Neo Lavender HE vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to understand the distinct characteristics that make each option unique. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound profile and exceptional compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a quiet yet responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is renowned for its clacky and resonant notes, providing a tactile enjoyment with every keystroke. Moreover, the impeccable factory lube job ensures a silky smooth operation, appealing to those who prioritize a pleasing auditory and tactile feedback. Choosing between these two switches often comes down to personal preference—whether you prefer the subtlety and precision of the Lavender HE or the vibrant and lively character of the Strawberry Wine (V2). 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly affects the acoustic profiles of these switches. The Lavender HE's top housing is made of nylon, a well-established material known for producing a deeper, fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound waves, resulting in a more muted, rounder typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a top housing made from Ly, which offers a markedly different sound signature. This newer material enhances the resonance of key presses, producing sharper, more pronounced clacks. Thus, while both switches aim for satisfying auditory feedback during typing, their approach is distinct: the Lavender HE favors a more subdued, solid feedback through its nylon housing, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) thrives on a brighter, more vivid response.
Interestingly, both the Neo Lavender HE and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) share the same material—nylon—for their bottom housings. This commonality means that the foundational impact of bottoming out will be similar between these two switches. Nylon’s soft plastic texture provides a deeper, fuller sound profile for both models in their bottom housings, as it suppresses sound waves more effectively than harder materials. Therefore, despite the variation in top housing materials—which influences the type of sound produced when the key is released—both switches will still maintain that rich, rounded bass sound when pressed down. This shared nylon bottom housing contributes to a cohesive typing experience, ensuring that users will enjoy a familiar feel and auditory response at the key's bottom-out.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials and similar bottom housing materials results in varied user experiences that cater to different preferences. The Lavender HE's nylon top combines with its nylon bottom to create an overall sound profile that is deep and resonant, ideal for those who appreciate a solid and heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) unleashes the bright, resonant characteristics of its Ly top housing while still benefiting from the acoustically comforting properties of its nylon bottom. Consequently, users can tailor their typing experience according to their auditory and tactile preferences, whether they favor the softer, warmer tones of the Lavender HE or the bright, sharp feedback of the Strawberry Wine (V2).
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch present a compelling comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, positioning it in the medium-light range. This difference indicates that while both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, the Lavender HE is notably lighter and may be more comfortable for those needing to type for longer periods without fatigue. Ultimately, for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the better option due to its heavier forces, offering a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender HE features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lavender HE offers a more pronounced feel when pressed down, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2) can provide quicker actuation, making it a better choice for gamers seeking rapid response times. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference: if you prioritize responsiveness, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the better option; however, if you enjoy a more substantial keypress, the Lavender HE may be more suited to your taste.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a clean and low sound profile, making it noticeably quieter compared to other magnetic switches. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) showcases a much more resonant and clacky auditory experience. The sharp and snappy sounds it produces bring a bright and percussive quality to each keystroke, while its higher-pitched tones can also be characterized as immersive. When comparing these two switches, those who appreciate a subtle and minimal sound may prefer the Lavender HE, while enthusiasts looking for a lively and engaging typing experience will likely gravitate towards the Strawberry Wine (V2).
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE offers an experience that is clean and precise, though specific details about its tactile feedback were not provided. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) excels in providing a silky smooth typing experience due to its impeccable factory lube job. This enhances the overall fluidity of each keystroke, minimizing resistance and allowing for effortless typing. For users prioritizing a buttery feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) would undoubtedly be the more attractive option, while the Lavender HE may still cater to those who value clarity in key presses.
To summarize, the Neo Lavender HE and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches contrast significantly in both sound and feel. The Lavender HE is ideal for those who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing sound, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) caters to users who enjoy a clacky and resonant auditory experience paired with a silky-smooth feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you emphasize sound or tactile experience in your typing journey.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the auditory experience you desire. If you prioritize a lighter actuation with a clean and low sound profile, the Lavender HE is an excellent candidate, especially if you enjoy gaming or tasks that demand rapid key presses without overwhelming noise. This switch is especially compatible with Wooting keyboards, making it perfect for those who might want to explore analog input features. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly richer auditory feedback with delightful clacky and resonant notes, the Strawberry Wine (V2) will enhance your typing experience with its crisp sound and silky-smooth feel. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile auditory environment when typing or gaming, offering that gratifying acoustic feedback. Ultimately, consider whether your keyboard experience should be more subdued and light or resonate with a vibrant, immersive sound, and let that guide your decision for either of these delightful switches.
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