Neo Lavender HE vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Silent Brown 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 Brown present two distinct yet appealing options that cater to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, known for its clean and low sound profile, utilizes hall effect technology, which not only contributes to its longevity but also ensures a unique and smooth typing experience. Compatible with Wooting keyboards, it stands out among magnetic switches, making it an intriguing choice for gamers and typists seeking a quieter performance. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown offers a tactile switch experience characterized by a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a light to medium resistance level. With its buttery, muted, and polished feel, this switch provides a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, especially valued by those who appreciate tactile feedback without the distraction of excessive noise. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 the TTC Silent Brown switches feature distinct housing materials that contribute uniquely to their acoustic profiles. The Neo Lavender HE utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, as a softer plastic, absorbs sound more efficiently compared to the stiffer materials used in other switch housings. This results in a typing experience that generates a duller and rounder sound when a key is pressed or released. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing. This material is inherently stiffer, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. The polycarbonate’s clarity and translucency also enhance its appeal for those using RGB lighting, emphasizing the visual aspect each keystroke produces.
When considering the bottom housings, both switches share a commonality with nylon. The bottom housing of the Neo Lavender HE and the Silent Brown is made from nylon, which contributes to a similar deeper, fuller sound profile. This aligns with the classic properties of nylon, as it dampens sound and creates a more rounded auditory experience. Consequently, even though the top housing between the two switches differs significantly in material, the bottom housing remains consistent, allowing for a general fulfillment of sound characteristics associated with nylon. This consistency reveals that both switches will deliver a rich auditory experience, especially when the key is bottomed out, emphasizing the role of the bottom housing in sound production.
Overall, the contrasting top housing materials significantly affect the overall sound profiles of the two switches. The Neo Lavender HE, with its nylon top, creates an inherently dampened and soft auditory experience, while the TTC Silent Brown, with its polycarbonate top, results in a brighter and clearer sound. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that the fundamental auditory characteristics centered around dampening and sound absorption remain intact. As such, users can anticipate a cohesive typing experience from both switches, where the unique textures and sounds of each contribute to diverse preferences in keyboard feel and auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo Lavender HE switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions, especially for those who prefer a light touch. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some typists might prefer for a tactile experience. While both switches provide unique benefits—lighter for long use and heavier for a stronger feedback—the Lavender HE's overall lighter profile enhances comfort during extended use, whereas the Silent Brown may appeal to those seeking a firmer typing sensation. Consequently, users can select the switch that best matches their typing preferences based on these force measurements.
Travel distance
Both the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm, which means that users will experience a similar keypress depth when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches can provide comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness when pressed, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a consistent keystroke experience. Consequently, regardless of the choice between the two, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance traveled by the switch when a key is pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown 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 Brown for $5.00.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches, the Neo Lavender HE is recognized for its clean, low sound that stands out among magnetic switches, especially when paired with Wooting keyboards. This characteristic allows it to provide an unobtrusive auditory experience, positioning it as an excellent choice for quiet work environments or for those who prefer minimal noise. In contrast, the Silent Brown is noted for its muted sound that notably reduces the typical clackiness associated with mechanical keyboards. This muted quality creates a softer auditory feedback, further enhancing the overall typing experience by minimizing distractions. Both switches cater to users seeking a quieter experience, yet the Lavender HE may be favored by those who appreciate its unique sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE is characterized by its clean keystrokes, providing a smooth experience that can appeal to typists looking for precision. The TTC Silent Brown, on the other hand, is recognized for its buttery, mild, and polished feel. The rounded tactile bump of the Silent Brown provides satisfying feedback without overwhelming resistance, creating a gentle typing experience that suits a variety of users. The polished nature of the switch ensures reduced friction, allowing for a seamless key travel that makes typing a pleasure. Although the specific tactile experience of the Lavender HE is not detailed, users might find it similar in its pursuit of a refined feel.
In summary, both the Neo Lavender HE and TTC Silent Brown switches offer compelling auditory and tactile experiences that cater to similar preferences, although they employ different mechanisms to achieve them. The clean, low sound of the Lavender HE combines with its precise keystroke to create a unique typing environment, while the muted sound and rounded tactile feedback of the Silent Brown provide a more traditional yet refined experience. Users will find that while both options emphasize quietness and comfort, their distinct qualities will ultimately determine which switch aligns best with their individual typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing requirements. If you prioritize a light keystroke with a smoother and quieter typing experience, particularly for gaming or fast-paced input, the Neo Lavender HE is the ideal choice. Its clean, low sound and responsive feel cater well to gamers or users who enjoy a more fluid typing motion. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback and a slightly heavier resistance for a more deliberate typing style, the TTC Silent Brown will likely serve you better. Its buttery smooth and polished feel, combined with a muted sound profile, makes it an attractive option for both typing and general use, especially in quieter environments where you want to minimize distraction. In the end, your decision should reflect how you typically engage with your keyboard, whether that leans towards the fast-paced precision offered by the Lavender HE or the refined, tactile experience provided by the Silent Brown.
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