TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch are both exceptional options in the world of mechanical keyboards, each offering unique benefits to users. The Gold Red Pro is highly versatile, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that caters to a variety of preferences. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches stand out for their distinctive thuddy and punchy sound profile, along with a pronounced tactility that adds character to typing. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability for any setting, the Viola Tricolor strikes a balance between tactile feedback and overall typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor feature polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. As both switches use the same material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles when typing on them.
On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro and the Viola Tricolor differ in their bottom housing material. The Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Viola Tricolor also features a nylon bottom housing, allowing users to experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
When comparing the two switches, it is essential to consider how the different housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of typing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with distinct characteristics. While the top housing material affects the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor offer a blend of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials that cater to various preferences in sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. If both switches had the same actuation force, users can expect similar results in terms of key responsiveness. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter force allows for longer typing periods while a heavier force provides a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is crucial as it determines the amount of force and distance required to actuate the key. In this case, both switches provide a consistent travel distance, ensuring a uniform typing experience. Users of both switches can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness due to their equal travel distance. Ultimately, whether you choose the TTC Gold Red Pro or the Haimu Viola Tricolor, you can be assured of a consistent and reliable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a neutral and low-pitched sound profile, providing a harmonious and mellow typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch produces a bassy and low-pitched thuddy sound that adds character to keystrokes without being overwhelming. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can enhance typing enjoyment based on personal preferences, with the Gold Red Pro providing a more versatile and subdued sound compared to the Viola Tricolor's punchier and more pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal friction. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still present, offering a medium level of tactility without being scratchy. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, with the Gold Red Pro focusing on a smoother and more subtle touch while the Viola Tricolor emphasizes on moderate tactility and responsiveness.
Considering the available information, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility and neutral sound profile, providing a seamless typing experience suitable for various environments. In comparison, the Viola Tricolor stands out for its punchy and bassy sound along with a balanced level of tactility, offering a tactile typing sensation without being overpowering. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Gold Red Pro focusing on a smoother experience and the Viola Tricolor providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. By considering these differences, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a thuddy sound profile that adds character to your typing, the Viola Tricolor could be the ideal choice. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences, so choosing between the two will depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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