Neo Lavender HE vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, each bringing unique characteristics to the table. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is renowned for its clean and low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users seeking discreet and sophisticated key presses. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, classified as a linear switch, offers a buttery smooth typing experience thanks to its progressive spring and innovative dry-lube design, which minimizes friction and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. While the Lavender HE appeals to those who prioritize a quiet operation and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, the Sea Salt Lemon caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a seamless and gentle keystroke for both gaming and typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches present an intriguing comparison when it comes to their housing materials, particularly in their top housings. The Lavender HE is constructed with a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which effectively absorbs sound. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon employs a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This is primarily attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffer composition, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. While the Lavender HE may cater to those who prefer a more muted auditory experience, the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate leads to a brighter tone, showcasing how different materials can significantly alter the acoustic qualities of the switches.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a common ground in their overall sound profiles. With both featuring nylon in the lower section, they share the characteristic of producing a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out. The nylon’s ability to absorb noise leads to a sound that is more rounded and less harsh compared to switches with stiffer materials. Consequently, while the two switches differ in the top housing and the sound that is produced on key release, they align in terms of the tactile experience and the sound created when a key is fully pressed down, ensuring that users will enjoy a similar auditory depth from the bottom housing regardless of the top.
In essence, the combination of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches guarantees a consistent auditory experience when typing, while the contrasting top housing materials create distinct sound profiles on release. The Lavender HE's nylon top produces a muted sound, while the polycarbonate top of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon yields a brighter and more resonant tone. Ultimately, the interplay between these materials emphasizes that users can achieve unique sound experiences based on housing materials, while still appreciating a common depth and resonance during the act of pressing the keys.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, we can see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which provides a more substantial feel under the fingers. While both switches are on the lighter side of the spectrum, the Lavender HE is lighter overall compared to the Sea Salt Lemon. This means that users seeking a light switch for comfort during prolonged use might gravitate toward the Lavender HE, whereas those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more engaging typing experience might opt for the Sea Salt Lemon.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, the differences are notable. The Neo Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lavender HE provides a shorter journey when pressed, potentially catering to those who prefer quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon's longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial and hearty feel when typing, allowing for greater depth in their keystrokes. Thus, while both switches can deliver satisfactory performance depending on personal preference, the Lavender HE is the shorter option, and the Sea Salt Lemon is the longer 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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80.
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
The sound profile of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is characterized by a clean, low sound that distinguishes it from many conventional magnetic switches. In comparison, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound that is also neutral, creating a mellow auditory experience. Together, both switches emphasize a softer sound profile suitable for various environments, making them excellent choices for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, it’s important to note that the ultimate sound will also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap combinations used with these switches.
When it comes to the tactile feel, the Neo Lavender HE's characteristics are not specified, leaving an aspect of its experience unknown. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is designed to provide a mild typing sensation, making the overall experience gentle and accessible. This mildness ensures that the typing feedback remains approachable for users of all levels, hence promoting longer typing sessions without fatigue. If the Lavender HE has a similarly smooth or gentle feel, users can expect comfort in their typing experience, but without specific information, we can't confirm a direct comparison.
In summary, both the Neo Lavender HE and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches stand out for their sound and feel characteristics, providing a clean sound and a mild typing sensation, respectively. The low sound profiles of both switches cater to users looking for quieter operation, while the approachability of the Sea Salt Lemon’s feel creates a gentle typing experience. Depending on the unknown qualities of the Lavender HE, there may be areas of overlap, particularly in creating a comfortable environment for typing. Ultimately, both options present worthwhile features for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light key press with a clean, low sound and a smooth typing experience, especially in a gaming context or with a Wooting keyboard, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice. Its unique hall effect mechanism enhances its distinct feel and sound, making it stand out for those seeking a more specialized typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly firmer pressing force and appreciate a buttery smooth and mild typing sensation suitable for both casual and professional environments, then the Sea Salt Lemon would serve you well. Its balanced progression and neutral sound profile allow it to fit seamlessly into any setting, making it a versatile option for both beginners and seasoned typists. Ultimately, consider your keyboarding habits, sound preferences, and feel preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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