Neo Lavender HE vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the differences between options like the Neo Lavender HE and the Wuque Studio WS Brown is essential for enhancing your typing experience. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is recognized for its clean, low sound profile and is particularly compatible with Wooting keyboards, offering a unique magnetic switching mechanism that stands out in the market. In contrast, the WS Brown switch is a tactile option that successfully marries tradition and innovation, with a medium-light actuation force that supplies both responsiveness and comfort, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions. The WS Brown provides a familiar auditory feedback that enthusiasts appreciate, thanks to its nylon housing and POM stem blend. Each switch brings its distinct advantages, with the Lavender HE tailored for quiet environments and cutting-edge technology, while the WS Brown caters to those who value tactile feedback and a satisfying sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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-stage spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and Wuque Studio WS Brown keyboards share a significant similarity in their housing materials, both utilizing nylon for the top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its sound absorption properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In both switches, this material choice leads to a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound, making them appealing to users who prefer a more muted keystroke. As a result, typing on either the Lavender HE or the WS Brown would elicit a comparable auditory experience, since they harness the qualities of nylon to minimize the sharpness often associated with harder plastics.
While both switches feature an identical construction using nylon, the specific interaction between the top and bottom housings can influence the overall feel and sound during use. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and resistance felt during keypresses, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound generated when a key is released. Therefore, even though both models are constructed of the same material, the exact experience may differ slightly based on how each housing has been tuned in relation to the switch design. Nonetheless, users can expect a generally harmonious typing feel across both switches because of the fundamental properties of nylon that dominate their sound and tactile feedback.
In summary, the similarity in housing materials—specifically the use of nylon for both the Neo Lavender HE and the Wuque Studio WS Brown—ensures that users will experience a comparable sound profile characterized by a deeper, richer tone. The key difference lies in the nuanced feel and sound effects during keypresses, derived from the interplay between the nylon top and bottom housings. Both switches promise a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, rooted in the well-regarded properties of nylon as a classic switch housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Lavender HE boasts a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a great option for those who favor longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, while the WS Brown's actuation force remains unspecified, it has a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This indicates that the WS Brown may provide a heavier feel during bottoming out, which can appeal to users preferring a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter switch due to its clearly defined actuation force, whereas the WS Brown may still be considered heavier owing to its unspecified actuation force coupled with a higher bottom out force. For those looking to type comfortably for extended periods, the Lavender HE is the more suitable choice, while the WS Brown may be ideal for users seeking a sturdier feel.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch both exhibit a travel distance of 3.8 mm, meaning they provide identical feedback when pressed down on a key. This equal travel distance indicates that users can expect a similar experience in terms of key press depth, ensuring that both switches feel consistent and responsive under the same conditions. Consequently, whether utilizing the Lavender HE or the WS Brown, users can anticipate comparable results in their typing experience, as both switches require the same amount of travel to register a key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50.
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 characteristics of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch are marked by a clean, low pitch, providing a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from traditional mechanical switches. This minimalist sound profile makes it an excellent choice for those looking to minimize noise while still enjoying the satisfaction of a mechanical switch. In contrast, the WS Brown switch delivers a more familiar auditory experience that is both pleasant and satisfying to enthusiasts. Its sound is a result of the nylon housing and POM stem working in harmony, creating a stable acoustical profile that many find reminiscent of classic mechanical switches.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE excels with its unique hall effect technology, which allows for a smooth and responsive typing experience. This technology helps eliminate some of the friction found in traditional switches, promoting a more effortless stroke. Conversely, the WS Brown tactile switch offers a medium-light actuation force that perfectly balances responsiveness and comfort. This combination allows for a pleasurable typing experience, especially during lengthy sessions, making it a popular choice among those who appreciate tactile feedback without straining their fingers.
Overall, while the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch presents a distinct sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the WS Brown tactile switch provides a familiar auditory and tactile sensation that blends comfort with an enjoyable, responsive feel. Both switches cater to specific preferences—the Lavender HE for those seeking minimal noise and a smooth actuation, and the WS Brown for users looking for a balance of tactile feedback and auditory familiarity. Depending on individual priorities, both switches can yield satisfying results, making them commendable options in the mechanical keyboard space.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter touch with a clean, low sound and are looking for a switch that excels in responsive typing, particularly in a gaming context on a Wooting keyboard, the Lavender HE would be an ideal choice for you. Its innovative hall effect mechanism offers a unique experience that can shine in both gaming and typing, providing a responsive feel without a pronounced auditory distraction. On the other hand, if you value a slightly firmer actuation point that remains comfortable during longer typing sessions, while still enjoying that familiar tactile feedback and auditory experience, then the WS Brown switch would suit you well. Its harmonious blend of innovation and traditional tactile feedback makes it particularly appealing for those who engage in extensive writing or work tasks, where comfort and a delightful auditory experience can enhance your productivity. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific usage scenarios, whether that be for casual gaming, extensive typing, or a combination of both.
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