Neo Lavender HE vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can greatly affect your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Neo Lavender HE switch, a hall effect switch, is renowned for its clean and low sound, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer minimal auditory distractions while gaming or working. It is particularly compatible with Wooting keyboards, which enhances its appeal among enthusiasts looking for a seamless integration. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch embodies subtlety, offering a gentle tactile feedback that strikes a balance between performance and comfort. With its relatively light typing feel and subdued audio feedback, the MX Brown is perfect for users who appreciate a soft yet responsive experience, whether for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. Each switch offers distinct advantages—Lavender HE for its innovative, silent operation and compatibility, and MX Brown for its tactile yet unobtrusive feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Neo Lavender HE and Cherry MX Brown switches exhibit notable similarities, particularly in the choice of nylon, which features in both switches for both the top and bottom housings. This common material choice means that typists can expect a similar auditory experience across both switches, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb vibrations effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the typing experience on either switch is likely to be satisfying for users who appreciate muted acoustics over the louder, sharper sounds found in harder plastic switches.
While both switches share nylon for their housings, it is essential to recognize that the impact of each housing material varies depending on which component (top or bottom) it represents. In the case of both the Lavender HE and MX Brown, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing affects the sound upon releasing a key. Therefore, despite using the same nylon material for both switches, the typing experience may feel slightly different due to individual design elements, like the spring mechanism or switch actuation point, which can also contribute to the tactile feedback.
Ultimately, since both the Neo Lavender HE and Cherry MX Brown employ identical materials for their top and bottom housings, users should anticipate similar results in terms of sound and tactile sensation. The nylon construction inherently enhances durability while providing a consistent and pleasant typing experience. However, users may still distinguish between the two switches based on their specific designs and features beyond just the housing material. By focusing on the overall feel and the frequency nuances during both keystrokes and releases, typists may find the more nuanced differences that distinguish their experiences across these two popular switches.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Lavender HE has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for prolonged writing or gaming sessions due to less physical strain. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches' bottom out forces are comparatively close, with the Lavender HE being lighter overall. Consequently, if you prefer a lighter switch that allows for less effort during extended use, the Neo Lavender HE is the better choice, whereas the Cherry MX Brown is advisable for those who appreciate the tactile feedback provided by a heavier force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we find that the Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Lavender HE the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel which can be appealing to gamers seeking quicker activation. Conversely, the MX Brown, with its longer travel distance, may provide the heftier, more satisfying depth that some users prefer. Ultimately, both switches can yield a distinct typing experience based on personal preference, with the Lavender HE favoring speed and the MX Brown emphasizing a more pronounced keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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 is characterized by a clean, low sound that stands out in the realm of magnetic switches, particularly when used with Wooting keyboards. This provides a more refined auditory experience, making it less distracting in quieter environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its subtlety, offering a gentle audio feedback that some describe as bassy and low-pitched. The sound profile of the MX Brown can be likened to a deeper, richer tone, creating a well-rounded auditory experience during typing. It's essential to keep in mind that the perceived sound of both switches can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Neo Lavender HE's tactile response is less documented; thus, its precise feel compared to the MX Brown is unclear. The Cherry MX Brown switches are recognized for their textured feel, providing a noticeable friction during key presses. This texture can lend itself to a unique typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy some feedback as they type. While the Lavenders may also offer an engaging tactile sensation, specifics about their friction or smoothness have not been disclosed, leaving them somewhat of an unknown in terms of comparison.
In summary, while both the Neo Lavender HE and Cherry MX Brown switches can deliver satisfactory typing experiences, they differ in sound characteristics and tactile feedback qualities. The Lavender HE presents a clean and low auditory profile while the MX Brown offers a softer, bassy tone. In terms of feel, the tactile nature of the MX Brown is well-documented, whereas the Lavenders remain somewhat of a mystery. Overall, users may experience unique benefits and preferences based on their selection and the specific keyboard setup they choose to use with these switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a clean, low sound profile, the Neo Lavender HE is an excellent choice, particularly if you are using a Wooting keyboard. Its unique magnetic technology provides a smooth typing experience, ideal for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing tasks without excessive auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you favor a more subtle typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Cherry MX Brown would suit you better. Its gently tactile bump and bass-rich sound cater well to those who appreciate a more traditional mechanical switch while maintaining a satisfying auditory result. Therefore, think about how you use your keyboard—if you're looking for a whisper-quiet environment with an emphasis on speed, go for the Lavender HE. If you want a balanced tactile experience that resonates with a familiar mechanical feel, the Cherry MX Brown will be your go-to option.
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