SP-Star Meteor White vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White 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 SP-Star Meteor White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor offer distinct benefits. The Meteor White is a linear switch that is known for its gentle and subdued nature. With an easy push and a soft pitter-patter sound profile, this switch provides a smooth and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. It offers a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, striking a perfect balance between sharp feedback and user comfort. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches differ significantly. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to the softer nature of nylon, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Meteor White and the Viola Tricolor employ nylon as the material of choice. As with the nylon top housing, the nylon bottom housing also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In this aspect, the two switches share a similarity.
The impact of these housing materials is felt differently depending on where you press the key. When you press down on a switch, you will experience the qualities of the bottom housing, which has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. However, upon releasing the key, the impact of the top housing becomes more evident, affecting the sound produced. Therefore, while the Meteor White and Viola Tricolor share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, the choice of different materials for the top housing brings forth distinct sound characteristics when typing on these switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. However, the exact actuation force for both switches is unknown. The Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. While the actuation force remains a mystery, it is safe to assume that both switches would require a similar amount of force to trigger a keystroke.
Considering the weight of the switches, the lighter option is often preferred by those who engage in extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. This allows for comfortable usage over extended periods without fatigue. The Meteor White, being lighter in its bottom out force, would be more suitable for individuals seeking a lighter typing experience.
On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel, which provides a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may find the Viola Tricolor more appealing, as its heavier bottom out force would offer a greater resistance when pressing the keys.
In summary, while the actuation force of the SP-Star Meteor White and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches is unknown, it can be assumed that they both provide a similar triggering experience. However, the Meteor White is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Viola Tricolor offers a heavier bottom out force for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively similar travel distances, with the Viola Tricolor having a slightly shorter distance. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional option, while 3.8mm is slightly shallower. In general, shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. Those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Meteor White with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness or a deeper key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile with a thocky characteristic. When pressed and released, these switches produce a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" sound, giving a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a bassy sound profile that is low-pitched. The sound produced is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that enhance the typing experience, with the Meteor White having a more subdued and gentle sound, while the Viola Tricolor offers a touch of character with its thuddy and punchy sound.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. These switches provide a gentle typing experience without being too pronounced in any particular aspect. They fall in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel, making them approachable for most users. With their smooth and refined finish, these switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides an accented and invigorating feel. These switches offer a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. They have a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
In summary, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a soft and subdued sound profile with a mild and polished feel. It is suitable for most intents and purposes, providing a comfortable typing experience without being too pronounced in any aspect. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a bassy and low-pitched characteristic. Its pronounced tactility and invigorating feel add a touch of character to the typing experience. Depending on personal preference, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a soft and gentle typing experience with a pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White switch would be the ideal choice for you. It offers a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, making it easy to push. Furthermore, it is described as having a neutral or thocky sound profile, which is suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with pronounced tactility and a thuddy, punchy sound profile, the Viola Tricolor switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a medium-heavy typing experience. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance between tactile feedback and not being overly tactile. It is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Consider whether you prefer a soft and gentle linear switch or a switch with pronounced tactility and a punchy sound profile. Both the Meteor White and Viola Tricolor switches have their unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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