Neo Lavender HE vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Sunset Gleam offer unique experiences tailored 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 responsive performance. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is a linear switch that boasts a delightful blend of materials, ensuring a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack enhanced by HMX's renowned factory lube. While the Lavender HE might attract those seeking precision and minimal noise, the Sunset Gleam appeals to users who enjoy a tactile and enjoyable typing sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches differ significantly, particularly in their top housings. The Neo Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic results in more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which is typically stiffer and consequently produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic qualities of the switch, allowing RGB lighting to be more effectively displayed due to its translucency, creating a visually appealing illumination effect.
On the other hand, both the Lavender HE and Sunset Gleam utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material results in similar audio characteristics, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when keys are bottomed out. The use of nylon in the bottom housing serves to absorb sound, which diminishes any harshness that might result from key presses. Despite the variations in their top housing materials, the consistent presence of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches retain a similar auditory experience when the keys are fully depressed.
Overall, the contrasting materials in the top housings of the two switches create distinct sound experiences during typing, while the agreement on the bottom housing mitigates any potential discrepancies. Users can expect a more resonant and crystal-clear sound when using the Sunset Gleam due to its polycarbonate top, compared to the deeper, more rounded sound profile of the Lavender HE's nylon top. However, when bottoming out, both switches effectively produce a mellower sound owing to the nylon bottom housing. Consequently, while they offer different sound profiles when typing, the similarities in bottom housing material provide a degree of consistency in their overall auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we notice some interesting differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo Lavender HE has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the HMX Sunset Gleam requires a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Despite both switches being classified as light, the Lavender HE is the lighter option overall when considering both actuation and bottom out forces. For typists who prefer a less strenuous experience, the Neo Lavender HE would allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam, being marginally heavier in actuation force, offers a bit more resistance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Consequently, the Lavender HE offers a more substantial feel, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper key press, while the Sunset Gleam caters to gamers or users seeking quicker response times with its shorter travel distance. For individuals who prefer responsiveness and a lighter touch, the Sunset Gleam is the better option, whereas those favoring a more pronounced tactile experience should opt for the Neo Lavender HE.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 offers a clean, low sound profile that is specifically designed to work fluidly with Wooting keyboards, distinguishing it from many other magnetic switches on the market. This sound quality caters to users who prefer a more muted acoustic experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam delivers a more pronounced auditory feedback with a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, thanks in part to its high-quality materials and factory lubrication. Therefore, while the Lavender HE prioritizes a quieter, more understated sound, the Sunset Gleam leans into a more engaging auditory experience.
Regarding feel, the Neo Lavender HE is characterized by its smooth operation, which enhances typing and gaming experiences alike. The switch's responsive design aims to deliver a consistent tactile journey without any jarring interruptions. In comparison, the HMX Sunset Gleam, being a linear switch, also focuses on a smooth keystroke but combines it with the satisfying clack mentioned earlier, potentially adding a heightened level of engagement for the typist. While both switches aim for a pleasant tactile experience, the Sunset Gleam offers a more dynamic feel due to its distinctive sound profile.
In conclusion, selecting between the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Sunset Gleam ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in both sound and feel. If you desire a quieter, more subdued experience, the Lavender HE might suit you better. Conversely, if you enjoy a noticeable auditory feedback combined with smooth keystrokes, the Sunset Gleam could be the ideal choice. While each switch offers a unique character, both are designed to provide enjoyable typing and gaming experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a clean and low sound signature, the Lavender HE is a standout option, particularly if you appreciate the unique benefits of magnetic switches and are looking for a light typing experience, as its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a smooth touch that can enhance your gaming or typing performance. Conversely, if you desire a satisfying clack upon actuation, combined with a cushioned feel that enhances your overall typing experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam with its expertly blended materials and 48-gram bottom-out force could be more appealing. It also shines due to its factory lube, ensuring that each keystroke feels refined and enjoyable. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your specific needs—be it a quieter, more streamlined approach with the Lavender HE or the more tactile and noise-friendly vibe of the Sunset Gleam—so that you can create the optimal typing experience for yourself.
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