Neo Lavender HE vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the options can be as diverse as the users themselves. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean, low sound profile and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a unique all-POM construction that delivers a deep, thocky sound signature along with a buttery-smooth keystroke, catering to those who appreciate a more tactile and audible feedback during their typing sessions. While the Lavender HE emphasizes a subtle auditory experience, the WS POM+ is all about delivering that satisfying sensation with each keystroke. 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
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and Wuque Studio WS POM+ utilize different housing materials—nylon and POM, respectively—each affecting their sound and feel in unique ways. The Lavender HE's nylon housings, both top and bottom, contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon’s softer material absorbs sound effectively. This absorption results in a distinctly duller and rounder acoustic profile that many typists find enjoyable. In contrast, the WS POM+ features POM housing that creates a unique sound experience characterized by a deeper yet relatively muted quality. Here, the POM material enhances the overall auditory enjoyment through its distinct tonal properties, showcasing the diversity in switch design and sound characteristics.
While both housings offer a similarly rich sound profile, the materials used yield different tactile experiences. The Lavender HE's nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its plushness, allowing for a softer key press that can heighten the satisfaction of keystrokes. In comparison, the POM material in the WS POM+ adds a unique texture to the keypress without sacrificing the pronounced depth of sound. This creates an interesting dynamic between the two switches, where the softer nylon of the Lavender HE may feel more forgiving under the fingers, while the POM-influenced WS POM+ could provide a bit more responsiveness due to its slightly denser feel.
Finally, the interaction between the top and bottom housings further distinguishes the user experience for both options. In the Lavender HE, both top and bottom are made of nylon, ensuring a consistent sound and feel throughout the keypress: the housing dampens sound upon bottoming out and creates a pleasant experience when releasing the key. Conversely, the WS POM+ features a combination of a POM top and bottom housing, which may lead to a split in sound definition—where the top housing affects the sound upon release, and the bottom can encapsulate a more muted bottom-out feel. Thus, while both the Neo Lavender HE and Wuque Studio WS POM+ provide satisfying typing experiences, their differing material compositions contribute to varied performance attributes that cater to user preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their specifications and intended user experience. The Lavender HE has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial tactile feedback that may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer push feel in their typing experience. Consequently, the Lavender HE is better suited for those seeking a more effortless keypress, while the WS POM+ caters to users who appreciate a bit more resistance. Overall, users can expect a different tactile experience due to the variance in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Lavender HE the longer option, providing a more pronounced keypress experience. For those who appreciate a deeper feel and a more tactile connection with the switch, the Lavender HE may be the better choice. On the other hand, the WS POM+ offers a shorter travel distance, which can lead to quicker response times, making it an appealing option for gamers seeking improved performance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences: the Lavender HE for those who cherish a fuller keypress and the WS POM+ for those who favor speed and agility.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 known for its clean and low sound profile, standing out with a more subtle auditory presence compared to many traditional switches. Its sound is less likely to overpower a quiet environment, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound signature, which delivers a satisfying and rich auditory feedback characterized by a bass-heavy tone. The WS POM+ produces a more pronounced and engaging sound, often described as a mellow "thud" with a subdued character, making it perfect for those who appreciate deeper acoustic experiences while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE’s tactile feedback is not explicitly mentioned, leaving its experience somewhat of a mystery. In contrast, the WS POM+ is praised for its buttery and silky keystrokes, offering an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing sensation. The smoothness associated with this switch minimizes any sense of resistance during key presses, providing a seamless experience that many typists find enjoyable. This tactile clarity and effortless action make the WS POM+ particularly rewarding for extended typing sessions, allowing for a comfortable and engaging experience.
In conclusion, while the Neo Lavender HE offers a clean, low sound perfect for quieter environments, the WS POM+ provides a deep and satisfying acoustic experience, making it stand out for those who prefer a more pronounced thock. In terms of feel, the WS POM+ excels with its buttery and silky keystroke, while the feel of the Lavender HE remains less defined. Given these variations in sound and tactile quality, a user may choose based on preference for either subtlety or pronounced feedback, with each offering unique qualities suited to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your typing preferences and intended use. If you value a lighter actuation with minimal effort and enjoy a clean, low sound signature that enhances your overall typing experience, the Lavender HE is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force allows for quick and responsive keystrokes, making it particularly suited for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. Conversely, if you're seeking a more robust tactile experience with a satisfying thock sound, the WS POM+ would be more appropriate. With its medium-light 55-gram resistance, this switch provides that deep, rich auditory feedback and a buttery smooth feel, ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile and nuanced typing experience. Ultimately, your specific needs—be it for gaming precision or satisfying typing acoustics—should guide your decision between these two notable switches.
Mentioned in this article
