KTT Cream Yellow vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch that is best known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem provide resonant audio feedback, while its lengthened spring adds a unique bounciness to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. These switches are designed to provide a pronounced tactility without becoming overly tactile, striking the perfect balance. The Viola Tricolor also offers an invigorating sensation without overwhelming the user. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches share many similarities. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal from both switches due to their shared top housing material.

However, when it comes to the bottom housings, there is a slight difference between the Cream Yellow and the Viola Tricolor switches. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning it offers a comparable typing experience with a similar deep and full sound profile.

Overall, the key distinction between these switches lies in their bottom housings. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a consistent sound profile, the Cream Yellow's use of nylon for its bottom housing may slightly differentiate the typing experience compared to the Viola Tricolor. Nevertheless, users can still expect high-quality and satisfying sound profiles from both switches. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deep and full sound of the nylon bottom housing, these switches offer a range of options for keyboard enthusiasts to explore.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is considered medium in terms of resistance. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Viola Tricolor is unknown, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the Cream Yellow does have a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams in contrast to the Viola Tricolor's medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch as different preferences exist. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, like the Cream Yellow, because it allows for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. These lighter options are particularly suitable for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. Conversely, some users prefer a stronger push feel to have a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, a switch with heavier forces, such as the Viola Tricolor, would be more suitable.

While the actuation force of the Viola Tricolor remains unknown, it is safe to assume that it falls within a similar range to the Cream Yellow switch, given that they are both described as having a medium resistance. Additionally, although the Viola Tricolor has a slightly heavier bottom out force than the Cream Yellow, both switches still fall within the midpoint of the force spectrum, making them somewhat comparable in terms of overall resistance and typing experience.

Travel distance

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have different travel distances. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Cream Yellow's travel distance is on the shorter side, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a sense of depth and solidity when pressing down on the keys. This can be appealing to individuals who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound is achieved through its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, which provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the Cream Yellow switch offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel due to its lengthened spring, giving the keys a lively feel and providing rebound when pressed.

On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This switch strikes a perfect balance by offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. In terms of feel, the Viola Tricolor switch provides a pronounced tactility without crossing into the realm of being overly tactile. It is described as accented, meaning it offers a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The keys have a moderate to firm actuation force, providing a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an invigorating typing sensation.

Considering this information, the Cream Yellow and Viola Tricolor switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience with its sharp and snappy sound and lively feel. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to typing, accompanied by pronounced tactility and an invigorating feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, whether you choose the Cream Yellow or Viola Tricolor switch, you can expect a satisfying and immersive typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a clacky sound with a unique bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow is a great choice for you. Its resonant audio feedback and shortened bottom-out distance provide a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a pronounced tactility, the Viola Tricolor is the switch for you. It strikes a perfect balance, offering satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. Additionally, it is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile feel that enhances the typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more