Neo Lavender HE vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer distinct tactile experiences and sound profiles. The Neo Lavender HE, known for its clean and low sound, utilizes innovative hall effect technology, making it a standout choice among magnetic switches, particularly for those using Wooting keyboards that leverage its unique capabilities. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch presents a contrasting experience with its snappy and perceptible tactile bump, delivering a satisfying feedback that users have come to appreciate, all while maintaining a neutral sound signature that pleases a broader audience. While the Lavender HE excels in creating a quiet environment suitable for shared spaces, the WS Light Tactile caters to those who enjoy a tactile sensation during typing without added noise. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches exhibit notable differences that significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Neo Lavender HE features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer texture compared to more rigid materials. This softness results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and provides a sharper, crisper sound profile. This inherent contradiction in material properties means that while the Lavender HE tends to produce a more muted, round sound, the WS Light Tactile offers a clear and resonant experience, particularly advantageous for users who seek the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a similarity between the two switches. Both the Neo Lavender HE and the WS Light Tactile utilize nylon for their bottom housings. As seen in the Lavender HE, nylon contributes to a deeper sound profile, predominantly affecting the bottom-out sound and feel during keystrokes. This shared material characteristic means that regardless of the differences in the top housings, both switches will have a consistent deep and full sound felt while typing, thanks to the soft properties inherent in the nylon material.
When considering the overall performance of both switch types, the differences in sound profile created by their respective top materials can lead to unique typing experiences. While the WS Light Tactile may offer sharper audio feedback from its polycarbonate top, the grounding effects of nylon in both switches’ bottoms ensure that users who type on either will experience a certain level of synergy in sound. Therefore, for users interested in a balanced auditory experience, combining the distinctive upper characteristics with the familiar depth of nylon below can yield satisfying results across both switches, allowing for a nuanced appreciation of their tactile and acoustic differences.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, both are categorized as light switches, but they do exhibit some differences in their force specifications. The Lavender HE has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the WS Light Tactile has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, also with a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Neo Lavender HE is the lighter of the two, making it more suitable for users who prioritize ease of typing over extended periods or those engaged in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile, with its higher actuation force, provides a marginally stronger push feel, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have the same bottom out force, ensuring that users will experience a similar resistance when fully depressing the key, but the actuation force difference may influence personal preference significantly.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, the Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Light Tactile offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that, for users who prefer quicker responses, the Lavender HE provides a more immediate feedback with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile, with its longer 4 mm travel, offers a more pronounced depth that might be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user’s preference for responsiveness versus a deeper actuation feeling: shorter travel distances like that of the Lavender HE are suited for quick actions, while longer travel distances like that of the WS Light Tactile cater to those who appreciate a more deliberate keystroke.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 characterized by a clean and low sound signature, setting it apart from traditional mechanical switches. This quality can contribute to a quieter typing experience, which may be preferable in environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, suggesting that it produces a balanced auditory experience that is neither too loud nor too soft. This neutral sound makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in a workplace setting. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, providing options for users depending on their sound preference.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE switches deliver a unique typing sensation, although specific details were not provided. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switches are designed with a stepped tactile feel, allowing users to experience two distinct stages during the keystroke. This means that while the tactile bump is noticeable, it is not overwhelmingly pronounced, making it a gentler option for users who might find hypertactile switches too jarring. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switches boast an easy-to-press design that minimizes the force required to activate, enhancing comfort during extended typing sessions. While the feel of the Lavender HE is less defined, the WS Light Tactile's comfortable and responsive nature makes it an appealing choice for many.
Overall, if you prioritize a low and clean sound, the Neo Lavender HE might be the better choice for a quieter typing experience, while the WS Light Tactile offers a balanced and versatile sound profile. In terms of tactile feedback and ease of use, the WS Light Tactile leverages a stepped design coupled with a gentle actuation force to provide a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for sound dynamics and tactile feedback, ensuring that either option can facilitate a satisfying typing experience depending on your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you prioritize a clean sound profile and are using a Wooting keyboard, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice. Its magnetic mechanism provides a smooth experience with minimal noise, making it ideal for quieter environments, such as shared workspaces or while gaming late at night. Additionally, the light actuation force of 50 grams contributes to effortless typing, which can be particularly beneficial if you anticipate long hours of typing without experiencing significant finger fatigue.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a tactile experience that offers a bit more feedback with its snappy, stepped bump while maintaining a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile may be right for you. This switch delivers a more pronounced tactile feel without being overly intrusive, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. Its easy-to-press design is perfect for those who spend extended periods typing, helping you remain comfortable while still receiving enjoyable tactile cues. In summary, consider the intended environment, your typing style, and whether you prefer a clean, seamless feedback or a more tactile experience when making your choice.
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