Neo Lavender HE vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference, play style, and desired tactile feedback. The Neo Lavender HE switch offers a uniquely quiet and smooth typing experience, utilizing a hall effect mechanism that provides a clean auditory profile—perfect for those who prefer a more subdued sound environment, especially when gaming or working in shared spaces. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switch delivers a rich, resonant auditory experience with its deep sound profile, complemented by pronounced tactile feedback thanks to its all-POM construction and long pole stem design. This makes the Olives an appealing option for users who enjoy a more robust and dynamic typing experience marked by a satisfying tactile bump and audible click. While both switches serve distinct preferences—lavender for silent efficiency and olive for bold, engaging interaction—each stands out in its own right. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Bsun Olive switches, the most prominent difference lies in the choice of plastics used for their top and bottom housings. The Lavender HE utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its unique sonic qualities. As a softer plastic, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and delivering a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Olive employs POM for both its top and bottom housings. While POM is also a high-quality plastic, it offers a distinct sound character that is described as unique and moderately muted. The differences in material between the two switches lead to varied auditory experiences, underscoring the fundamental impact that housing material has on sound profiles.
Despite this stark contrast, there are similarities in the overall results these two switches can offer. Both the nylon and POM materials promote deeper sound profiles, suggesting they will provide satisfying auditory feedback during use. Although the characteristics of the sounds differ—nylon providing a fuller and rounder sound while POM elicits a more muted response—the inherent design of each switch allows for a pleasant typing experience overall. This means that even though users may notice differing sound qualities, both switches produce an enjoyable auditory response owing to their thoughtful use of materials designed to evoke deeper sound profiles.
Moreover, the differences in the effects of the top and bottom housing materials continue to nuance the user experience. While the Lavender HE’s nylon top housing will enhance the sound profile when a key is released, the Olive’s POM top will simultaneously create a unique resonance. Conversely, the bottom housings play a critical role in the bottom-out feel and sound, with the softer nylon in the Lavender HE potentially contributing to a squishier experience versus the more structured feel of the POM bottom in the Olive. Ultimately, each type of housing brings its own qualities to the table, offering users either the embrace of nylon’s warmth or the clarity of POM, which can cater to diverse preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Olive switch has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial feel that may appeal to users seeking a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the Lavender HE is the lighter option between the two, while the Olive switch is considered medium-heavy. These differences in force may lead to varied user experiences, with the lighter Lavender HE facilitating quicker and less strenuous keystrokes, while the heavier Olive switch offers a more tactile feedback that some users might find gratifying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Olive measures 3.4 mm. This makes the Bsun Olive the shorter option, ideal for those seeking faster response times, especially favored by gamers. Conversely, the Neo Lavender HE, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced sensation when pressed, catering to users who prefer a sturdier feel with greater depth. Therefore, if you value a quicker response, the Olive would be the better choice, while the Lavender caters to those who appreciate a deeper typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is noted for its clean, low sound profile, setting it apart from traditional mechanical switches. This creates an unobtrusive auditory environment, which is particularly appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch produces a resonant and deep sound, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. While the Lavender HE provides a subtlety that makes it ideal for quiet settings, the Olive's deeper tones contribute to a more enriched typing experience. It's important to remember that the overall sound can vary based on the keyboard board and keycap choices, which can amplify or dampen these qualities.
When it comes to feel, the Lavender HE is characterized by its smooth actuation, resulting in a fluid typing experience that is less about tactile feedback and more about the sensation of key presses. This can make it appealing for users seeking a refined touch without interruptions. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive excels in tactile feedback, categorized by its medium weight, which delivers an invigorating and snappy response. The Olive's tactile bump has a distinct sharpness, making it feel alive and responsive with each keystroke, providing a feedback intensity that helps users feel each actuation clearly. This pronounced tactility contrasts with the smoother feel of the Lavender HE, catering to users who enjoy a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard.
In conclusion, each switch offers a unique set of auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE is ideal for those who appreciate a clean sound and a smoother typing experience, while the Bsun Olive switch shines with its deep auditory feedback and pronounced tactile sensations. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound and feel—if you prefer a subtle profile with smooth actuation or vibrant feedback with pronounced acoustics, you are sure to find an enjoyable typing experience with either switch. Remember to consider your keyboard setup, as it can significantly influence the final results.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE and the Bsun Olive tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the typing experience you're seeking. If you favor a lighter actuation with a more subdued sound profile, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for long typing sessions where speed and comfort are paramount. Additionally, the clean, low sound of the Lavender HE can enhance a more minimalistic workspace or appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly firmer key feel and pronounced tactile feedback, the Bsun Olive with its 65-gram actuation provides a medium-heavy resistance that delivers an invigorating and snappy experience. The Olive's deep, resonant sound combined with its sharp tactile bump offers a satisfying auditory and tactile pleasure, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, quieter switch for speed or a more tactile, resonant one for a fulfilling typing sensation.
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