Neo Lavender HE vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options are the Neo Lavender HE and the TTC Speed Silver, each offering unique features tailored to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean and low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate quieter keystrokes without sacrificing performance. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards further enhances its appeal for gamers seeking precision and responsiveness. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver is designed for speed enthusiasts, characterized by a reduced travel distance that facilitates quick and effortless actuation. With a light to medium level of resistance and a polished sound profile, these linear switches provide a fast and precise typing experience, making them ideal for gamers and typists alike who prioritize agility in their keystrokes. While both switches cater to distinct user needs—whether it's the silent assurance of the Neo Lavender HE or the rapid response of the TTC Speed Silver—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver differ significantly in their choice of materials for the top housing, which directly influences their acoustic output and tactile characteristics. The Neo Lavender HE utilizes a nylon top housing, well-known in the mechanical switch community for imparting a softer and more muted sound profile. This material absorbs sound waves due to its relatively softer composition, producing a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffness, thereby rendering a sharper and crisper sound. This material provides a more resonant quality, leading to a distinctly different auditory experience that tends to heighten the tonal clarity of keystrokes, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon materials, further complicating the comparison. The Neo Lavender HE's nylon bottom housing mirrors that of the Speed Silver, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing properties. This consistency in material between the bottom sections of both switches ensures that the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback will share a similar aesthetic quality, enriching the overall typing experience. The commonality in the use of nylon for the bottom housing indicates that both switches will elicit a comparable feel when keys bottom out, reinforcing the richness in sound and touch that users crave in mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches leads to a unique blend of audio and tactile experiences. While the Neo Lavender HE's top housing may result in a more subdued keypress sound due to its nylon composition, the TTC Speed Silver's polycarbonate top elevates the clarity of each keystroke. However, since both switches share nylon in their bottom housing, users can expect similar bottom-out characteristics, allowing for a deeper connection between the auditory and tactile feedback. Hence, despite their differences in sound profiles, players of either switch can enjoy an engaging typing experience, albeit with distinct tonal responses present during the keystroke release.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we can see some distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the Speed Silver has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it as a medium-light switch. This means that while both switches are relatively light, the Lavender HE requires less force to actuate, appealing to those who favor a more effortless typing experience for long periods, whether in a work or gaming scenario. Conversely, the Speed Silver, with its heavier forces, may attract users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Overall, users looking for a lighter touch would gravitate towards the Neo Lavender HE, while those who appreciate a stronger push will likely prefer the TTC Speed Silver.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch highlight a notable difference in their design and intended user experience. The Lavender HE has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option between the two, while the Speed Silver features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This discrepancy can significantly affect the feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers and those who favor quick, responsive keystrokes may prefer the Speed Silver for its shorter travel, which caters to faster response times. Conversely, users who appreciate a more pronounced depth when pressing keys might find the Lavender HE's travel distance more appealing, as it provides a more substantial feedback sensation. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding response speed and keystroke depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 it comes to sound, the Neo Lavender HE switch is known for its clean, low sound profile, providing a more subdued auditory experience that sets it apart from many other magnetic switches. This characteristic makes it an appealing option for users who prefer a quieter typing environment. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver switch features a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance with a moderate actuation force. This allows for a versatile auditory experience that is suitable for various settings, whether at home or in a professional environment. Both switches stand out for their unique sound qualities, but the Lavender HE leans towards a more discrete sound, making it potentially better suited for quieter spaces.
In terms of feel, the Neo Lavender HE offers an unknown tactile experience compared to the TTC Speed Silver, which is characterized by a mild feel that provides an approachable and gentle typing experience. The Speed Silver's polished feel enhances the overall typing experience by ensuring smooth key travel, attributed to the refined finish from either quality materials or factory lubing. While the feel of the Lavender HE is not explicitly detailed, it can be anticipated to provide a unique experience that complements its sound profile. The Speed Silver's mild and polished characteristics make it suitable for a broader audience, indexing toward comfort and accessibility.
In conclusion, the Neo Lavender HE and TTC Speed Silver switches each provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences suitable for different user preferences. The Lavender HE's clean and low sound profile makes it ideal for a quieter typing experience, while the Speed Silver offers a neutral sound that caters to various environments and a mild, polished feel for a comfortable typing session. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal priorities regarding sound, feel, and the intended usage scenario. Both can deliver favorable results, but they cater to different aspects of user experience in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch largely depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you seek a light touch and enjoy a clean, low sound profile while typing, the Lavender HE is a fantastic option. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it suitable for users who prefer a gentler typing experience and appreciate the compatibility with Wooting keyboards. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision, the TTC Speed Silver is your go-to switch. With its slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams, it provides a balanced yet quick typing experience, making it ideal for gamers or anyone who values swift responses. The neutral sound and mild feel of the Speed Silver also make it versatile for various settings, whether at home or in an office environment. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the environments you'll be using the keyboard in, and what aspects of the switch are most important to you when making your decision.
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