Bsun Pine vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are two popular choices for those seeking tactile feedback. The BSUN Pine switches are known for their sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, making them ideal for users who prefer direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer a thuddy and punchy sound profile, striking a perfect balance between pronounced tactility and user comfort. While the Pine switch is categorized as 'Sharp' and 'Snappy', the Viola Tricolor is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched', highlighting their unique characteristics. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Pine features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor also has a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience when compared to the Pine.
The use of nylon for the bottom housing of both the Bsun Pine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches may impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite this difference, both switches offer a similar sound experience due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing. While both the Bsun Pine and the Haimu Viola Tricolor utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which enhances sound clarity, they diverge in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. Despite this distinction, both switches ultimately offer a comparable typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a deep and full sound profile. By understanding how each housing material affects the sound and feel of a switch, enthusiasts can make informed decisions when selecting their preferred mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Pine's 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Some users may prefer the Pine for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both are shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, indicating a preference for quicker response times. Gamers may favor the Pine switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing a faster keystroke experience. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Viola Tricolor switch with its longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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.
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 BSUN Pine switch is best known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, offering a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to each key press without being overly tactile. While the Pine switch offers a sharper and more distinct sound, the Viola Tricolor strike a balance between sharpness and richness, creating a unique auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps attached.
When it comes to feel, both the Pine and Viola Tricolor switches are described as accented and invigorating, providing a significant amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Pine switch, with its sharp tactile bump, offers a high feedback intensity that can be felt distinctly with each key press, creating a responsive and lively typing experience. Similarly, the Viola Tricolor switch delivers pronounced feedback and a snappy feel, allowing for a immersive typing sensation that keeps users engaged. The similarities in feel between these switches showcase their ability to provide a satisfying tactile experience while catering to different preferences.
In conclusion, while the BSUN Pine switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both excel in providing a tactile typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile and direct feedback with the Pine switch or a balanced and punchy sound with the Viola Tricolor switch, both options will undoubtedly enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel that suit your preferences. If you prioritize a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out with clear feedback, the Pine may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a balanced tactile sensation, the Viola Tricolor could be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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