a balanced auditory experience that suits a broad range of environments, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. While both switches are relatively quiet compared to tactile or clicky alternatives, the Lavender HE's more minimalistic sound can create a serene typing experience, whereas the Mint's soft poppy thockiness adds a subtle character to each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Lavender HE is praised for its smooth typing experience; however, specific descriptors of its tactile qualities are not provided. In contrast, the KTT Mint is noted for its mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle typing feel and a smooth finish thanks to reduced friction. The Mint's long pole stem contributes to a tactile yet fleeting sensation during typing, which can feel satisfying to many users. While the Lavender HE’s feel remains somewhat undefined, it is likely that both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, appealing to those who prefer linear options.
In summary, both the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Mint linear switch present unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Lavender HE excels in providing a low and clean auditory experience, while the Mint offers a low-pitched, neutral sound with an enjoyable thocky quality. In terms of tactile feedback, the Mint is exceptional with its mildness and polish, though the Lavender HE remains less defined in that area. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience, making them suitable choices depending on personal taste and specific use cases.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Mint linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you value a light actuation force along with a unique and clean sound profile, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice, particularly for gamers or typists who appreciate a quieter and more refined experience. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards also sets it apart for those looking to exploit advanced features like analog input. On the other hand, if you prefer a more satisfying thocky sound and a smooth linear feel, the KTT Mint switch may be more to your liking. Its medium-light actuation, combined with a mild and polished typing experience, makes it suitable for both casual users and those who might spend long hours typing at a desk. Overall, your choice will reflect whether you prioritize an innovative sound and feel experience with the Lavender HE or a balanced, enjoyable typing experience with the Mint switch.
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