Neo Lavender HE vs. Outemu Peach (V3)
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Peach (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two notable contenders are the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Peach. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean and low sound profile, providing a smooth and acoustically pleasing experience that resonates well with users seeking a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the Outemu Peach, a linear switch, offers a lightweight and silenced experience, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prefer a feathery touch and a whisper-quiet operation. While the Lavender HE shines in its distinctive magnetic technology and refined auditory feedback, the Peach excels in offering a gentle yet responsive keystroke that appeals to those who enjoy a more understated feel. Each switch presents its own merits, catering to varying typing styles and preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Outemu Peach, it is noteworthy that both switches employ nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality stands out, considering that nylon is renowned for its acoustic properties. As described, this softer plastic tends to absorb sound effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. Since both switches utilize nylon in their construction, users can expect a consistent sound profile characterized by a duller and rounder noise. Thus, regardless of the individual branding or design aspects of the switches, the choice of nylon as a primary material creates a similarity that is likely to result in comparable auditory feedback.
Despite this shared choice of nylon, the impact of housing design on the typing experience should be considered. Each switch has its unique configuration and design nuances, which can affect how the user perceives the switch's feel and sound when typing. While the nylon housings absorb impact and sound uniformly, the interaction between the top and bottom housings can lead to subtle variations in response. For example, if the bottom housing has a slightly different internal structure or thickness, it might influence the bottom-out feel or sound slightly differently even though they both utilize nylon as the material. Thus, while they will elicit similar acoustical responses due to their nylon composition, the overall typing experience will still be shaped by these design details.
Furthermore, the distinct characteristics of each switch may appeal to different user preferences, even within the confines of the identical nylon material. While the Lavender HE and the Peach may share a sound profile and material qualities, factors such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and overall performance may differ. These aspects, while not directly tied to the material itself, can significantly influence how each switch is perceived by typists. Consequently, although users can anticipate a similar auditory output due to the shared nylon components, the overall typing experience can diverge based on the specific design and constraints of each individual switch.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, both switches exhibit the same specifications in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Each has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying them as light switches. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience regarding the effort required to press the keys down, making them suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming without excessive fatigue. Since both switches share identical force metrics, individuals looking for a lighter typing feel will find both options equally appealing, while those seeking a heavier, more substantial touch may want to explore alternatives.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, the Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Peach switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Lavender HE offers a more substantial feel when pressed, which some users may prefer for its hearty depth, especially for typing experiences. In contrast, the Peach switch's shorter travel distance allows for quicker response times, making it more appealing to gamers and those who favor rapid key presses. Consequently, if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Outemu Peach would be the better choice, while the Neo Lavender HE would cater to those who enjoy a more pronounced travel feel. Thus, the Lavender HE is the longer travel option, and the Peach is the shorter one.
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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40.
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 is known for its clean and low sound profile, making it a quieter option compared to many traditional mechanical switches. In contrast, the Outemu Peach linear switch offers a neutral sound that features a moderate actuation force requirement along with a muted characteristic. This means that while the Lavender HE provides a distinct clarity with less noise, the Peach balances a soft typing experience that reduces sound without sacrificing tactile feedback. Both switches can contribute to a quieter typing environment, particularly in shared spaces, but the Lavender HE focuses on a more defined sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Lavender HE's subjective qualities remain unspecified, but it is often appreciated for its smooth operation inherent in hall effect technology. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch is characterized by several qualities that contribute to a comfortable typing experience. It offers a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that makes it approachable for users across various skill levels. The subtle resistance ensures a light and pleasant typing feel that avoids being overly feathery, creating a refined typing experience. Additionally, the Peach's polished nature contributes to a smooth key travel, allowing for minimal friction that enhances the overall typing comfort.
Overall, both switches present unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel that cater to different typing preferences. The Neo Lavender HE offers a clean auditory experience while maintaining a smooth operation, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter ambiance. Conversely, the Outemu Peach provides a neutral sound and a polished, gentle typing feel, appealing to linear switch lovers wanting a lightweight experience. Ultimately, users can achieve satisfying results with either switch depending on their personal preferences and typing needs, ensuring a fulfilling mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you are looking for a switch that provides a clean, low sound with a very light actuation force and works seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, then the Neo Lavender HE is an excellent choice. It offers a high-tech typing experience that is perfect for custom setups or gaming scenarios where every keystroke needs to be precise and silent. On the other hand, if you prefer a more versatile and muted option that is still light but with a gentler, polished feel, the Outemu Peach linear switch might be the way to go. These switches excel in shared workspaces or quieter environments, where a soft, subtle typing experience is essential. Ultimately, if sound isolation and the smoothness of your typing are your priorities, lean towards the Peaches; however, if you desire innovative technology paired with a clean acoustic profile, the Lavenders will serve you better.
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