Outemu Black vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Black, a linear switch, and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch. The Outemu Black switch is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a straightforward typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is best known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile, offering unique tactile feedback that adds character to each keystroke. While the Black switch is categorized as linear, the Viola Tricolor switch falls into the categories of accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched. Depending on your preference for either a linear or tactile typing experience, you may lean towards one switch over the other. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Black and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these switches leads to a more clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Both switches share these qualities in their top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles when typing.

However, the housing materials differ in the bottom housings of the Outemu Black and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Black features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, sharing these qualities with the Black and resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.

Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. While both the Outemu Black and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, their nylon bottom housings differentiate them in terms of sound and feel. The split between the bottom and top housing materials means that the sound profile of a switch is influenced by both parts, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch with the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is evident that the Black has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Viola's unknown actuation force. The Black also has a higher bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Viola has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Black switch heavier in both aspects compared to the Viola, which falls in the medium-heavy category. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Black switch make it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, while the Viola may be better for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Black switch. The Black switch offers a more traditional 4.0mm travel distance, while the Viola Tricolor falls on the shallower end with 3.8mm. Gamers might prefer the Viola Tricolor for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper press may opt for the Outemu Black switch. Overall, both switches offer a decent travel distance that can cater to different preferences depending on the user's needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for its quiet operation, lacking any distinct characteristics in terms of sound profile. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a unique experience with a thuddy and punchy sound that adds character to typing. The Viola Tricolor switches produce a bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses compared to the relatively silent Outemu Black. Sound preference is subjective, so the choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.

In regard to feel, the Outemu Black switch is noted for its smooth linear travel without any tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides an invigorating experience with a pronounced tactility that is not overwhelming but still offers satisfying feedback. The Viola Tricolor switches are described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between being noticeable and not overbearing. This contrast in feel highlights the difference between a linear switch like the Outemu Black and a tactile switch like the Viola Tricolor, catering to different preferences for typing feedback.

Considering the information provided, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Outemu Black is known for its quiet operation and smooth linear feel, the Viola Tricolor stands out with a thuddy sound profile and an invigorating tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Keep in mind that individual factors such as keyboard build, keycaps, and typing style can also play a role in the overall typing feel and sound profile, so experimentation may be necessary to find the perfect switch for your needs.

Conclusion

Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier switch with no tactile feedback, the Outemu Black may be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a unique thuddy and punchy sound profile, as well as a pronounced yet balanced tactile sensation, the Haimu Viola Tricolor could be the ideal option for your typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel, sound profile, and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more