Neo Lavender HE vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is recognized for its clean, low sound profile and innovative magnetic design, creating a unique typing experience that pairs seamlessly with Wooting keyboards. Its subtle acoustic signature may appeal to those who prioritize a quieter workspace without sacrificing responsiveness. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is celebrated for its innovative blend of characteristics, featuring a silky smooth typing feel complemented by a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still delivering a satisfying clacky bottom-out. This switch falls under a variety of categories including 'Subdued', 'Neutral', and 'Buttery', making it suitable for users who enjoy a versatile feel with minimal noise. Both switches offer fantastic benefits depending on your specific needs, but the nuances of each can greatly impact your typing experience. 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
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a distinct contrast emerges between their respective top housings. The Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound waves, resulting in a quieter, rounded auditory experience. In stark contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which lends a sharper and crisper sound profile. Because polycarbonate is stiffer than nylon, it transmits sound waves more efficiently, creating a clarity that is particularly enhanced when RGB lighting is involved, shining through its translucent surfaces. Thus, while both switches serve the purpose of providing tactile feedback, their top housing materials lead to fundamentally different auditory outcomes.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, demonstrate a significant similarity as both are constructed from nylon. This shared material ensures that the tactile experience and sound profile associated with the bottoming out of the switches remain consistent. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear, just like in the Lavender HE, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when the key is pressed all the way down. Since both switches utilize the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar muted and rounded sound profile when bottoming out, regardless of the differences present in the top housing.
Ultimately, the composite effects of the housing materials are what define the overall typing experience for each switch. The Neo Lavender HE's reliance on nylon for both the top and bottom housings creates a unified sound experience characterized by depth and warmth. Meanwhile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear achieves a more complex auditory profile by combining a nylon bottom housing that softens the bottom-out sound with a polycarbonate top housing that introduces sharpness and clarity upon release. This interplay not only affects the sound but also influences the tactile feelings experienced while typing, showcasing how the choice of materials in keyboard switches plays a crucial role in user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Lavender HE features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions due to its lower resistance. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear does not specify an actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This greater bottom out force contributes to a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push while typing. Thus, while the Lavender HE is the lighter switch overall, offering a more delicate typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, with its unspecified actuation force but heavier bottom out, caters to users looking for more resistance and durability in their keystrokes. For a typing experience that emphasizes longevity and ease, the Neo Lavender HE is the better choice, whereas the Jwick is ideal for those who favor a more tactile and resilient key feel.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch differ slightly in their travel distances, with the Lavender HE measuring 3.8 mm and the Semi-Silent Linear at 3.7 mm. This makes the Semi-Silent Linear the shorter option by just 0.1 mm, favoring those who prefer a more responsive feel, particularly useful in gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Lavender HE, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, providing a more pronounced tactile experience. While both switches are relatively close in their measurements, the slight variation can impact the overall typing experience, where a shorter distance can lead to quicker response times, whereas a longer distance may enhance comfort for extended use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 switch is characterized by a clean, low sound profile that makes it stand out among magnetic switches, particularly in conjunction with Wooting keyboards. This results in an experience that prioritizes smoothness without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch aims for a more subdued auditory experience, producing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound combined with a clacky bottom-out sound. Its neutral sound profile ensures that it will not be intrusive, making it suitable for both office environments and home use. While the Lavender HE has its unique qualities, the Semi-Silent offers versatility in sound that would appeal to a broader range of users.
When it comes to feel, the Lavender HE's qualities are not specified, leaving an unknown quality in this comparison. However, the Semi-Silent Linear is noted for its mild characteristics, which offer a gentle typing experience that is accessible to both novice and seasoned users. It also incorporates a snappy response, likely owing to its spring design, that enhances the responsiveness, making each keystroke feel lively. Additionally, the buttery and polished finishes contribute to a seamless and refined typing sensation, leading to an overall smooth experience. If the Lavender HE shares any particular tactile properties, they might resonate similarly in providing a comfortable typing experience; however, the specifics remain unclear.
Taking into account the sound and feel of both switches, the Neo Lavender HE offers a unique and clean auditory experience with an undetermined tactile quality, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear boasts a more subdued sound profile paired with a range of tactile sensations that cater to a variety of preferences. For newcomers, selecting between the two will depend on whether they prioritize a smooth auditory output or a balance of gentleness and responsiveness in their typing experience. Both switches provide appealing attributes, but their unique characteristics may align differently with individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch should largely depend on your specific typing preferences and the environments in which you'll be using them. If you favor a lighter switch with a clean, low sound profile, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice. It excels in providing a smooth, responsive feel, perfect for fast typists who might also appreciate the innovative electronic design, especially if you're using a Wooting keyboard. On the other hand, if you seek a balanced typing experience with a slightly firmer feel and a more subdued sound signature, the Semi-Silent Linear is worth your consideration. Its medium bottom-out force offers a versatile response, making it suitable for both home and office environments while maintaining a whisper-quiet topping-out sound. Ultimately, if you prioritize a silky and refined typing experience with a bit of character, go for the Semi-Silent Linear, but if you’re after something light and efficient with a clean auditory footprint, the Neo Lavender HE is the way to go.
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