KTT Miaowu vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Miaowu linear switch to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers a unique typing experience catered to different preferences. The Miaowu stand out for its smooth keystroke action and enhanced stem stability, thanks to its utilization of POK in its stem, distinguishing it from switches with conventional POM stems. Categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu provides a satisfying typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is designed to offer a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to each keystroke. It strikes the perfect balance between tactile feedback and smooth actuation, categorized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', 'Invigorating', and 'Low-pitched'. While these general pointers provide insight into the differences between linear and tactile switches, diving deeper into their nuances will ultimately help you decide on the best switch for your typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 KTT Miaowu and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ in terms of their top housings, as they both utilize polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be effectively utilized, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. In this aspect, both switches offer a similar sound profile and visual experience, making them ideal choices for users who prioritize these qualities in their mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Miaowu and the Viola Tricolor are made of nylon, providing a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches offers a distinct tactile and auditory feedback that complements the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, while the top housings of the KTT Miaowu and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similar qualities due to their use of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differentiate the switches in terms of sound and feel during typing. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience. Users who prefer a sharper, crisper sound may lean towards the Miaowu, while those who enjoy a duller, rounder sound may prefer the Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ significantly. The Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor's unknown actuation force, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Similarly, the Miaowu has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor's heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a softer typing experience. While both switches offer unique characteristics, the Miaowu is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Viola Tricolor is better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Miaowu being the shorter of the two. Generally, shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances are favored by those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. In this case, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Miaowu would be the better choice, while the Viola Tricolor would be suited for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Miaowu switch offers a clacky and sharp sound profile, characterized by crispness and percussiveness. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, adding a deep and rich tone to your typing experience. While the Miaowu delivers a more traditional and snappy sound, the Viola Tricolor offers a unique and character-filled auditory feedback that might cater to those who prefer a deeper tone during their typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Miaowu switch provides a bouncy and spring-like sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Contrastingly, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch offers an accented and invigorating tactile experience, with a medium amount of tactility that is not overpowering but still noticeable. The Viola Tricolor switch aims to strike a balance between providing tactile feedback and maintaining a smooth typing experience, catering to users who enjoy a tactile but not overwhelming sensation while typing.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch excels in delivering a clacky sound and bouncy feel, while the Viola Tricolor switch stands out with its bassy sound profile and accented, invigorating tactile feedback. Both switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prefer a sharper, more traditional typing experience or a deeper, more tactile one. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience with their individual characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Miaowu linear switch or the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for key sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a light bottom-out force, smooth keystroke action, and a clacky sound profile, the Miaowu may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, pronounced tactility, and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, the Viola Tricolor could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
Mentioned in this article
