Cherry MX Black vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black 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, two popular options stand out for their unique characteristics: the Cherry MX Black and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The MX Black, a linear switch, is best known for its classic textured smoothness, which is further enhanced by Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling. Typing on these switches creates a familiar deep sound profile that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to your typing experience. These switches offer a pronounced tactility without becoming overly tactile, striking a perfect balance between a satisfying feedback and not overwhelming the user. It is clear that both switches have their unique merits, providing different typing experiences. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and the Haimu Viola Tricolor have different housing materials for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs sound. In comparison, the Viola Tricolor uses a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate is also beneficial for RGB lighting effects. Despite the differences, both switches have a clear housing that enhances their aesthetic appeal.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the MX Black and the Viola Tricolor utilize nylon for this component. The nylon material in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the effect of the nylon top housing. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Therefore, the sound produced when pressing down on these switches will have similar qualities due to the shared use of nylon in their bottom housings.
In terms of functionality, the different housing materials in the MX Black and the Viola Tricolor distribute their qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. However, the overall sound profiles of the switches will still differ due to the contrasting characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate.
In summary, the Cherry MX Black and the Haimu Viola Tricolor have varying housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The MX Black's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Despite both switches utilizing nylon in their bottom housing, the differences between their top housings and the nature of the materials lead to contrasting sound experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Cherry MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, providing a heavier resistance for keystrokes. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unspecified, but it can be assumed that it might be lighter compared to the Cherry MX Black.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Cherry MX Black requires 80 grams of force to fully press the key, making it heavier than the Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which only demands 63.5 grams. While both switches require a significant amount of force, the Cherry MX Black results in a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force.
Weight is an important factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it can determine the typing experience and duration. Those who prefer lighter switches might find the Viola Tricolor more suitable, allowing them to comfortably type for extended periods, such as during work or lengthy gaming sessions. However, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more solid typing experience may lean towards options with heavier forces, such as the Cherry MX Black.
In summary, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ in terms of weight. While the exact actuation force of the Viola Tricolor is unknown, it is presumed to be lighter compared to the 60-gram actuation force of the Cherry MX Black. Similarly, the Viola Tricolor has a lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Cherry MX Black requires a heavier 80 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences regarding typing experience and duration.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, with the Viola Tricolor being the shorter option. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.8 mm is on the shallower side. However, the preference for shorter travel distances has grown in popularity, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Opting for a shorter travel distance can provide enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the switch with the longer travel distance may be more suitable for your preference. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it aligns with your typing or gaming style.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switch produces a low-pitched and mellow tone. This gives it a bass-heavy and smooth sound profile, which many users find familiar and satisfying. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile. It has a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Viola Tricolor switch adds a touch of character to your typing experience with its thuddy and punchy sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users appreciate this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch is stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. This can provide a more deliberate and controlled typing feel. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It provides a prominent amount of feedback without being overly tactile, creating a satisfying typing sensation. The Viola Tricolor switch is described as invigorating, with moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy, reactive feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black switch and Haimu Viola Tricolor switch have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black offers a low-pitched sound profile with a textured and stiff typing feel, while the Viola Tricolor provides a bassy sound profile with an accented and invigorating tactile feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, it's important to consider personal preferences, as well as the other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps chosen, when making a decision. By considering these aspects, one can achieve a similar satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a familiar deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black is the way to go. With its textured smoothness and low-pitched sound, it offers a classic typing experience. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a touch of character in both sound and feel, the Haimu Viola Tricolor is a great choice. It provides a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile, and its thuddy and punchy sound profile adds depth to your typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.