TTC Flaming Pink vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, performance, and the kind of experience you’re looking for. On one side, the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch captivates users with its smooth, responsive feel and a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it ideal for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. Its clacky yet silky sound profile strikes a balance that doesn’t overwhelm, allowing for a subtle auditory experience. Conversely, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound that adds a distinct character to every keystroke. With a pronounced tactile feedback that stops just short of being overly assertive, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience—the accented low-pitched sound profile ensures that each keypress feels lively and engaging. Depending on your needs—whether you're seeking the smoothness and speed of a linear switch or the tactile joy of a pronounced feedback—both switches present compelling options. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it is evident that both switches utilize the same materials for their top housings—polycarbonate. This commonality contributes significantly to their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Both switches will exhibit a similar sound experience due to the translucency of polycarbonate, making it an excellent choice for showcasing RGB lighting. Therefore, from an auditory perspective, users can expect a consistent performance that enhances both the visual and acoustic appeal of these switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, creating a contrast in their overall sound profiles. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and leads to a deeper, fuller sound experience compared to its polycarbonate counterpart. This divergence in material properties means that while the top housing provides clarity and brilliance, the bottom housing introduces depth and warmth to the switch's feel and sound signature. When typing on either switch, the distinct characteristics of the nylon bottom housing will dominate the bottom-out sound, adding a roundness that complements the sharper qualities of the polycarbonate top.
In summary, the TTC Flaming Pink and Haimu Viola Tricolor offer a harmonious blend of materials, where both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing characteristics—resulting in crisper auditory feedback—while diverging with their nylon bottom housings to provide a fuller, more resonant typing experience. This thoughtful combination allows for a nuanced interaction, giving users an engaging and satisfying typing feel. By utilizing the same materials, both models deliver consistent sound clarity from the top while enhancing depth through the bottom, allowing for a balanced auditory experience no matter which switch is chosen.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Pink features a lightweight actuation force of 43 grams, while its bottom out force is 50 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance that would likely require more effort when typing. Consequently, the Flaming Pink is the lighter option, ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. Meanwhile, the Viola Tricolor, with its heavier bottom out force, would appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial key feel. Overall, if a user seeks a lighter, more comfortable experience, the TTC Flaming Pink is the better choice, whereas the Haimu Viola Tricolor caters to those who favor a firmer tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, the Flaming Pink measures at 3.6 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Flaming Pink offers a shorter travel distance, which may be more appealing to gamers or users who prioritize quicker response times. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's longer 3.8 mm travel distance could be more suited for those who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus the satisfying depth of a longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Pink switch delivers a bright, clacky tone that's sharp and percussive, providing a vibrant auditory feedback that can energize your typing experience. This sound profile makes it well-suited for both gaming and general use while ensuring a pleasant audible response without being overly loud. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch possesses a deep, bassy sound that lends a rich, thuddy character to each keypress. This low-pitched auditory quality creates a warm and immersive experience, distinguishing it from the higher notes of the Flaming Pink. The choice between these switches will largely depend on whether you prefer a crisp, lively click or a deeper, rounded sound.
In the realm of feel, the Flaming Pink offers a silky smooth experience that minimizes resistance with each keystroke. This makes for a seamless typing experience, ideal for those who prioritize fluidity in their mechanical keyboard action. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor provides an accented tactile feel, striking a balance that delivers satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. This means while you’ll notice distinct shifts as you engage the switches, they avoid crossing into a rough or overly tactile territory, making it a pleasing option for users seeking a moderate level of tactility.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flaming Pink and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you favor a smoother typing experience with a bright auditory output, the Flaming Pink will suit you well. However, if you lean towards a richer, bassy sound accompanied by a discernible tactile feedback, the Viola Tricolor will be your go-to option. Each brings its own character and strengths, ensuring that enthusiasts can find a switch that complements their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and use cases. If you prioritize a light pressing experience with a smooth and responsive feel, and if you engage in both gaming and everyday typing where speed and fluidity are key, the Flaming Pink switch is likely your best bet. Its clacky sound profile will add a lively auditory element to your typing experience, enhancing the sense of satisfaction with every keystroke. Conversely, if you prefer a bit more resistance and enjoy the tactile feedback that comes with typing, the Viola Tricolor switch may be more suitable. With a heavier actuation force and a richer, bassy sound, this switch caters to those who appreciate a pronounced tactile feel and a unique auditory signature. Its accented, medium tactile feedback empowers you to enjoy the rhythm of your typing without feeling overwhelmed by excessive tactile response. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the light and silky allure of the Flaming Pink or the thuddy satisfaction of the Viola Tricolor will shape your overall typing experience, so consider what matters most to you and choose accordingly.
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