Neo Lavender HE vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, and the Cherry MX Red, a linear switch. The Neo Lavender HE is celebrated for its clean, low sound and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, providing a unique typing experience with its innovative magnetic switch design. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red has earned a reputation as a classic, known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, which delivers a robust and satisfying typing experience enhanced by its 'thocky' and 'textured' classification. While the Lavender HE offers a smooth and quiet operation ideal for those who prefer a minimalistic approach, the MX Red appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and auditory depth. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and 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
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Cherry MX Red switches, it’s noticeable that both employ nylon for both their top and bottom housings. The use of nylon in both switches contributes similarly to the acoustic characteristics experienced during typing. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more efficiently than harder materials, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder auditory feedback, making both switches appealing for users who prioritize sound absorption and a pleasant tactile experience.
Despite the fact that both the Neo Lavender HE and Cherry MX Red switches feature identical housing materials, the distinct qualities of each switch may stem from other factors such as the internal mechanisms or spring characteristics. However, the consistent utilization of nylon for both the top and bottom housings across these switches ensures a shared acoustic performance. When typing on either switch, users can expect to enjoy similar sensory feedback, stemming from the material's inherent properties. This uniformity in housing allows keyboard enthusiasts to choose either switch without sacrificing sound quality or tactile feel.
In addition, the arrangement of materials within the switches plays a critical role in shaping the overall experience. While both switches deliver consistent sound absorption and a full auditory profile due to their nylon housings, any variations in internal design may affect the typing feel and response time. Still, the overarching influence of nylon remains a constant. Whether one chooses the Neo Lavender HE or the Cherry MX Red, the nylon housing promises a sound experience steeped in depth and richness, ensuring that both options will yield similar auditory and tactile results irrespective of their individual distinctions.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE features a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent option for users who prefer a lighter touch, facilitating longer typing sessions or more comfortable gaming experiences. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting a firmer feel upon activation, although its bottom out force is unknown. This may lead to a more substantial typing experience for those who favor a more tactile response. Therefore, while the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter option overall, the Cherry MX Red offers a heavier actuation force, appealing to users looking for more resistance in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends largely on individual preferences regarding force feedback and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there is a clear difference: the Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the MX Red measures at 4 mm. This indicates that the Lavender HE is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can facilitate faster key presses. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red's longer travel distance might be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial, tactile experience while typing, as it provides a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 and low sound profile, distinctly setting it apart from traditional mechanical switches. This characteristic makes it ideal for quieter environments and offers a subtle typing experience without drawing too much attention. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch exhibits a thocky sound that is deeper and richer, providing a more robust auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound is reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" or "knock," making it appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory cue while typing. While both switches can complement different typing preferences, users looking for a quieter experience might favor the Lavender HE, whereas those who appreciate richer sound performance may lean toward the MX Red.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE switch offers a smooth and perhaps slightly more uniform keystroke experience, although specifics about its tactile feedback are less well-defined. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is known for its textured feel, which some users may describe as having a noticeable friction, contributing to an engaged and tactile typing experience. The textured sensation can be appealing to users who enjoy a bit of feedback from their switches, giving the act of typing a certain depth that can make it feel more interactive. Ultimately, this contrast in tactile response highlights different user preferences: where the Lavender HE may offer a smoother ride, the MX Red provides a more textured, engaging interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, the Neo Lavender HE and Cherry MX Red switches each cater to different user preferences: the former excels in offering a clean, low sound with a smooth keystroke experience, while the latter presents a deeper, thocky auditory feedback with a textured feel. Choosing between these switches would depend on individual priorities, such as sound profile and tactile preference, thus allowing users to select a switch that best aligns with their typing style and environment. Whether one seeks a quieter typing experience or a richer auditory and tactile sensation, both switches can effectively deliver satisfying results based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a lighter feel with a clean, low sound and are looking for a unique switch that pairs well with Wooting keyboards, then the Lavender HE might be your best bet. It provides a pleasant typing experience without the distraction of noise, making it suitable for both gaming and extended typing sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly heftier switch that offers a deeper, thocky sound profile, the Cherry MX Red will likely serve you well. This switch is excellent for those who enjoy a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth; the textured feel can add a layer of enjoyment for users who appreciate that tactile difference. Therefore, your choice should align with whether you prioritize sound profile and switch weight, or if you favor a more traditional typing experience with richer acoustics. In the end, consider trying both types if possible, as personal experience is the best guide to finding the perfect switch for your needs.
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