Neo Lavender HE vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience while still enjoying the tactile feedback of a mechanical switch. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards further highlights its innovative design and technology. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that brings a more traditional typing experience, complete with audible feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying. While the Dustproof Green lacks specific standout features in its description, its durability may appeal to users looking for a robust switch. Each switch serves different needs: the Lavender HE lacks the intrusive noise often associated with clicky switches, while the Dustproof Green provides a nostalgic tactile response. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 housing materials used in the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches result in distinctly different sound profiles, reinforcing the overall typing experience. The Lavender HE employs a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's relatively soft nature. This design allows for greater sound absorption, creating a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer an auditory experience that accentuates keystrokes, especially with RGB lighting owing to its translucency.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is nylon for both the Lavender HE and Dustproof Green. This similarity allows both switches to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile when the key is bottomed out. The nylon material's sound-absorbing qualities play a crucial role in determining the overall feel of each keystroke, providing a consistency in tactile response and sound depth regardless of the difference in their top housings. Thus, despite the contrasting top housing materials impacting their respective sound outputs, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures the deeper tones remain a central feature in both switches during use.
When considering the overall sound quality and typing experience, one can expect that the different sound profiles of the top housings will influence the keypress dynamics. The Lavender HE’s nylon top will mellow the sound as you release the key, while the Dustproof Green’s polycarbonate top will provide a crisper sound on the release. Consequently, while the bottom housings establish a common thread in terms of sound depth, the unique characteristics of the top housings lead to varying auditory experiences that cater to different user preferences. Typists may find it beneficial to select a switch based on whether they prioritize a fuller sound or a sharper, more resonant typing experience, reflecting the distinctive qualities of each housing material.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch present a notable contrast in their 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 an excellent option for users who value a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or intense gaming. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel and feedback while typing. As such, if a user chooses the Lavender HE for its lighter characteristics, they will experience a less demanding keystroke, potentially reducing fatigue during extended use, while the heavier Dustproof Green may satisfy those who enjoy a firmer response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and pressure required during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dustproof Green has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lavender HE is the shorter option, making it potentially more suitable for those who favor quicker, more responsive key presses, a characteristic often sought after by gamers. In contrast, the Dustproof Green's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their key presses, providing a fuller tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for response time versus key travel depth.
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 Dustproof Green 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 is characterized by a clean, low sound, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. This is particularly appealing in shared workspaces where noise can be a concern. The muted acoustics of the Lavender HE set it apart from many traditional mechanical switches. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have notable sound characteristics detailed, which indicates it may produce a sound profile that is either relatively common or lacks distinctiveness. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound of a switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard build and the choice of keycaps, so both switches could potentially sound different depending on the setup.
Regarding feel, the Neo Lavender HE provides a unique sensing experience aligned with hall effect technology, which can result in a smooth and responsive keystroke that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green, described as a "clicky" switch, typically offers tactile feedback and an audible click at the actuation point, which many typists find satisfying. The presence of a physical click can enhance the typing experience by providing auditory and tactile confirmation of key presses, though it may not be as smooth as the Lavender HE's design.
In conclusion, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch stands out for its clean sound profile and smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those valuing a quieter and responsive typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Green offers a clicky sound and tactile feedback, appealing to users who enjoy pronounced auditory and physical cues as they type. Ultimately, your personal preference will greatly influence which switch you choose; both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, depending on your specific needs and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch ultimately depends on your preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you enjoy a lighter touch with a smooth keystroke and a clean, low sound profile, the Neo Lavender HE may be the better option for you, particularly if you're using a Wooting keyboard. This switch allows for a responsive input with minimal resistance, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming and typing where you want to minimize finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust and tactile experience, the Outemu Dustproof Green is your go-to, especially if you enjoy the unmistakable feedback of a heavy clicky switch. Its substantial bottom-out force and clicky nature provide a rewarding sound and tactile feel that many typists find satisfying, though be prepared for a forceful key press. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you favor lighter, smooth presses or heavier, clicky feedback.
Mentioned in this article
