Outemu Blue vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Blue switch is best known for its distinct clicky sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a unique touch to your typing experience. The Viola Tricolor offers a balance of tactility and feedback without being overwhelming, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle tactile feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches, we can see that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, despite this similarity in housing material, it is important to note that other factors such as the design and construction of the switches may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
Where the two switches differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Blue switch uses nylon for its bottom housing, which typically results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, in terms of sound and feel during typing, both switches offer a comparable experience due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, the different housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches provide a unique typing experience for users. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, they also both incorporate nylon for the bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these similarities, the design and construction of each switch may still lead to subtle differences in typing feel and sound output. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that users are looking for.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is clear that the Blue switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor's unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unavailable. For those who prefer a lighter touch and more effortless keystrokes, the Outemu Blue switch would be the ideal choice. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger resistance may lean towards the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to varying preferences, ensuring that users can achieve optimal typing comfort and efficiency based on their individual needs.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we see that the Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Blue switch has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a more traditional key press feel with a bit more depth to it. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or those who prefer a faster response time. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience with only a slight difference in travel distance, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference for key press feel.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is best known for its loud and clicky sound that is often likened to that of a typewriter. This switch provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a unique sound profile that is described as bassy and low-pitched. This results in a deeper and richer sound during typing, adding a touch of character to the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its tactile bump and audible click that provides a tactile and auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is designed to offer a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor switch is accented and invigorating, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming but still offers a satisfying typing sensation with a firm actuation force.
Overall, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience for users. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, either switch could provide a satisfactory result, with the Blue switch offering a classic clicky experience and the Viola Tricolor switch providing a balanced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a clicky and audible sound profile with a light bottom out force, the Outemu Blue switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile without being overly tactile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the clicky sound of the Blue switch or the tactile feedback of the Viola Tricolor switch. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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