Neo Lavender HE vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Weightlessness offers distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate a quieter typing experience while benefiting from the unique characteristics of magnetic switching technology. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switches provide a tactile feel that ranges from subtle to moderate, paired with a balanced sound profile that nicely complements their tactile feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced actuation without overwhelming noise. Both switches have their merits, catering to varying typing preferences, whether you seek silence or tactility in your typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Neo Lavender HE and the Gateron Weightlessness switches are identical in their composition, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This similarity means that users can expect to experience a comparable sound profile when typing on these switches. The nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound that is more muted compared to harder plastics. The softness of the nylon allows it to absorb vibrations more effectively, resulting in a sound that is both duller and rounder. Consequently, users of both switches can anticipate a satisfying auditory experience while typing, marked by this deep and resonant sound signature.
Though the switch housings of the Neo Lavender HE and Gateron Weightlessness provide the same material benefits, one must also consider their structural design and how it influences the overall typing experience. Although both switches share nylon as their material, factors such as stem design, spring tension, and actuation force can affect the feel and sound. In particular, the bottom housing is significant in shaping the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing influences the sound and feel when releasing a key. Therefore, despite the identical material properties, the distinct engineering approaches taken by each product could yield subtle differences in user experience.
In utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings, both the Neo Lavender HE and Gateron Weightlessness switches present a unified experience in terms of sound profile. However, the nuanced differences that arise from their unique designs may alter the tactile feedback and acoustic response when typing. If one switch were to have a harder material for either the top or bottom housing, it would generate a sharper sound and a different tactile feel. Nonetheless, since both switches maintain the same material characteristics, users can anticipate relatively similar typing results, enjoying the plush and full sound that nylon inherently offers across the board.
Weight
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch present a contrast in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, which is considered light and suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Weightlessness switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel in their typing experience. Both switches lack a specified bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch; however, the Lavender HE has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating it requires a bit more pressure to press the key all the way down. Consequently, if you favor lighter switches for comfort during extended use, the Neo Lavender HE would be the better option. In contrast, for users who appreciate a heavier key feel, the Gateron Weightlessness is the ideal choice, despite lacking a definitive bottom out force measurement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the Lavender HE offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Weightlessness has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you are looking for a deeper feel and more resistance during key presses, the Lavender HE switch may be the better choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a quicker response and less travel distance—an attractive feature for gamers—the Gateron Weightlessness could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference; those who enjoy deeper key presses would likely favor the Lavender HE, while those seeking a more responsive, rapid-fire experience would lean towards the Weightlessness switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 is well-regarded for its clean and low sound profile, making it an attractive option for users who prefer quieter keystrokes. This characteristic allows it to stand out among other magnetic switches, particularly in environments where minimal noise is appreciated. Meanwhile, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch delivers a sound that is balanced and complements its tactile nature, providing a subtle to moderate feedback without being overly disruptive. Both switches, however, can exhibit auditory variations depending on the keyboard build and keycap selection, so users may find similarities in sound depending on their individual setups.
When it comes to feel, the Lavender HE offers a distinctly smooth keystroke, likely aimed at providing a streamlined typing experience that is both responsive and effortless. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch presents a tactile feedback that is subtle to moderate, which strikes a balance between providing a satisfying feel without overwhelming the user. While the Neo Lavender HE might cater to those who prefer a more linear and fluid typing experience, the Weightlessness could appeal to individuals who enjoy a gentle tactile bump, offering different experiences for users based on their personal preferences.
Considering both sound and feel, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch present unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences. The Lavender HE excels in delivering a clean and low sound, which might be preferable for those in quieter environments, while also providing a smooth feel. On the other hand, the Weightlessness switches offer a well-balanced sound profile alongside a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a noticeable yet moderate tactile response. Each switch has its own strengths, and the final choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one is seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a lighter, more responsive switch with a clean, low sound, the Neo Lavender HE is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy the compatibility with Wooting keyboards that utilize analog input for gaming and typing. Its unique magnetic mechanism sets it apart, providing a smooth experience with less friction, perfect for those who want a sensitive touch while maintaining a quieter environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a subtle yet engaging feel, the Gateron Weightlessness could be your go-to option. Its balanced sound profile and moderate tactile response make it suitable for both typing and gaming, providing a satisfying sensation without excessive noise. Overall, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a lighter, quieter experience with the Lavender HE or a tactile, balanced feel with the Weightlessness.
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