Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are two options worth considering. The Cream switches provide a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, offering a tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, striking a perfect balance between sharp sensation and satisfying feedback. Both switches have their strengths and can enhance your typing experience in different ways. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches provide distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cream switch utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deep and muted sound. The Viola Tricolor, on the other hand, incorporates polycarbonate for the top housing, generating a sharper and higher-pitched sound, especially ideal for RGB lighting. However, the Cream's POM bottom housing and the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, with nylon exhibiting greater sound absorption properties compared to the stiffer POM material.

When it comes to sound considerations, the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles. While the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Consequently, the Cream switch's POM housing creates a more pleasing and unique sound, characterized by its deeper and muted quality. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing delivers a crisper sound attributed to its stiffness and resonance. Therefore, despite having different housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of unique sound profiles from both switches.

In addition to sound, the choice of housing material also affects the tactile experience of typing on these switches. The softer nylon material used in the Viola Tricolor's bottom housing produces a slightly duller and rounder tactile feel compared to the Cream's POM bottom housing. Nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to this tactile sensation, creating a deeper typing experience. Conversely, the Cream's POM bottom housing provides a different tactile experience, which can be described as deep and satisfying. Overall, while the top housing primarily impacts sound, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the tactile feedback perceived when pressing the keys.

In summary, the housing materials used in the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cream's POM housing results in a deeper and more muted sound, while the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound ideal for RGB lighting. Similarly, the Cream's POM bottom housing and the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, with nylon offering a slightly duller and rounder tactile feel. Despite these differences, both switches provide unique and satisfying typing experiences, with the top and bottom housings each playing their own role in delivering distinct sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force within the medium-heavy range. The Cream requires 70 grams to bottom out, while the Viola Tricolor requires 63.5 grams.

Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Cream, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, which is particularly beneficial for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force, in which case the Viola Tricolor would be suitable.

Overall, while the specific actuation force for the Viola Tricolor is unknown, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to press all the way down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding the actuation force and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh NovelKeys Cream 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. The NovelKeys Cream falls into the traditional range of travel distances, while the Viola Tricolor is slightly shallower. In recent times, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance would be ideal. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to feel abrupt, so if you prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the switch with the longer travel distance would be a better choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. The low-pitched characteristic provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the resonant feature delivers a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches provide a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound during key presses will have a deeper and richer quality, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that add character to the typing experience. Depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, you can expect similar results in terms of sound, with the Cream switches offering a deeper sound and the Viola Tricolor switches providing a bassy tone.

In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery, textured, and invigorating. The buttery nature of these switches implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. They also have a textured characteristic, meaning that there is noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the Cream switches offer an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive sensation that immerses the user. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches are described as accented and invigorating. The term "accented" is typically used to describe a medium tactile switch that offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or overly subtle. This means that the Viola Tricolor switches provide a pronounced tactile feedback without crossing the line into excessive tactility. Similar to the Cream switches, the Viola Tricolor switches also offer an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive sensation.

In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream switches produce a deeper sound profile that is resonant and low-pitched, while the Viola Tricolor switches have a bassy and low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Cream switches provide a buttery and textured typing experience with an invigorating sensation, while the Viola Tricolor switches offer an accented touch with an invigorating and tactile feel. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose the sound and feel that best suits their preferences. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, as they can also impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches would be the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a heftier typing experience and offer a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, giving you a bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a buttery feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that adds character to your typing experience, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches would be more suitable for you. These switches offer a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance between feedback and sensation. The Viola Tricolor switches are known for their thuddy and punchy sound profile, characterized by a bass-heavy and low-pitched tone.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches depends on your personal preferences for linear or tactile switches, as well as the desired sound and feel. Consider the factors mentioned and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more