Neo Lavender HE vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Neo Lavender HE and the Huano Sakura, each bringing unique attributes to the table. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is praised for its clean, low sound profile and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, offering a smooth typing experience devoid of the typical clicky noise associated with many other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura, categorized as a linear switch, is favored for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it a great choice for those who engage in extended typing sessions without the fatigue of heavier resistance. Each switch has its own merits: if you prioritize quiet operation and precision, the Lavender HE might be your best bet, while the Sakura could be the ideal option for comfort and ease. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and the Huano Sakura stand out for their use of different materials in their top housings, which significantly influences the acoustic and tactile experiences they provide. The Lavender HE utilizes nylon, known for its softer composition that contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. When typing on switches made with nylon, users often appreciate the muted acoustic properties, as the material absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura features a POK (polyketone) top housing, renowned for its smooth texture and impressive durability. While it may offer a slightly different acoustic experience—described as smooth and clacky due to its higher coefficient of friction—the essential typing characteristics still deliver satisfying feedback and resilience, demonstrating that different materials can yield distinct yet appealing auditory profiles.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, we find them identical in composition, both made from nylon. This consistency implies that both the Neo Lavender HE and the Huano Sakura will produce a similar sound profile at the bottom-out stage. Since nylon is effective at absorbing sound, users can expect that the deeper and rounder qualities associated with the bottom housing will be markedly similar across both switches. This shared bottom housing material allows for consistency in the foundational tactile experience, regardless of the distinctions present in the top housings. Thus, when pressed, both switches will exhibit a comparable impact on the auditory feedback and overall feel when the key is fully actuated.
In terms of overall performance, the varying materials of the top housings create an interesting dynamic between the two switches. The Lavender HE’s nylon top housing contributes to a deeper sound when releasing a key, while the Sakura’s POK material promotes a crisper and more resonant sound. However, since both switch families employ nylon in their bottom housings, the desired typing experience will still resonate with users who enjoy the rich sound profile brought by softer plastics. Additionally, each switch retains tactile feedback and sound characteristics that appeal to specific preferences, showing that even with differing materials, similar results can be achieved based on the harmonization between the bottom and top housings.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, we can see that both options provide a lightweight experience for typists and gamers. The Lavender HE exhibits an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sakura offers a slightly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura switch is the lighter option, requiring less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Lavender HE. Both switches maintain a light feel that can reduce typing fatigue during extended use, making them suitable for work and long gaming sessions. However, the Lavender HE presents a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push while typing. Overall, while both switches are on the lighter side, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces allow for some variance in user preference regarding typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the Neo Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Huano Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lavender HE provides a deeper press compared to the Sakura, making it potentially more appealing for those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. On the other hand, the Sakura’s shorter travel distance could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Huano Sakura's 3.6 mm distance may be the better choice, but if you favor a more pronounced depth, the 3.8 mm travel of the Neo Lavender HE is the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 known for its clean, low sound profile, which can make it a quieter option compared to many traditional mechanical switches. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch offers a medium acoustic level, providing a gentle auditory feedback that is neither too loud nor too soft. Both switches have their unique sound qualities, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. It's worth noting that the overall sound will also be influenced by your keyboard's build and the keycap material you choose.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE is praised for its smooth operation, which pairs well with the hall effect technology, leading to a satisfying and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch features a feather-light touch, making it particularly appealing for extensive typing sessions where fatigue can become a factor. While both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, the primary difference lies in the weight of the actuation and the overall resistance, catering to varying preferences for tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Neo Lavender HE and Huano Sakura switches provide distinctive qualities in sound and feel that can cater to different typing preferences. The Lavender HE's clean and low sound makes it an excellent choice for a quieter environment, while the Sakura’s medium acoustics and feather-light touch appeal to those looking for a gentle and efficient user experience. Choosing between the two will ultimately come down to the particular auditory and tactile experiences you desire in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a clean, low sound profile and are using a compatible Wooting keyboard, the Lavender HE may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a lightweight option that also offers a unique typing experience due to its magnetic technology. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that provides a feather-light touch with medium acoustics, particularly for extended typing sessions, the Sakura switch would likely serve you better, given your desire for comfort over longer periods. Both options are designed for light touch with similar bottom-out forces, but they cater to different acoustic and tactile preferences; consider what matters most to you in both sound and feel. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you lean towards a more innovative switch with distinct acoustics or a classic linear option that excels in endurance and comfort.
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