Neo Lavender HE vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Neo Lavender HE and Durock Piano present two strikingly different options that cater to varied preferences and typing experiences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it an enticing choice for gamers and typists who appreciate precision and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out in the linear switch category with its proprietary material blend, offering a smooth, gliding push feel accompanied by a deep, creamy sound signature that many find exceptionally pleasant for both gaming and typing. The Piano's "bassy," "frictionless," and "silky" attributes create a tactile experience that appeals to those seeking a more traditional linear feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock Piano switches present an interesting comparison, particularly highlighting the interaction between different plastics and their effects on sound profiles. The Neo Lavender HE employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic material known for its softer properties. This softness results in a sound that is deeper and fuller, as nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, thereby leading to a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Durock Piano features a proprietary POM blend for both top and bottom housings. While the exact composition of this POM blend is not disclosed, it is suggested that it provides a unique sound profile that is also satisfying and rich.
Despite the differences in materials, both the Lavender HE and the Piano switches aim for a deep sound profile, although their methodologies differ. The nylon in the Lavender HE excels in sound absorption, which contributes to a muted yet rounded sound when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Piano's POM blend, while not as well understood, is reported to offer a similarly satisfying auditory experience—suggesting that even though the materials differ, they may generate a comparable depth in sound. The distinction lies in the tactile feedback and acoustic properties created by the specific blends used, which, while unique to each switch, could produce a pleasing sound profile all the same.
Furthermore, the impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience is noticeable in the shared attributes of both switches. The combination of the bottom and top housing materials influences how sound manifests when typing. In the Lavender HE, the nylon's soft characteristics affect the bottom-out sound, while the top housing contributes to the sound when releasing the key. The Durock Piano’s POM blend likewise interacts in a dual manner, facilitating a satisfying sound when pressed down and during release. This nuanced interplay means that although they utilize different materials, the end results—characterized by rich acoustic profiles—could ultimately satisfy typists seeking a profound auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch to the Durock Piano linear switch, we see notable differences in their forces, which can significantly affect the typing experience. The Neo Lavender HE has a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch that allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while its actuation force remains unspecified. This suggests that the Piano switch is better suited for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel, enhancing the typing experience for those who favor greater resistance. Overall, while both switches offer unique benefits based on their respective forces, the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter option, making it ideal for work and long gaming sessions, whereas the Durock Piano caters to those preferring a heavier switch feel.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction indicates that the Piano switch offers a more pronounced tactile experience, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more substantial keypress. In contrast, the Lavender HE's shorter travel distance may attract gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as it allows for rapid actuation. While both switches cater to different preferences, the Lavender HE will feel less abrupt due to its reduced travel, making it an attractive option for speed-oriented tasks. Overall, the Durock Piano is the longer of the two, promoting a more traditional feel, whereas the Neo Lavender HE provides a shorter travel distance for enhanced responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 its clean, low sound profile, which sets it apart from other magnetic switches. This subdued acoustic signature makes it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Durock Piano linear switch produces a deeper, bassy tone that is rich and full. The bassy nature of the Piano switch contributes to a more resonant sound during key presses, providing a different auditory experience that users may find satisfying, particularly in a suitable acoustic environment. It’s important to note, however, that the overall sound can also be affected by your choice of keyboard and keycaps, making personal adjustments essential for the best results.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Neo Lavender HE is described as generally smooth, complementing its clean acoustic profile. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch is known for its frictionless and silky characteristics, allowing for an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. This means that while the Lavender HE provides a pleasant tactile sensation, the Pianos elevate this with an almost gliding feel, minimizing any resistance when pressing the keys. This frictionless experience, coupled with the silky nature of the Durock switches, leads to a uniquely enjoyable typing experience that many users may prefer.
In summary, both the Neo Lavender HE Hall Effect switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer distinct advantages, catering to different stylistic preferences. The Lavender HE stands out for its low sound profile, which could appeal to users needing a quieter area, while the Piano's bassy and rich sound might attract those looking for a more resonant auditory experience. On the tactile side, while the Lavender HE provides a positive typing experience, the Durock Piano takes it to the next level with its frictionless and silky feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider what you value most in your typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a clean, low sound and are keen on using a Wooting keyboard, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom out force means less effort is required during extended typing sessions, which can be beneficial for casual use and gaming, where quick key presses are vital. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy 63.5 grams of resistance, the Durock Piano switch is tailored for you. This switch provides a rich, bassy sound and a silky, frictionless feel that many find delightful for both typing and gaming due to its smooth glide. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a lighter, more responsive touch or a deeper, more immersive typing sensation. Each switch has its own strengths, so weighing these factors against your personal preferences will guide you to the right decision.
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