Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor mechanical keyboard switches, one must consider the distinct characteristics of each switch. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch known for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile, along with a pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and comfort. While the Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished feel, the Viola Tricolor is more accented and invigorating. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing as well. However, the V3 Crystal Pro also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to its overall sound profile. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing experience on each switch.
One aspect where the V3 Crystal Pro and the Viola Tricolor differ is in the material of their bottom housing. While the V3 Crystal Pro's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing results in a more consistent sound profile, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate compared to the softer nylon may influence the overall feel of typing on each switch. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in defining the sound profile and typing experience. Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor showcase the impact of utilizing different materials for their housing components. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a clear and resonant sound, the Viola Tricolor's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how these materials interact with each other can provide valuable insight into the overall performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor's unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Viola Tricolor is the heavier option at 63.5 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of force, providing a good balance between typing comfort and feedback. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When compared, both switches offer the same experience in terms of keypress depth and actuation point. Users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches. This makes them suitable for individuals who prefer a consistent typing experience. Whether typing on the V3 Crystal Pro or the Viola Tricolor, users can enjoy a smooth keypress with a travel distance that remains unchanged.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and bright sound signature, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a bassy and low-pitched tone that adds character to the typing experience. The Crystal Pro switches are unique in their acoustic profile, standing out with a subtle squeak, while the Viola Tricolor switches offer a deeper richness resembling bass tones. Both switches have distinct sound qualities that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycap combination used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy and polished sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides an accented and invigorating feel, with a medium level of tactility that is satisfying without being overwhelming. The Crystal Pro switches give users a lively rebound when typing, while the Viola Tricolor switches offer a balance of tactile feedback and responsiveness for an engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Pro switches provide a bright and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, while the Viola Tricolor switches offer a bassy and tactily rich sound with an invigorating and accented feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches guarantee a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound profile with a silky smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a balanced amount of tactility that is not overwhelming, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, bottom out force, and the overall typing experience that best suits your individual typing style and preferences.
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