Neo Lavender HE vs. Outemu Blue Jade

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can drastically affect your typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Blue Jade. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is known for its clean and low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. It is designed to work seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, further enhancing its appeal for gamers and casual typists alike. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch that delivers an audible and tactile feedback, ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience reminiscent of vintage typewriters. This switch can be a delight for typists who appreciate the distinct sound and feel of each keystroke, adding to the overall satisfaction of typing. With these unique characteristics, both switches offer compelling reasons to choose them based on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Neo Lavender HE Hall Effect

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

$4.50 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Blue Jade switches are crafted with identical housing materials, as both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice contributes to a rich and fulfilling sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a classic switch housing material, facilitates a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. The inherent properties of nylon – softer compared to harder plastics – allow it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a typing experience characterized by muted, rounded acoustics. As a consequence of this uniform material design, users can expect similar auditory results when utilizing either switch, reinforcing the notion that the choice of housing substantially influences performance.

Despite the identical use of nylon in both switch models, the distinction lies in the overall impact each switch offers during use. When typing on the Neo Lavender HE, the qualities emanating from the bottom housing largely shape the bottom-out sound and feel, due to the construction dynamics of the switch. In contrast, the top housing plays a pivotal role in defining the sound profile perceived during the key release. With both switches featuring nylon in both top and bottom housings, their sound experiences remain closely aligned; however, individual users may perceive subtle differences in tactile feedback influenced by the design or characteristics of their respective springs and stems.

In summary, the Neo Lavender HE and Outemu Blue Jade both present a consistent experience rooted in the use of nylon for their housings. This ensures that users receive a comparable auditory feedback characterized by its fullness and roundness. While their constructions allow for variations in feedback depending on the direction of key movement, the commonality in material means that both switches ultimately deliver a cohesive sonic profile. This shared narrative in housing material reflects the sleek design and methodical intention behind both switches, resulting in satisfying and immersive typing experiences on both fronts.

Weight

When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces become evident. The Neo Lavender HE boasts an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which caters to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The difference in actuation forces indicates that the Lavender HE switch requires less effort to activate, while the Blue Jade provides a firmer resistance. Consequently, users seeking a lightweight option for comfort should gravitate toward the Neo Lavender HE, whereas those who favor a weightier, more tactile feedback might opt for the Outemu Blue Jade.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, we find a notable distinction. The Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Blue Jade measures slightly longer at 4 mm. This means that if you're looking for quicker, more responsive keystrokes, the Lavender HE might be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the Blue Jade's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference: opt for the Neo Lavender HE for speed, or choose the Outemu Blue Jade for a richer feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is known for producing a clean, low sound, making it a quieter option compared to many traditional mechanical switches. This characteristic can lead to a more subdued typing experience that is less likely to disturb others in a shared environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have a specific sound profile detailed, but given its classification as a clicky switch, we can infer that it would typically produce a more pronounced and audible click sound upon actuation that many typing enthusiasts find satisfying. It’s important to remember that the overall sound experience can also vary based on the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps.

Regarding feel, the Neo Lavender HE provides a smooth typing experience, aligning with the hall effect technology that typically offers a frictionless action. This can create a seamless experience when typing or gaming, giving users a feeling of responsiveness without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade switch is expected to have a tactile bump, which is characteristic of clicky switches. This tactile feedback can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a noticeable response, making it easier to register key presses.

In summary, if you prefer a quieter, smoother experience, the Neo Lavender HE would likely suit your needs well, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch would be more appealing for those who enjoy audible feedback and a responsive tactile bump. Both switches can cater to different preferences, so the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound dampening and smoothness or tactile and auditory feedback in your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, your choice should ultimately align with your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter, effortless keystroke with a clean, low sound, the Neo Lavenders are the way to go. They're particularly well-suited for gamers or typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness, especially those who appreciate the unique feel of magnetic switches and plan to use Wooting keyboards. Conversely, if you enjoy a more tactile experience with a firmer bottom out force and are a fan of clicky switches, the Outemu Blue Jade might be your ideal choice. These switches provide a robust typing experience and a distinct auditory feedback that many find satisfying, especially in environments where the click may be welcomed. Thus, the decision comes down to whether you value a lighter, quieter experience with a smooth feel or a heavier, more tactile clicky sensation.

Mentioned in this article

Neo Lavender HE Hall Effect

$4.50 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Blue Jade Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more