Neo Lavender HE vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Silent Ink Black offer distinct experiences to consider. The Neo Lavender HE stands out with its innovative hall effect technology, producing a clean, low sound while providing a smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who appreciate precision without the noise—especially when used with Wooting keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black caters to those in quieter environments with its silenced design, delivering a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel combined with minimal audio feedback, perfect for users who prioritize stealth during typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE switches and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, distinct differences emerge between their compositions and the auditory experiences they generate. The Neo Lavender HE employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that tends to absorb more sound due to the material's relatively softer nature. This characteristic is conducive to producing a duller and rounder auditory experience, appealing to users who prefer a smoother and less pronounced typing sound. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black features a proprietary INK blend for its top and bottom housings, yielding a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. The INK blend's unique properties allow it to generate a satisfying typing noise that is sharp, yet not overly aggressive.
While both switches offer distinct auditory profiles due to their differing housing materials, their construction also influences the typing experience significantly. In the case of the Lavender HE, the nylon's softer qualities dominate both the bottom-out sound and overall feel during typing, providing a more muted response that aligns with the switch’s intended use of offering a quiet and cushioned experience. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black’s INK blend allows for more resonance and clarity in sound, promoting a lively sensation that many users find invigorating. However, since both switches employ a top and bottom housing of unique materials, they ultimately create unique sound dynamics that cater to different preferences.
Despite these differences, it is possible to achieve somewhat similar results when typing on both switches. The bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a crucial role in the release sound. Therefore, in scenarios where other components are controlled (such as keycap materials or typing technique), both the Lavender HE and Silent Ink Black can provide a variety of auditory experiences based on user preference. Although users may gravitate toward one switch over the other because of the specific sound profiles, the overall sensation of typing can result in a nuanced experience that enriches the performance of either switch, depending on individual tastes.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a more effortless typing experience, suitable for extended use during work or gaming. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black presents a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. This contrast highlights how the Lavender HE is better suited for lighter, longer typing sessions while the Silent Ink Black offers a more tactile push suited for users who appreciate a firmer response. Consequently, if you opt for the lighter Lavender HE, you can expect a softer and easier typing experience compared to the heavier and more forceful experience provided by the Silent Ink Black.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lavender HE offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ink Black. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm might be more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black, with its longer travel distance of 4 mm, may provide a more pronounced tactile experience that some users find preferable for deeper feedback during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences; those who favor a quicker, snappier feel should opt for the Lavender HE, whereas those who enjoy a heftier depth might lean toward the Silent Ink Black.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a clean and low sound profile, making it a noteworthy choice for those seeking a less intrusive auditory experience while typing. This characteristic sets it apart from many mainstream switches and is particularly effective in environments where sound levels need to be controlled. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is designed specifically for quieter operation, featuring a silenced design that dampens any audible feedback. This switch offers a significant reduction in noise, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces where minimal sound is essential. Although both switches aim for a low sound experience, the Silent Ink Black provides a more pronounced silencing feature, resulting in a quieter overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE provides a distinct typing experience, though specific details on its physical sensations are not described. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black is characterized by its silky smoothness, allowing for an exceptionally smooth typing experience that reduces resistance during key presses and releases. This silky texture contributes to a plush, pillow-like bottom-out feel, enhancing comfort during prolonged use. While the feel of the Lavender HE isn't detailed, users can expect that its unique design will offer some level of smooth operation, making it appealing for those sensitive to tactile feedback.
In summary, both the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches cater to users who value sound and feel but in slightly different ways. The Lavender HE focuses on a clean, low sound, suitable for quieter environments, while the Silent Ink Black emphasizes sound dampening for a silent experience combined with its silky feel. Although their sound profiles differ, both switches can deliver pleasant typing experiences, appealing to users who prioritize comfort and sound levels during their keyboard usage.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch ultimately comes down to your preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you favor a lighter touch with a clean, low sound and a unique magnetic switch experience, the Lavender HE would be an excellent choice, especially if you are considering a Wooting keyboard. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a smooth and responsive typing experience without the inconvenience of high sound levels. On the other hand, if you are in a quieter environment where minimal audio feedback is crucial, and you prefer a more substantial bottom-out feel, the Silent Ink Black would serve you well. Its medium-heavy actuation force contributes to a cushioned typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions where you desire a silky-smooth feel without distracting noise. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style, sound sensitivity, and overall comfort preferences.
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