Zuoce Lavender vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and Everglide Oreo offer distinct experiences for users. The Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Oreo switch boasts a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, striking a balance between satisfying tactility and comfortable typing. While the Lavender is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Oreo is categorized as 'Accented', 'Chirpy', and 'Stepped'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the Everglide Oreo, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their materials. The Lavender's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Oreo's polycarbonate top and bottom housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound quality is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more resonant sound, compared to the softer POM material.
However, both the Lavender and Oreo share the benefit of using clear housing material for their top and bottom housings. The Oreo's polycarbonate housing, in particular, is noted for its translucency, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This aesthetic feature is an advantage for users looking to customize their keyboards with colorful lighting options. Despite the difference in sound profiles, both switches offer a visually appealing option for those interested in adding a touch of style to their setup.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is essential to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can affect not only the auditory experience but also the tactile feedback of the switch, showcasing the importance of selecting the right material based on individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force. The Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Oreo has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Lavender requires slightly more force to actuate but less force to bottom out compared to the Oreo. This means that typing on the Lavender may feel a bit lighter and easier, while typing on the Oreo may feel slightly more substantial and tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a favorable option for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Oreo provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the Oreo being the more traditional choice. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific feel desired by the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound upon each keystroke. This gives a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a mellow and chirpy sound profile, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. Depending on personal preference and setup, the sound produced by these switches can vary, but both offer distinct and pleasing auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a responsive and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the contrary, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch provides an accented and stepped tactile experience, with a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback. This allows for a satisfying typing experience without being too overwhelming in terms of tactile sensation.
Overall, both the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the Lavender switch leans towards a clacky sound profile and easy actuation, the Oreo switch provides a mellow and chirpy sound with a medium tactility level. Depending on individual preferences for typing experience, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable feel while typing. Experimenting with different setups and keycaps can further enhance the overall typing experience with these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you value a smooth and clacky typing experience with a light actuation force, the Lavender switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp tactile bump with a cushioned bottom out and a slightly chirpy sound, the Oreo switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so consider these factors when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Lavender and Oreo switches depends on what type of typing experience you personally enjoy the most.
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