KTT Matcha vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the KTT Matcha and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Matcha switch is well-known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, creating a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it offers a distinct clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. It strikes a perfect balance between pronounced tactility and not being overly tactile, providing a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. While these general pointers highlight the key features of each switch, 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, their bottom housing materials differ. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This consistency ensures that the sound profile remains consistent throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing.
When pressing down on either the Matcha or the Viola Tricolor, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent. The choice of bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. With the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing, users can expect a sharper and crisper bottom-out experience. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, providing a different tactile sensation.
While the top and bottom housings may have different materials in each switch, it is important to note that the impact of each housing material is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When releasing a key, the sound profile is influenced more by the top housing. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of both the Matcha and the Viola Tricolor will have a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, several differences become apparent. In terms of weight, the Matcha switch is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing feel, the Viola Tricolor switch provides a heavier actuation and bottom out force.
It is important to note that while the Matcha switch is lighter overall, the Viola Tricolor switch may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback due to its higher bottom out force. This can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced sensation when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ in terms of weight. The Matcha switch is lighter while the Viola Tricolor switch is medium-heavy. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences for typing experience, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier force.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches are within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Matcha being on the longer side and the Viola Tricolor being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Viola Tricolor switch with its shorter travel distance for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial and deeper keypress may opt for the Matcha switch's slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness or depth in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha offers a clean and crisp bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem, producing a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to the typing experience. Its bassy and low-pitched tone gives a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Both switches have distinct sound profiles that can enhance your typing experience, with the Matcha being clacky and the Viola Tricolor being bass-heavy.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha switch is known for its stepped, snappy, and accented tactile feel. It has two stages of tactility, offering a mild bump rather than an overwhelming one. The snappy and responsive nature of the Matcha is due to its longer or dual-staged springs, providing an alive typing experience. Additionally, the Matcha switch feels feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal exertion from your fingers, reducing finger fatigue. It offers a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel and producing a non-resonant sound suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch also provides an accented tactile feel, similar to the Matcha switch. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Described as invigorating, the Viola Tricolor switch offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
To conclude, the KTT Matcha and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches both have their unique subjective qualities. The Matcha switch provides a clacky sound, a stepped and snappy feel, and a feathery and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch offers a bassy sound, an accented and invigorating feel, and a satisfying tactile feedback. While the two switches differ in their sound and feel, they both deliver enjoyable typing experiences that can be tailored to individual preferences. Depending on personal preference and desired typing experience, either switch can provide similar results in terms of satisfaction and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're considering the KTT Matcha tactile switch, you can expect a light bottom-out force of 45 grams. This switch offers a comfortable and snappy tactility when typing, resulting in a pleasant typing experience. Additionally, the Matcha produces a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. On the other hand, if you're looking for the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, you'll experience a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams. The Viola Tricolor switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience. It offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing satisfying feedback without overwhelming the user. In terms of sound, the Matcha has a clacky sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor offers a bassy and low-pitched tone. In terms of feel, the Matcha is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. The Viola Tricolor is described as accented and invigorating. Consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision between these two switches.
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