Neo Lavender HE vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two standout options are the Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Strawberry. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound and is compatible with Wooting keyboards, making it a great choice for those seeking a seamless and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch, entices users with its striking pink and clear housings and is praised for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the Lavender HE offers a unique magnetic switching experience that minimizes noise, the Strawberry excels in providing a silky, buttery typing experience. Each switch has its specific advantages, with the Lavender HE appealing to those who prioritize acoustics and magnetic technology, while the Strawberry attracts users looking for a consistently smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and the KTT Strawberry switches utilize distinct materials for their respective housings, which fundamentally shape their acoustic and tactile characteristics. The Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which effectively absorbs sound and creates a smooth, rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and thus generates a brighter, more resonant sound profile. This stark difference in material properties not only influences the sound produced during key presses but also affects the overall feel and aesthetics of the switches, especially in scenarios where RGB lighting is a consideration.
Both switches utilize nylon and polycarbonate for their bottom housings, mirroring the material composition seen in their tops. The Lavender HE's nylon bottom housing reinforces the softer sound characteristic, ensuring that the overall key feel remains rich and plush, especially at the point of bottoming out. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing reinforces clarity and brightness in sound, further enhancing the snap and crispness. This divergence in materials leads to a split in how sound is perceived during both the actuation and release of the keys, highlighting the interplay of the two materials in creating unique audio experiences.
In examining the qualities of both switches, it becomes clear that the interaction of housing materials results in distinct sound profiles and tactile responses. The Lavender HE’s configuration, with its emphasis on softer nylon, generates a more muted acoustics coupled with a broader feel, while the stiffer, more transparent housing of the Strawberry focuses on clarity and resonance, particularly advantageous for visually enhanced setups with RGB lighting. While the difference in materials would typically suggest contrasting experiences, those with an ear for nuances may appreciate how both designs cater to diverse preferences, ultimately offering varied yet satisfying results based on one’s typing style and aesthetic inclinations.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it from a tactile standpoint more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lower resistance. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry boasts a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. This additional resistance can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier touch. Consequently, users might find the Lavender HE easier on the fingers over prolonged use, while the Strawberry might appeal to those who favor a firmer press. Thus, the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter option, whereas the KTT Strawberry is the heavier one, creating distinct experiences tailored to user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, the Lavender HE measures at 3.8 mm, while the Strawberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Lavender HE the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional and hearty depth, which some users might prefer for a smoother and more satisfying typing experience. Therefore, choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for travel distance—whether one seeks rapid actuation or a more pronounced feedback during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 hall effect switch produces a clean and low sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a quieter typing experience. This characteristic sets it apart from many traditional mechanical switches, which can sometimes sound harsher or more pronounced. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound, which lends a bass-heavy and mellow tone to each keystroke. This low-pitched quality contributes to a sound that is soft and gentle, perfect for users seeking a less obtrusive auditory experience. While both switches favor quieter operation, the Lavender HE's clean sound may resonate better with those who specifically prioritize a neat acoustic environment.
In terms of feel, the Neo Lavender HE switch has yet to be explicitly detailed, leaving curiosity about its tactile response and overall typing experience. Nonetheless, users can expect a unique feel characteristic of hall effect switches, which typically offers a consistent experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry excels in smoothness, being described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. This range of descriptors highlights an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes any sense of resistance or friction. The fluidity in the travel mechanism of the Strawberry makes it highly appealing to typists and gamers alike, resulting in a refined and enjoyable interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, while the Neo Lavender HE switch offers a clean and low sound, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched tone and remarkable smoothness. The subjective qualities of each switch cater to different preferences, with the former focusing on sound clarity and the latter emphasizing a luxurious typing feel. For those seeking a quieter switch with potentially unique characteristics, the Lavender HE might be ideal. At the same time, the KTT Strawberry provides a silky, effortless typing experience that many users find compelling. Each switch will ultimately meet distinct needs in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a clean, low sound, and you're interested in experiencing the unique technology of magnetic switches, the Lavender HE might be the ideal choice for you, especially if you're utilizing a Wooting keyboard. This switch's lightweight feel makes it suitable for fast-paced typing and gaming, offering a very distinct experience. On the other hand, if you value a medium bottom out force with a smooth, frictionless typing sensation, the KTT Strawberry offers a more polished tactile experience that many users find comfortable for extended sessions, whether you're typing or gaming. Its low-pitched sound gives it a bassier, mellower character, which may be appealing if you prefer a richer auditory feedback during your interactions. Both switches have their strengths, so consider whether you prioritize a lighter, rapidly actuating feel or a more substantial, buttery smooth experience to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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