Neo Lavender HE vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Cold Plum can significantly impact your typing experience. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is renowned for its clean and low sound profile, making it an ideal option for those who desire a quieter typing environment and a smooth, responsive feel. This switch also works seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, appealing to tech-savvy enthusiasts. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are celebrated for their thocky sound and fully nylon construction. These linear switches offer a satisfying keystroke that provides a distinct and engaging typing experience, perfect for users looking for tactile feedback. While the Lavender HE focuses on a softer noise level and magnetic technology, the Cold Plum captivates with its rich acoustic feel and robust design. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Neo Lavender HE and Outemu Cold Plum both feature nylon as their primary housing material for both the top and bottom sections of the switches. This choice of material is significant, as nylon is known for its favorable acoustic properties, specifically its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is both duller and rounder. This similarity in housing materials will enable users of both switches to experience comparable acoustic qualities during their typing experience, regardless of the specific model.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housings, it is essential to consider how variations in other design elements might affect the overall feel and sound. With both the Lavender HE and Cold Plum sharing the same material composition, the characteristics that contribute to sound dampening and tactile feedback will be mutually beneficial. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will predominantly dictate the sound upon key release. Therefore, the similar nylon materials will be a crucial determinant in how these two switches deliver an overall typing experience that leans towards softness and sound absorption.
While the similarities in housing materials create a baseline for a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, it is the nuances derived from other criteria—such as switch design and manufacturing tolerances—that can lead to distinct experiences between the two models. Users might find that minute differences in the internal mechanics of each switch, while both utilizing nylon, can alter the feel of the press and the nuances of the sound profile slightly. In this context, although both models are built on the same foundational housing materials, their resulting performances could diverge due to these more subtle engineering decisions, emphasizing the uniqueness of each switch despite their fundamental similarities.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly affect the typing experience. The Lavender HE features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum demands a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and has a bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. As such, the Lavender HE is preferable for users seeking a lighter switch, while the Cold Plum will appeal to individuals who favor a firmer keystroke. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces indicate that while the Lavender HE provides a more effortless and less fatiguing experience, the Cold Plum offers a robust pushback for those desiring more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we find that the Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cold Plum measures at 3.3 mm. This means that the Outemu Cold Plum switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Neo Lavender HE. For gamers who prioritize quicker response times, the Cold Plum may be the better choice due to its lower travel distance, allowing for faster key actuations. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and depth in their keystrokes might opt for the Lavender HE, as its longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel when pressing down. Thus, depending on your preferences for responsiveness versus depth, you can choose between these two distinct switch options based on their differing travel characteristics.
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 Cold Plum 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
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch offers a clean and low sound profile, which ensures that typing remains quiet and unobtrusive, making it ideal for environments where sound might be a concern. This characteristic sets it apart from many other magnetic switches, as it operates with a sense of clarity. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is well-regarded for its thocky sound profile, which provides a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. The fully nylon construction enhances the acoustic experience, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper, richer sound when typing. Overall, users can expect a very different auditory experience from these two switches, with the Lavender HE being more subdued and the Cold Plum delivering a more substantial auditory presence.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE has a reputation for smooth keystrokes that maintain a consistent and gentle engagement, which is greatly appreciated by typists seeking a seamless typing experience. The low-pressure activation allows for effortless typing, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a noticeably satisfying experience with its smooth keystroke and responsive feedback, creating a more engaging tactile sensation. This contrast leads to two distinct typing experiences where the Lavender HE leans towards a more fluid experience while the Cold Plum enhances every keystroke with its tactile richness.
In summary, the Neo Lavender HE and Outemu Cold Plum switches provide different auditory and tactile experiences that cater to diverse preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Lavender HE stands out with a clean and low sound profile, the Cold Plum draws attention with its thocky sound and satisfying feedback. On the feel front, the Lavender HE offers a smooth and gentle keystroke, whereas the Cold Plum combines a satisfying sensation with smooth engagement. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual’s prioritization of sound and feel in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the specific typing experience you desire. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a clean, low sound, the Neo Lavender HE is ideal, especially if you're using a Wooting keyboard or appreciate advanced magnetic switch technology. The relatively light bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for quick typing and minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, if you enjoy a more tactile feel and a satisfying thocky sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum with its medium-heavy 70 grams bottom-out force may be the better choice. Its fully nylon construction enhances durability while providing a smooth keystroke that many enthusiasts find desirable. Therefore, if you seek a unique and enjoyable typing experience that emphasizes sound and a solid feel beneath your fingers, the Cold Plum is worth considering. Ultimately, your selection should hinge on whether you value a lighter, quieter switch or a more pronounced, engaging auditory experience while typing.
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