Neo Lavender HE vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various designs that cater to different tactile and auditory preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean and low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience that pairs seamlessly with Wooting keyboards. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis boasts a tactile design characterized by its beautiful translucent appearance and a unique combination of a light actuation force of 37g, allowing for effortless keystrokes that minimize finger fatigue. Its 50g tactile force delivers a satisfying bump that many typists find pleasurable, often described as 'bassy' or 'thocky.' While the Lavender HE prioritizes a smoother and quieter feedback, the Phalaenopsis engages the user with pronounced tactile sensations. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on your typing needs—whether you prefer the subtlety of a hall effect switch or the gratifying feedback of a tactile design. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Lavender HE features nylon as its housing material for both the top and bottom, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, KTT Phalaenopsis employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This stiffer material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thus creating a more resonant typing experience. When comparing these two switch types, it becomes clear that the choice of housing materials plays a critical role in defining the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While the Lavender HE's nylon housing offers a more subdued sound due to its softer material, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate enables a brighter and more vibrant sound to emerge. Each material has its own unique visual appeal as well; nylon tends to have a more opaque finish, while polycarbonate is often translucent, making it especially suitable for RGB lighting applications. The aesthetic difference in these materials can enhance the overall user experience for those who enjoy visual customization in their setups. Despite this contrast, both switches serve their purpose effectively, and the choice ultimately hinges on a user's personal preference regarding sound and aesthetics.
Moreover, it is important to consider that even with differing materials, both the Neo Lavender HE and KTT Phalaenopsis can produce desired results depending on typing style. If a user appreciates a more muted and deeper sound profile, the Lavender HE's nylon housings may be preferable. Conversely, those who prefer a more crisp and resonant typing experience would find the Phalaenopsis to be more suitable. Although their materials differ, the switch experience in terms of feel and sound can still be optimal—each having its strengths tailored to specific preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual priorities concerning both auditory feedback and visual presentation.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both exhibit lightweight characteristics, making them appealing options for users who prioritize prolonged typing comfort or extended gaming sessions. The Lavender HE features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams, but shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that although both switches have the same bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis requires less force to actuate, making it the lighter choice overall. For users who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming, the differences in actuation force may lead to a more responsive feel with the KTT Phalaenopsis, while those who appreciate a slightly firmer feedback might lean towards the Neo Lavender HE.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch features a slightly greater travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lavender HE provides a shorter travel distance compared to the Phalaenopsis, making it potentially more responsive for fast-paced activities, such as gaming. In contrast, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Phalaenopsis can offer a more substantial tactile feedback, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper feel when pressing keys. While both switches provide a distinct typing experience, the choice between them depends on whether one values quicker response times or a more pronounced depth in keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 per 10 switches.
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 is best known for producing a clean, low sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. This contrasts with the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, which is characterized by a bassy and thocky sound profile. The Phalaenopsis produces a deeper and richer tone during key presses, reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" or a soft "knock." The auditory experience of the Phalaenopsis is likely to be more pronounced and impactful, providing a more immersive feel with each keystroke. However, it's important to remember that the sound of any switch can vary depending on the keyboard's design and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE's tactile characteristics remain unspecified, but the KTT Phalaenopsis is notable for its 50g tactile force that produces a discernible tactile bump as you type. This tactile feedback is structured as a stepped sensation, offering a mild yet satisfying experience that features pre-travel and post-travel stages, which can help in improving typing accuracy and reducing finger fatigue. Though we lack detailed insights into the Lavender HE's tactile experience, the Phalaenopsis switch is clearly designed to enhance the typing experience with its specific tactile profile.
In conclusion, while the Neo Lavender HE offers a clean and low sound ideal for those who prefer quieter typing, the KTT Phalaenopsis boasts a bassy and thocky sound, enhancing the auditory pleasure of each keystroke. The Phalaenopsis also includes a tactile bump that adds to the typing experience, whereas the feel of the Lavender HE switch remains unknown. Ultimately, users will gravitate toward either switch based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback, making both options appealing yet distinctly different in their user experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, your decision should largely hinge on your typing style and sound preferences. If you prioritize a clean keystroke with minimal noise and are looking for something compatible with Wooting keyboards, the Neo Lavender HE is the perfect choice. Its lightweight actuation provides a smooth experience, making it an excellent option for both gaming and typing without causing fatigue during extended sessions. On the other hand, if you relish the tactile feedback that comes with a deeper and more satisfying sound profile, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer a delightful typing experience with their bassy and thocky sound. The stepped tactile feel provides just the right amount of resistance to keep your fingers engaged without overwhelming pressure. Ultimately, if you tend to type for prolonged periods or require a more dynamic tactile experience, the Phalaenopsis would serve you well. By considering these factors, you can choose the switch that best aligns with your personal preferences and intended use.
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