KTT MoonRosa vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch. The MoonRosa switch is praised for its smooth typing experience and neutral sound, making it a great choice for those who prefer a gentle keypress. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches offer a unique thuddy and punchy sound profile along with a satisfying tactile feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced typing sensation. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT MoonRosa and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The MoonRosa features a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The difference in sound between the two switches can be attributed to the characteristics of the housing materials, with POM providing a more subdued sound and polycarbonate offering a more vibrant and clear sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of these switches, another point of distinction can be found. The MoonRosa uses POM for its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder compared to the POM bottom housing of the MoonRosa. The difference in sound between the two switches demonstrates how the choice of bottom housing material can impact the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch.
While the housing materials of the KTT MoonRosa and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ in terms of top and bottom housings, both switches showcase how the choice of materials can influence sound characteristics. The POM top and bottom housings of the MoonRosa create a consistently deep and muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings of the Viola Tricolor result in a sharper, crisper sound with a duller bottom-out sound. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches, highlighting the importance of considering these factors when choosing a switch for your keyboard.
Weight
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the MoonRosa is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The MoonRosa is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push sensation while typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, enabling users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Gamers may prefer the MoonRosa for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press with a bit more depth. Overall, both switches offer different options for users based on their preference for travel distance, with the MoonRosa being slightly shorter and the Viola Tricolor being slightly longer.
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 KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a soothing typing experience with a bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch delivers a more dynamic sound with a touch of bassiness, bringing a punchy and characterful presence to your typing. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the choice between a smoother low-pitched sound and a punchier bassy tone would ultimately depend on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the MoonRosa linear switch is described as providing a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that is comfortable for most users. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is noted for its accented and invigorating tactile response, delivering a more pronounced feedback and a snappy feel that adds immersion to typing sessions. While the MoonRosa focuses on a gentle and effortless typing experience, the Viola Tricolor offers a more engaging and tactile sensation that can cater to users who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MoonRosa provides a smoother and milder typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor delivers a punchier and more tactile response with a bassy tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, it's important to note that both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, pronounced tactility, and a thuddy, punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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