Neo Lavender HE vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) present distinct options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Neo Lavender HE, known for its clean and low sound profile, utilizes Hall effect technology, making it particularly appealing for gamers and typists looking for a quieter operation and responsiveness; it pairs seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, allowing for innovative input methods. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a medium tactile feel that provides satisfying resistance for precision during each keystroke. Its design focuses on reducing noise while maintaining a subtle feedback sensation, making it an ideal choice for office environments or shared spaces where silence is a priority. While both switches promise unique advantages—whether it's the advanced technology of the Lavender HE or the muted tactility of the Silent Bluish White—understanding their specific characteristics can greatly influence your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) are constructed from distinct materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic characteristics. This material absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. Conversely, the Silent Bluish White (V2) contains a polycarbonate top housing, delivering a crisper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Therefore, while both switches may deliver satisfying tactile feedback, the auditory results differ quite markedly due to the contrasting materials in their top housings.
When it comes to their bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, leading to a uniformity in sound feedback at the bottom-out phase. Similar to the top housing of the Lavender HE, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. This shared bottom housing material means that both switches will feel comparable when pressed down, as the nylon absorbs sound and creates a solid experience when bottoming out. This consistency in material at the bottom emphasizes the importance of the top housing in defining the sound profile when the switches are released.
Together, the combination of different materials creates a unique blend of auditory experiences in each switch. The Neo Lavender HE's nylon top and bottom housing results in a consistent yet rounded sound throughout, ideal for a user seeking a warmer acoustic environment. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) delivers a vibrant experience with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom, making it appealing for users who appreciate enhanced clarity and brightness, especially in RGB-lighting scenarios. Ultimately, while the bottom housings share similarities, the different top materials play a crucial role in shaping their distinct sound profiles, ensuring both can cater to varied preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, we find that both switches exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force for the Lavender HE is measured at 40 grams, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that once a user presses the key all the way down, the pressure required to reach this point is consistent. For users who favor a lighter touch, the Lavender HE may be more appealing due to its lower actuation force, which could make typing over extended periods more comfortable. Conversely, those who prefer a firmer push could opt for the Silent Bluish White (V2), which offers a marginally heavier feel at actuation. Ultimately, while both switches are light overall, the Lavender HE provides an easier actuation, making it preferable for long typing sessions or gaming, whereas the Silent Bluish White (V2) gives users a bit more resistance suitable for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys, the Lavender HE provides a deeper engagement compared to the more succinct actuation of the Silent Bluish White. For those who favor gaming and quick response times, the shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White may be more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation. Conversely, if someone prefers a more substantial feel with a hearty depth in their key presses, the Neo Lavender HE's longer travel distance would be the better choice. In summary, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Lavender HE allows for a deeper key press at 3.8 mm, making it the longer of the two, compared to the more compressed feel of the Silent Bluish White at 3.5 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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
The sound profile of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is characterized by a clean and low sound, distinctive for a mechanical switch, thanks to its magnetic design. It creates a less intrusive auditory environment, making it suitable for various settings. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is designed to be muted, delivering a softer and quieter acoustic signature. This switch minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, ideal for office or shared living spaces where quieter operation is a priority. Both switches present a relatively peaceful sound experience, with the Lavender HE leaning towards a subtle richness while the Silent Bluish White V2 emphasizes silence.
Regarding feel, the Neo Lavender HE switch's unique characteristics are less defined in the provided information, but the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a notably smooth and buttery keystroke experience. It features a medium tactile feel, achieving a satisfying resistance that enhances the typing experience. The feel can be described as mild, stepping, and polished, providing both a gentle resistance and a refined finish that reduces friction. The tactile feedback is subtle enough to be non-intrusive yet distinct, ensuring a comfortable typing experience suitable for prolonged use. While the exact feel of the Lavender HE isn't specified, if it shares qualities of being smooth or having gentle resistance, users might find a comparable typing experience.
In summary, both switches cater to users looking for low sound levels and a satisfying typing experience. The Neo Lavender HE switch presents a unique clean and low sound with potentially smooth feel characteristics, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) prioritizes a muted sound and a buttery smooth tactile experience. If you're seeking a balance of quiet and comfort in your typing experience, either option could serve you well, provided that the feel of the Lavender HE resonates with your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a clean, low sound and are seeking a light actuation with smooth transitions, the Neo Lavender HE is an excellent choice, especially if you're using a Wooting keyboard that supports its magnetic technology. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy fast-paced gaming and desire a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that combines a medium tactile feel with a muted sound profile, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is the way to go. This switch excels in shared spaces like offices or living environments, offering a buttery smooth experience that is both satisfying and approachable, thanks to its subtlety and polished feel. In essence, your ideal switch will hinge on whether you value the unique benefits of hall effect technology or the reliable comfort and quietness of a traditional tactile switch.
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