Neo Lavender HE vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two contenders stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences: the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Neptune. The Neo Lavender HE, known for its clean and low sound, offers a distinctive typing experience with its hall effect technology, making it a great choice for users looking for precision and a quieter operation while using Wooting keyboards. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune features an innovative internal structure that promotes a smooth, almost frictionless glide, coupled with a springy resistance that evokes the delightful texture of chewy mochi or tapioca pearls. This ultralight switch provides a muted yet thocky sound signature, appealing to those who appreciate a responsive feel without overwhelming noise. While the Lavender HE excels in quiet clarity, the Neptune boasts an engaging tactile experience. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Neptune distinguish themselves through the choice of materials used in their housing, each contributing unique auditory experiences. The Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, which is well-known in the keyboard community for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics and provides a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Neptune employs a POM top housing, which generates an equally appealing but distinct sound. POM, while also facilitating a deeper sound, offers a unique and more muted quality compared to the Nylon. This variance in sound profile highlights that both switches yield rich auditory feedback, albeit through different material compositions.
When looking at the bottom housing, the differences become more pronounced. The Lavender HE utilizes nylon again, enhancing its capacity to produce a fuller sound experience with a similar deep tone and muted profile. On the other hand, the Neptune opts for polycarbonate in its bottom housing, introducing a sharper and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate leads to a clearer resonance, making a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This contrast emphasizes how the materials alter tactile feedback, as the Nylon of the Lavender HE leans towards a more subdued experience, while the polycarbonate of the Neptune aims for clarity and brightness.
Despite the differences in materials, both switches showcase their strengths through the interplay between the top and bottom housing. As the qualities of each material blend during use, both the Lavender HE and Neptune can create satisfying auditory experiences for users. For those who prefer deeper, warmer sounds, the Lavender HE's nylon setup can deliver an enjoyable performance. Conversely, the TTC Neptune's combination of POM and polycarbonate offers a brighter, more resonant experience. Therefore, while the materials differ, the contextual application of each housing ensures that both switches can achieve appealing auditory characteristics, albeit through distinct auditory journeys.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE Hall Effect switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, both exhibit relatively similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo Lavender HE has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the TTC Neptune slightly edges higher at 41 grams; both switches bottom out at 50 grams. This makes both switches feel light and suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch. The slight difference in actuation forces—only a gram apart—means that users will likely experience very similar typing results from both switches, although the Neptune may offer a marginally stronger push feel. Ultimately, for those who appreciate a lighter actuation, the Lavender HE is the more favorable option due to its slightly lower actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.8 mm, which means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience an identical distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will achieve comparable tactile feedback and performance when utilizing either switch for their keyboard needs. Thus, in terms of travel distance, both switches can be considered equal, providing a consistent experience for users who prioritize this particular aspect of keypress dynamics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the Neo Lavender HE creates a clean and low profile that distinguishes it from other magnetic switches, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a quieter typing experience. This switch emphasizes a muted auditory response, allowing for undistracted work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the TTC Neptune switch offers a low-pitched, thocky sound that delivers a deeper, more resonant auditory experience. It also features a muted and subdued quality, which creates a softer sound reminiscent of bass-heavy switches but still maintains an engaging acoustic signature. While both switches are relatively quiet, the Lavender HE tends to focus on minimalism in sound, whereas the Neptune adds a satisfying thock.
In terms of feel, the Neo Lavender HE is often noted for its innovative technology that could imply a smooth and refined typing experience, though specific details on its tactile feedback are not provided. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers an array of distinctive tactile sensations, including a buttery glide, gummy bottoming effect, and overall frictionless experience. The sensation can be described as effortless and smooth, with a gentle resistance that makes typing feel fluid and enjoyable. The mild and polished characteristics of the Neptune switch contribute to an approachable yet satisfying typing experience, whereas the specific tactile nature of the Lavender HE remains undefined in this context.
In conclusion, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Neptune switch largely comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The Lavender HE offers a clean and low sound profile that may appeal to those prioritizing quiet performance, while the Neptune provides a thocky sound and a richly textured typing experience. Each switch brings its unique charm: the Lavender HE focuses on understated auditory feedback, whereas the Neptune excels in tactile variety and engagement. Ultimately, users seeking similar outcomes in terms of typing experience can consider both options, keeping in mind how each might cater to their specific preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences, sound requirements, and the overall experience you seek. If you value a clean, low sound with a distinct typing feel that stands out, the Lavender HE may be your ideal option, especially if you're using a Wooting keyboard where its unique magnetic properties can shine. On the other hand, should you prefer a smoother, more effortless keypress with a rich, thocky sound signature, the TTC Neptune is likely to be more satisfying. Its gummy and frictionless feel provides that buttery performance reminiscent of mochi or tapioca pearls, which can enhance the tactile experience, especially during prolonged typing sessions. Therefore, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s the unique characteristics of the Lavender HE that set it apart or the delightful, plush experience offered by the Neptune, and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard journey.
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