Neo Lavender HE vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Neo Lavender HE and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound and smooth operation, particularly appealing to users who appreciate a quieter typing experience. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards further enhances its attractiveness for gamers and typists seeking precision. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out for its impressive tactility, delivering a punchy response and a sharp, satisfying "clack" that resonates with users who thrive on the tactile feedback while typing. Categorized with descriptors like 'Resonant' and 'Snappy', the T1 offers an invigorating experience that many find exhilarating. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on your personal preferences—whether you're drawn to the minimalist sound of the Lavender HE or the dynamic feedback of the POM T1. 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
67g
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
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches showcase distinct yet complementary materials in their housing that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Neo Lavender HE utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound experience. This is largely due to the softer nature of nylon, allowing it to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 features a POM top and bottom housing, which, while also resulting in a deeper sound, presents a unique character that is equally pleasing and muted. The blending of materials used in these switches highlights how the choice of housing can distinctively influence the auditory experience of typing.
When examining the impact of these materials on the sound profile, it’s important to note the specifics of each switch’s design. The Neo Lavender HE's nylon structure emphasizes a rounder sound through both top and bottom housings, creating a cohesive auditory experience that feels rich and satisfying. In contrast, the Durock POM T1’s POM housing offers a slightly different aesthetic, where the muted sound signature paired with its unique tonal qualities contributes to a more nuanced typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches tend to yield a sound that is preferred by typists who enjoy deep, dampened keystrokes, suggesting that even with varied materials, similar auditory results can be achieved.
Ultimately, the split role of the housing materials enhances the typing experience in differing ways. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. In both switches, the influence of the nylon and POM materials is evident, whether through the warmth of the Lavender HE or the unique resonance of the POM T1. For users choosing between the two, the differences in sound character may sway preferences, but both switches are designed to deliver a delightful sound profile that elevates the overall typing experience. Whether through the classic softness of nylon or the distinctive properties of POM, both options stand out as premier choices for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch present distinctly different actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Lavender HE boasts a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who appreciate less resistance, which can contribute to longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the POM T1 lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it within a medium-heavy category. This absence of a defined actuation force indicates that it might require a more substantial force to engage compared to the Lavender HE, appealing to users who prefer a firmer and more pronounced tactile feel when typing. Consequently, the Lavender HE is lighter overall, while the POM T1 is heavier, making the former more suitable for extended use, while the latter may satisfy those seeking a robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch differ slightly, with the Lavender HE measuring 3.8 mm and the POM T1 at 4 mm. This makes the Neo Lavender HE the shorter option, which could appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its more concise actuation. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper feel while typing, as it allows for a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference: the Lavender HE offers a more responsive experience, while the POM T1 caters to those who enjoy a more satisfying depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) 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
When it comes to sound, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a clean and low sound profile that is distinctively quiet, making it suitable for environments where noise reduction is a priority. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a more resonant auditory experience with a higher-pitched sound that is both clean and sharp, resulting in a satisfying clack with each keystroke. This variance in sound can significantly influence the typing atmosphere, as the Lavender HE could be perceived as more discreet and professional, while the POM T1 delivers an engaging and immersive auditory feedback that some users may find energizing.
In terms of feel, the Neo Lavender HE switch offers a smooth typing experience, making it appealing to users who prefer a serene touch without excessive tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Durock POM T1 exemplifies sharp tactility with a strong and crisp tactile bump, delivering pronounced feedback that can be distinctly felt with every keypress. The POM T1 also incorporates characteristics such as being snappy and invigorating, which means it provides a responsive and lively feel during typing sessions. This stark contrast creates a unique typing sensation that caters to different preferences: a smooth, quiet approach versus a tactile, responsive engagement.
In conclusion, if you favor a quiet and clean sound profile, the Neo Lavender HE might be your optimal choice. However, if you seek a more resonant sound and an engaging tactile experience, the Durock POM T1 won’t disappoint. Each switch offers distinct auditory and tactile characteristics, thus the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. Both switches cater to different typing experiences, ensuring that regardless of your needs, there is an option that aligns perfectly with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter, more responsive feel with a clean and low sound that allows for a pleasant typing experience without being too overwhelming, the Neo Lavender HE would be the ideal choice for you. This switch shines particularly well in environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred, making it suitable for shared or professional spaces, especially if you are using a Wooting keyboard. Conversely, if you are looking for maximum tactility and a punchy, sharp feedback with medium-heavy resistance, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would be more suitable. This switch’s pronounced tactile bump provides a satisfying response, making it particularly invigorating for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience, whether for gaming or long typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not only your tactile and auditory preferences but also the primary context in which you will be using your mechanical keyboard.
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