Neo Lavender HE vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between standout options like the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Vintage Citrus. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is well-regarded for its clean, low sound profile and seamless compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter yet responsive experience. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus is designed specifically for gamers, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm for rapid-fire inputs and an invigoratingly clacky sound that adds character to every keystroke. While the Lavender HE appeals to users seeking a smooth, muted typing experience, the Vintage Citrus gives gamers an edge with its snappy responsiveness and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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 single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and HMX Vintage Citrus switches share notable similarities in their housing materials, both featuring nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This common choice of nylon as a housing material contributes to the switches' sound profiles, delivering a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Given that nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, it inherently absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a similar deep and round sound when the keys are struck, offering users a satisfying typing experience characterized by a muted acoustic feedback.
In terms of construction, the identical use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings means that the acoustic properties of both switches are shaped primarily by the same material. This consistency ensures that when a user types on either switch, they can expect a similar sound quality, whether they are bottoming out or releasing the key. In particular, the softer nature of nylon reduces the impact of sound that typically occurs with harder plastic switches, promoting a more comfortable and quieter typing environment across both the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Vintage Citrus.
While both switches utilize the same nylon material, it's important to note that the individual characteristics of typing experience may still differ slightly based on their specific design elements or configurations. For instance, although both provide a rounded sound profile during typing, factors such as the switch's actuation force, travel distance, and overall design nuances can create subtle variations in feel and acoustics between them. However, given that they both leverage a nylon construction, users will ultimately attain a similar sound experience, characterized by the signature deeper and fuller sound that the material encourages upon each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Neo Lavender HE has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, potentially beneficial for extended use during work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus features a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light option. This difference means that users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing might favor the Vintage Citrus switch. Both switches exhibit a slight variance in bottom out force, with the Lavender HE being the lighter option overall, ensuring a softer touch for those who prioritize ease of use.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Lavender HE the longer option, providing a more pronounced tactile sensation when pressed, which some users may find more satisfying. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus, with its 3 mm travel distance, offers a quicker actuation, appealing particularly to gamers who seek faster response times. While both switches cater to different preferences, those who enjoy a more robust keypress will likely favor the Lavender HE, whereas users who prefer swift actions may opt for the Vintage Citrus. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on whether the user values depth or responsiveness in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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
The sound profile of the Neo Lavender HE switch is characterized by a clean, low sound, which distinguishes it from many traditional mechanical switches, providing a pleasant auditory experience without unnecessary distractions. This contrasts sharply with the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, known for its bright and clacky sound. The clackiness of the Vintage Citrus adds a distinctly sharp and snappy acoustic signature, making it well-suited for gamers who enjoy an auditory confirmation of their key presses. Ultimately, if you favor a discreet typing sound, the Lavender HE would be your go-to, while the Vintage Citrus caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Neo Lavender HE doesn’t have specific descriptors available, but one can assume it's designed to offer a smooth typing experience in line with its clean sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is engineered for an invigorating experience, featuring a snappy and responsive actuation due to its low actuation force and potentially dual-staged springs. This results in a typing sensation that feels lively and engaging, perfect for rapid actions. For those who are undecided or looking for both types of history, the feedback from the Vintage Citrus could be more immediate and immersive compared to the Lavender HE.
In conclusion, the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Vintage Citrus switches present two distinct approaches to keyboard feel and sound. The Lavender HE’s low, clean sound is great for minimalistic environments, while the Vintage Citrus’ clacky, vibrant sound adds excitement particularly suited for gaming. In terms of feel, the invigorating responsiveness of the Citrus switch creates a dynamic typing experience, contrasting with the more subtle nature suggested by the Lavender HE’s design. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preferences related to sound and tactile feedback; whichever you choose, you will enjoy deeply engaging experiences tailored to your keyboard usage.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it’s essential to reflect on your specific usage needs and preferences. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience paired with a clean, low sound, the Neo Lavender HE is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate smooth and seamless keystrokes often sought in general typing or programming tasks. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards also allows for some advanced functionalities, making it versatile for various applications beyond gaming. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for speed and responsiveness, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch shines with its quick actuation of just 1mm and a satisfying clacky sound profile. This switch delivers a more immersive and lively experience due to its snappy feedback and slightly firmer actuation force, which many gamers find engaging during fast-paced gameplay. Thus, your choice ultimately hinges on whether you value a quieter, smoother feel for versatile applications or a more pronounced, responsive switch that enhances your gaming performance.
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