Neo Lavender HE vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Swift present two intriguing options, each catering to different user preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, appealing to those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. In contrast, the HMX Swift, categorized as clacky, feathery, and creamy, showcases a richer auditory profile with its deeper sound, courtesy of full nylon housings and a gentle 42g actuation force. The Swift's silky smoothness offers a delightful tactile sensation, making it a top choice for users who prioritize both sound and feel. While both switches offer distinct advantages—quieter performance versus a more vibrant auditory experience—they cater to different styles of use. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Nylon
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 extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Swift utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, highlighting a shared commitment to sound quality and user experience. As noted, nylon is a classic switch housing material that notoriously enriches the typing experience. Its relatively soft nature allows it to absorb sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile that is often described as duller and rounder compared to harder plastics. This similarity in materials suggests that users can expect a comparable auditory experience whether they choose the Lavender HE or the Swift, both offering consistent acoustic characteristics that enhance typing comfort.
While the use of nylon in both switches contributes to a unified sound profile, differences can arise in how the combination of the top and bottom housings affect the overall feel and acoustics. Since both the Lavender HE and HMX Swift feature identical nylon housings, the tactile feedback and sound produced when bottoming out a key will largely mirror one another, reinforcing the notion that the housing's material dictates the fundamental typing experience. The quality of the nylon and its specific molding might differ slightly between models, which could result in minor nuances in tactility or sound perception, yet overall, the shared material promotes consistent performance across both switches.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housings in the switching mechanism influences the overall typing experience. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing significantly impacts the sound and sensation when releasing a key. Since both the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Swift encapsulate this design principle with the same nylon material for their housings, users can anticipate a cohesive experience in both pressing and releasing keys. This harmonious alignment means that regardless of the choice between the two, users will enjoy a fulfilling and rich auditory experience, consistent across both models.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer similar lightweight characteristics, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The Lavender HE has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Swift has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams with an identical bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches require a similar effort to press down fully, the Swift requires a marginally greater force to trigger a keystroke. Consequently, the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter option, providing a softer feel that may appeal to those who prefer less resistance for extended use. Conversely, the HMX Swift, with its slightly higher actuation force, offers a bit more feedback, which may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a light touch with their bottom out forces, allowing for a similar typing experience at the bottom of the keystroke, while the slight difference in actuation forces may guide users towards their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we find that the Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Swift has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This makes the Lavender HE the shorter option and may provide a more responsive feel, which could be advantageous for gamers interested in quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Swift's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress experience, offering a greater sense of depth. Despite the minor difference, both switches still offer a relatively shallow travel compared to traditional options, benefiting users looking for faster response times while catering to different preferences in tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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 hall effect switch offers a clean and low sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. Contrasting this, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by a deeper sound profile attributed to its full nylon housing, which provides a clackier tone. Typically known for their brightness, the Swift’s sound can be perceived as heavier and richer, contributing to a distinctly different auditory experience. However, it's essential to remember that the ultimate sound A switch produces can also be influenced by the keyboard design and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE's tactile experience is generally less documented but expected to be smooth given its magnetic nature. In comparison, the HMX Swift switch shines with its light actuation force of 42g, making it easy to press. It delivers a buttery, creamy typing sensation, likely enhanced by either factory lubrication or the materials used in its construction. This switch also offers a bouncy feel that can make typing enjoyable and responsive, reducing finger fatigue, especially during prolonged use. The Swift’s features contribute to an overall lively and comfortable typing experience.
Combining all available information, the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Swift offer distinct advantages for typists and gamers alike. The Lavender HE provides a low and clean sound, ideal for quiet environments, whereas the Swift’s deeper and clackier signature appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. In terms of feel, the Swift stands out with its easy-to-press and creamy characteristics, making it a joy to use for long stretches. If you seek a smooth and quiet experience, the Lavender HE might be your best bet, while the Swift is perfect for those who crave a more vibrant auditory engagement and tactile feedback. Each switch has its unique charm, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Swift linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a clean and low sound while enjoying the benefits of magnetic switch technology, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice, especially if you're interested in using it with Wooting keyboards. Its lightweight actuation and smooth feel make it ideal for long typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback with a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift offers a clacky experience that can be quite satisfying. With its silky, easy-to-press feel and the added benefit of a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Swift appeals to those who prioritize comfort and responsiveness in their key presses. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you lean towards a quieter, more precise typing experience or a bouncier, more engaging sound signature during your time at the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
