Neo Lavender HE vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable contenders are the Neo Lavender HE and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, each with its unique strengths catering to different user preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound profile and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience and seek a distinctive magnetic switch technology. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro, known for its linear characteristics, is engineered specifically for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes, a satisfying bassy sound, and a light actuation force that ensures rapid response times—traits that are particularly advantageous in high-stakes gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. While each switch appeals to different needs—be it tranquility or speed—choosing between them ultimately depends on your specific requirements for a typing or gaming experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, notable differences can be observed in their top housings. The Neo Lavender HE utilizes nylon for its top housing, a classic material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a sound that is rounder and less sharp. This contrasts with the polycarbonate top housing of the Akko V3 Silver Pro, which tends to produce a clearer, crisper sound due to its stiffer composition. The choice of polycarbonate not only impacts the auditory experience but also enhances the switch's aesthetic qualities, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it an attractive option for those who want their keyboard illumination to shine through.
Despite the difference in top housing materials, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing. This unification in material means that the typing experience's bottom-out sound and feel will be more consistent across both models. As nylon is a softer plastic, both switches will provide the same deep and full sound profile for the bottom housing. This characteristic will lend a sense of warmth to the overall typing experience. Therefore, even though the top housings contribute distinct sound profiles, the bottom housing material harmonizes the overall experience, providing a shared foundation of softness that permeates both switches.
In essence, while the Neo Lavender HE and the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilize different materials for their top housings, their identical nylon bottom housings create a common sound characteristic that unites the two. The Lavender HE's nylon top provides a rounder tone, contrasting with the sharper sound from the polycarbonate of the V3 Silver Pro. Nonetheless, users can enjoy a similar tactile experience during the bottom-out phase, as the nylon bottom housing in both switches makes for a deeper and fuller sound. This characteristic helps bridge the differences in the switches, allowing typists to find a satisfying blend of auditory qualities, whether they prefer the rich tones of the Lavender HE or the crisper sounds of the V3 Silver Pro.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, one will notice some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 40 grams, making them equivalent in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Lavender HE exhibiting a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. This makes the Neo Lavender HE the heavier switch overall, as it requires more force to fully depress than the Akko V3 Silver Pro. As a result, users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial push feel might opt for the Lavender HE despite their equal actuation forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro measures 3.3 mm. This makes the V3 Silver Pro the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who prefer quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can enhance performance in fast-paced scenarios. On the other hand, the Lavender HE's longer travel distance may provide a more tactile feel, which some users find preferable for a fulfilling typing experience. In essence, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: those seeking rapid actuation might lean towards the V3 Silver Pro, while those favoring a deeper keypress may opt for the Lavender HE.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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, low sound that helps it stand out, particularly when used in Wooting keyboards, highlighting its unique characteristics among magnetic switches. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is engineered with a focus on gaming, producing a pleasing bassy sound upon keystroke. While both switches exhibit sound profiles that cater to different preferences—one being more subdued and the other more resonant—they provide distinct auditory experiences that complement their respective designs. However, it's important to note that the sound can be influenced by the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE switch is noted for its responsiveness and ease of use, though specific details about its tactile feedback are unspecified. The Akko V3 Silver Pro, on the other hand, boasts an easy-to-press mechanism that significantly reduces the force required to actuate a key. Its creamy, polished, feathery, and silky characteristics contribute to a smooth and pleasant typing experience, making it effortless to glide through keystrokes without experiencing finger fatigue. This emphasis on a comfortable tactile experience is particularly beneficial during long periods of use, whether for work or gaming.
In conclusion, while both the Neo Lavender HE and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches provide distinct auditory and tactile qualities, they cater to different user preferences and needs. The Lavender HE favors a clean sound and responsive feel that supports the gaming environment, while the V3 Silver Pro shines with its bassy auditory feedback and notably smooth, light touch. Ultimately, users seeking either a low sound experience or a more immersive auditory profile will find capable options in these switches, each with characteristics that can lead to a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a more specialized experience with a unique sound profile that emphasizes a clean, low noise while typing, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice, especially if you're using a Wooting keyboard. It's particularly suitable for activities like typing or casual gaming, where a light 50-gram actuation force can enhance comfort over extended sessions. On the other hand, if you're focused on competitive gaming and need a switch that prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the V3 Silver Pro is engineered just for that. With its lighter 45-gram actuation force, short travel distance, and a creamy, polished feel, it allows for effortless key presses, enabling faster reactions crucial in high-paced environments. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you engage with your keyboard—whether you prioritize a serene typing experience or a responsive gaming performance.
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