Neo Lavender HE vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Cream Yellow present two distinct options that cater to varying user preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is widely praised for its clean, low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a quieter typing experience without sacrificing performance. This switch is particularly well-suited for gamers and typists alike, especially when used with Wooting keyboards, as it delivers impressive responsiveness and durability that magnetic switches are known for. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that appeals to users who appreciate a noticeable bump during keypresses, providing satisfying feedback that enhances typing accuracy and comfort. While the Neo Lavender HE stands out with its unique technology and quieter operation, the Cream Yellow offers a classic tactile experience that many find enjoyable for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches are predominantly made of nylon, a classic choice in keyboard switch design. This material is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer composition. Both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, ensuring that users experience a similar acoustic essence during typing. The softness of nylon effectively dampens noise, producing a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience by minimizing harshness. As such, when comparing these two switches, the key similarity lies in their use of nylon, resulting in comparable auditory feedback regardless of the specific branding.
In both the Lavender HE and the Cream Yellow switches, the nylon bottom housing is particularly noteworthy. It plays a critical role in the sound and feel when the switch bottoms out, making it the primary contributor to the overall typing experience. The inherent properties of nylon, which are consistent in both models, help absorb sound vibrations and provide a cohesive acoustic environment during use. Therefore, even though the switches may vary in design or branding, the shared nylon construction ensures that they will both produce a rich sound profile and a satisfying tactile feel when pressed down.
However, it's essential to consider how the characteristics of each housing might manifest differently based on individual design nuances within the switches. Although the top and bottom housings use the same material, variations in the switch's internal mechanics or the shape of the housings can affect the overall typing experience. While the nylon components maintain a consistent sound quality, the tactile feedback and response time could vary between the two, depending on their specific engineering. Thus, while the fundamental acoustic properties are similar due to the nylon used in both switches, the user experience may still differ in tangible ways, providing unique benefits tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, we see a clear distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE boasts an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that's easier on the fingers during extended use. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. This heavier feel may provide enthusiasts with a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push. As a result, typists and gamers seeking a lighter switch for longer sessions might gravitate towards the Lavender HE, while those favoring a more resistant keystroke may opt for the Cream Yellow. Thus, if you're inclined towards a lighter switch for comfort, the Neo Lavender HE would be the better choice.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference in travel distance means that users of the Lavender HE will experience a more pronounced keystroke depth, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, making it a more responsive option that could be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, if you value a deeper typing experience, the Lavender HE is the preferable choice, whereas those seeking increased responsiveness might lean towards the Cream Yellow.
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 Cream Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch offers a clean and low auditory experience, which makes it quite pleasant for users who prefer a quieter typing environment. This characteristic is enhanced when paired with the right keyboard and keycap combinations, which can further optimize the acoustic profile. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have a specific sound profile highlighted, leaving an unclear perception of its auditory characteristics. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound of any switch is influenced by the keyboard it is used with and the chosen keycaps, meaning both switches could potentially produce a pleasing sound based on these other factors.
Moving on to feel, the Neo Lavender HE provides a unique tactile experience that sets it apart from more conventional options. Although specific tactile qualities may vary, its hall effect design typically lends itself to a smooth and engaging typing sensation. Conversely, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch is known for being tactile, which offers a noticeable bump during key press, providing clear feedback that many typists appreciate. This tactile sensation is crucial for users who prefer a more traditional keyboard feel, and while the characteristics may differ, both switches provide enjoyable tactile responses for different preferences.
In summary, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is ideal for those seeking a low and clean sound paired with a smooth feel, particularly suited for low-noise environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch caters to users who appreciate pronounced tactile feedback, potentially trading off some sound clarity. While each switch has its attributes, personal preferences regarding sound and feel will largely determine which switch is the right fit for an individual user. Ultimately, considering these qualities will help newcomers make an informed decision based on their specific typing needs and environmental context.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, your choice largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a lighter actuation force accompanied by a clean, low sound profile, the Neo Lavender HE is an excellent option, particularly if you use a Wooting keyboard or desire a switch that offers smooth keystrokes with minimal noise. This switch is especially advantageous for fast-paced gaming or typing, where responsiveness is key. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier tactile experience with a forceful bottom out at 60 grams, the Outemu Cream Yellow might be the better choice for you. While it lacks distinctive features associated with other switches, its medium force can provide a satisfying feedback sensation during typing, which some users find more comfortable for prolonged use. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches boils down to whether you value a lighter, quieter switch or a more pronounced tactile feel with a bit more resistance.
Mentioned in this article
