TKC Kiwi vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Kiwi switches are known for their tactile feedback, providing users with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. Not only do these switches enhance the typing experience, but they also have a snappy sound profile that immerses users in their typing sessions. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to one's typing experience. These switches strike a perfect balance between tactile feedback and not being overly tactile, providing a satisfying level of feedback without overwhelming the user. The Viola Tricolor is categorized as having a sharp sensation and a low-pitched sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TKC Kiwi and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches provide distinct sound profiles. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing creates a very bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing. This is in contrast to the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting. While both materials offer resonant sound profiles, the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing leans towards a brighter tone, whereas the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate provides a crisper sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing shares similarities with its top housing, offering a bright sound signature when typing. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone compared to the harder UHWMPE material. Therefore, the bottom housings of these switches contribute to different sound qualities. While the Kiwi retains its bright and resonant clacks throughout, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller element to its sound profile.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switches, the top and bottom housings have varying impacts. Pressing down on a switch primarily showcases the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the tactile experience. On the other hand, the top housing's influence is most prominent when releasing a key, as it contributes to the sound produced. Therefore, the choice of top and bottom housing materials can greatly influence the overall typing experience of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the actuation force of the Viola Tricolor is currently unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force in the medium-heavy range, with the Kiwi at 67 grams and the Viola Tricolor at 63.5 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter feel may find the Kiwi more suitable for their needs. Its lighter actuation force allows for an extended typing duration, making it ideal for long workdays or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Viola Tricolor. While we do not have an exact actuation force measurement for the Viola Tricolor, its bottom out force of 63.5 grams suggests that it provides a similar level of resistance to the Kiwi.
In summary, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch. However, both switches provide a similarly medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Kiwi has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls under the traditional range, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so they may opt for the Viola Tricolor switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Kiwi switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a tactile feedback, but the difference in travel distance allows users to choose based on their personal preference for either a quicker and more responsive feel or a more substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched characteristic gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone, adding depth to the sound during key presses. The neutral sound profile means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and overall sound, making it suitable for various typing environments and users. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This results in a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Similar to the Kiwi, the Viola Tricolor has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for different purposes. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished. Stepped switches have two stages of tactility, providing a mild and comfortable typing experience with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. The accented characteristic refers to a medium level of tactility that is prominent but not overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating. Like the Kiwi, it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It also provides a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi and Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiwi provides a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. It delivers a medium to medium-strong bump with a smooth typing experience out of the box. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to the typing experience. It provides a pronounced tactility and an invigorating typing sensation. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and accentuated tactility, making them suitable for most users. However, it's important to consider personal preferences and the specific setup in which the switches will be used to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi would be a great choice for you. These switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, if you desire a switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience and a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor would be the ideal option. These switches strike a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your preferences for sound and feel, so choose the switch that best suits your typing needs and enhances your overall experience.
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