Keygeek Keylin vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable options are the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch. The Keygeek Keylin is celebrated for its smooth action and rich acoustics, thanks to its innovative molds, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a seamless and quiet typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor offers a pronounced tactile feedback, delivering a satisfying and punchy sound that enhances the overall engagement of each keystroke. This switch is ideal for users seeking a tactile response without overwhelming the senses. While the Keylin caters to users who value smoothness and serenity in their typing, the Viola Tricolor appeals to those who enjoy a more dynamic feel with auditory feedback. 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both utilize varied housing materials for their respective switch designs, showcasing the distinct acoustic characteristics that each material brings to the typing experience. The Keylin features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s relatively softer properties, which absorb sound waves rather than reflect them. This results in a muted and rounded audio feedback when typing. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor employs a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for greater resonance, ultimately providing a clearer auditory experience. As such, the choice of top housing materials in these two switches influences the immediate sound and tactile feedback produced during usage.
Both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, contributing similarly to sound and feel. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it dampens vibrations, ensuring a deeper and fuller sound upon key presses regardless of the switch's top housing material. This shared characteristic means that while the top housing of each switch may produce different sound profiles, the bottom housing's impact will be consistent across both switches. Consequently, when engaging with these switches, users will experience a harmonious blend of sounds shaped by the material choices—deeper tones upon bottoming out due to the nylon in both models.
Ultimately, the differences between the Keylin and Viola Tricolor highlight the importance of housing material in keyboard design. The contrasting top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate suggest a divergence in typist preference, where some may prioritize a rounder sound with the Keylin, while others may opt for the sharper clarity of the Viola Tricolor. However, the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent foundation for sound dampening. Therefore, although the switches may produce varied audio and tactile experiences when typing, both employ complementary materials to create a holistic and balanced typing experience that caters to diverse user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch has a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions due to its lower resistance. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor switch has an unspecified actuation force but features a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience. This difference in forces suggests that users who favor a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use would prefer the Keylin, while those who appreciate a heavier feel may lean towards the Viola Tricolor. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences, with the Keylin being the lighter option and the Viola Tricolor being heavier in terms of bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we find measurable differences that may cater to varying user preferences. The Keylin features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that for users who prefer a more responsive feel, the Keylin switch may be the better choice, as its shorter travel distance allows for quicker key activation—ideal for gaming and fast-paced tasks. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial and deeper keypress may gravitate towards the Viola Tricolor, which offers a bit more travel for a richer tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice hinges on personal preference for either rapid response or a more pronounced key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
The sound produced by the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is characterized by rich acoustics that enhance the overall typing experience. While specific descriptors for the Keylin's sound profile aren't provided, its reputation suggests a smoother, less intrusive audio signature typical of linear switches. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch delivers a unique auditory experience with a thuddy and punchy sound profile. This switch leans toward a bassy and low-pitched tone, which adds depth and character while typing. The sound quality of both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, but the inherent acoustic properties of each switch clearly differ.
When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness, providing an unparalleled experience during typing. Although no further specifics are mentioned, linear switches generally emphasize an uninterrupted keystroke without tactile bumps, making them fluid and consistent. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor tactile switch is designed to give a more pronounced tactile feedback without being overly tactile. Its medium tactile response is complemented by an invigorating actuation force, yielding a snappy and reactive feel. This makes typing on the Viola Tricolor a more interactive experience, offering users both satisfaction and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences, primarily differentiated by their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Keylin stands out for its smoothness and rich acoustics, ideal for users who prefer a more traditional linear experience, while the Viola Tricolor adds a layer of character with its thudding sound and pronounced tactility. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for either a seamless keystroke or a tactile sensation that keeps your typing engaging.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth, linear action that delivers a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics, the Keylin might be the perfect fit for you. This switch excels in providing a satisfying and fluid keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy fast-paced typing or gaming without the interruption of tactile resistance. On the other hand, if you're someone who appreciates a more tactile and responsive feel, the Viola Tricolor would be a better option. With its medium-heavy actuation force and a pronounced "thuddy" feel, it offers a gratifying auditory and tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience without being overly aggressive. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy the sensation of physical feedback, perhaps favoring a more deliberate typing style. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you want to interact with your keyboard—whether it's for prolonged typing sessions or rapid gaming action, both switches present unique benefits tailored to different user needs.
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