Kailh Box Jade vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Box Jade switch is beloved for its medium-heavy typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on these switches a joy. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. It offers a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without becoming overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor strikes a balance by offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. While these general descriptions can give you a sense of which switch might suit your preferences, let's delve deeper to help you make the best switch choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches are quite similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly useful for RGB lighting enthusiasts. With the top housing being the same, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches differs as the Box Jade incorporates nylon while the Viola Tricolor utilizes the same material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Therefore, when typing on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch.
It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the characteristics and qualities of each housing material will be divided between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the user will feel the influence of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced. This distinction allows users to have a varied typing experience depending on their preferences and the desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Box Jade switch is 50 grams, which is unfortunately unavailable for the Viola Tricolor switch. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Jade switch requires 60 grams of force while the Viola Tricolor switch requires a slightly heavier 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions, making them ideal for work or extended gaming. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Box Jade switch provides a medium actuation force and bottom out force, while the Viola Tricolor switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force.
Although the actuation force for the Viola Tricolor switch is unknown, it is likely that the results obtained from typing with these switches would be quite similar. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, with the Viola Tricolor switch offering a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for a satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it can be observed that the Box Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Viola Tricolor offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. However, in recent times, there has been a growing preference for shorter travel distances among gamers, as it allows for faster response times. In this regard, the Box Jade would be a favorable choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Viola Tricolor more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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 Kailh Box Jade switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. The key presses with these switches result in a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can add character to your typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Kailh Box Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches are described as accented and invigorating. They fall into the category of tactile switches that provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The switches offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience by providing a satisfying tactile feedback without sacrificing comfort or ease of use.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound while providing a similar tactile experience. The Box Jade switches produce a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, whereas the Viola Tricolor switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound. However, both switches provide an accented and invigorating tactile feedback, striking a balance between tactility and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired sound and feel for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be your ideal choice. These switches offer crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, providing a satisfying and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a pronounced tactility that does not overwhelm, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches would be the perfect fit. These switches strike a perfect balance, delivering a sharp sensation without being overly tactile. Ultimately, your preference between the two will depend on whether you prefer the high-pitched and crunchy sound profile of the Box Jade or the bassy and low-pitched sound profile of the Viola Tricolor. Additionally, both switches offer an invigorating feel with prominent tactility, ensuring a responsive and enjoyable typing experience.
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