Neo Lavender HE vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and Outemu Brown each bring unique characteristics to the table. The Neo Lavender HE, celebrated for its clean and low sound profile, utilizes hall effect technology, making it a silent performer with a distinct edge for gamers seeking an unobtrusive experience. This switch is compatible with Wooting keyboards, appealing to those who appreciate the nuances of analog input. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile bump without the associated click, providing feedback that many typists enjoy for its responsiveness during long typing sessions. While the Lavender HE shines in scenarios where noise management is paramount, the Brown switch fosters a balanced typing experience that satisfies both gamers and typists alike. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The primary distinction between the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Brown switches lies in their top housing materials. The Neo Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to its softer material. This softer plastic absorbs sound, resulting in a rounder and less sharp auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature that contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also offers aesthetic advantages, especially for users looking to showcase RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through more effectively. Thus, while both types of switches serve their purpose, the overall sound experience will differ dramatically due to the materials used in their top housings.
On the other hand, both the Neo Lavender HE and Outemu Brown switches feature nylon bottom housings, which ultimately provides a shared characteristic in sound production. This nylon material enhances the deeper, fuller sound profile that is consistent across both switches, as both bottom housings absorb sound similarly. This commonality means that regardless of the top housing differences, users will experience similar auditory qualities when pressing the key down—characteristics that typify the soft resonance of nylon. The fact that both switches share the same bottom housing material ensures that the influence of this portion remains constant, grounding the switches in a unified sound experience.
In terms of performance during usage, the combination of different top and bottom materials creates a unique interaction with each switch. For the Neo Lavender HE, while the bottom’s nylon contributes to the deep, rounded sound upon bottoming out, the nylon top still results in a consistent auditory profile that serves to soften the overall sound. Conversely, the Outemu Brown's polycarbonate top adds a pronounced sharpness to the auditory profile upon release, contrasting with the nylon bottom’s fuller sound during bottoming out. Therefore, while both switches have distinct auditory experiences due to their top housing materials, their shared nylon bottom ensures a level of familiarity in sound, ensuring that users will appreciate the soothing qualities of nylon regardless of the top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. This means that the Lavender HE is generally more accessible for users seeking a gentle touch, while the Brown caters to those who enjoy a firmer response. Overall, the Lavender HE exhibits lighter forces, which can lead to less fatigue over long periods, whereas the Brown offers a medium-heavy feel for users who appreciate a stronger keystroke resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, the Lavender HE offers a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users seeking quicker response times may prefer the Lavender HE, as shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for their immediate feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown, with its slightly longer distance, may provide a more substantial feel that some users appreciate. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences; those who enjoy a more tactile, deeper press might gravitate towards the Outemu Brown, while those looking for speed and responsiveness may opt for the Neo Lavender HE.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50, whereas the Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10.
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 hall effect switch produces a clean, low sound profile that distinguishes it from traditional mechanical switches. This quality contributes to a more refined auditory experience, particularly appealing for users who prefer less distraction while typing or gaming. In notable contrast, the Outemu Brown switch does not have a distinctive sound profile recorded, making it less defined in this area. It’s also important to consider that sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard build, as well as the choice of keycaps, which means both switches may perform differently depending on their assembly.
Regarding the feel, the Neo Lavender HE offers a smooth and linear experience, promoting effortless keystrokes without any tactile bumps or resistance. This can result in a fluid typing experience, often favored by gamers and those who need responsive keys for rapid input. In comparison, the Outemu Brown switch is characterized by a tactile bump, providing a noticeable feedback during actuation. This tactile sensation is beneficial for typists who appreciate the confirmation of a keypress, making it efficiently suited for typing tasks.
In conclusion, while the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch presents a unique combination of a clean sound and a smooth feel, the Outemu Brown switch offers tactile feedback, catering to different preferences among users. If sound quality is paramount for a quiet workspace, the Lavender HE stands out; however, for those who thrive on tactile feedback, the Brown provides a traditional typing experience without the distinct sound signature. Depending on personal preference and typing styles, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit through different sensory means.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter actuation with a clean and low sound profile, the Lavender HE would be the ideal choice, especially for gaming or situations where you require swift key presses without fatigue. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards also makes it an attractive option for those interested in using a more advanced, analog experience. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial tactile feedback along with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Outemu Brown switch may serve you better, particularly for intensive typing sessions where you appreciate the concrete confirmation of each keystroke. Although the Brown switch may not have distinct sound characteristics highlighted, its satisfying tactile bump can enhance your overall typing experience. In summary, consider the feel, sound, and weight you are comfortable with, as these factors will significantly influence your enjoyment of either switch in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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