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Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it's evident that each offers unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Brown is best known for its tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy a subtle tactile sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor stands out for its thuddy and punchy sound profile, providing a more pronounced tactility that adds character to the typing experience. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance between sharp sensation and user comfort, offering a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. 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

45g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

65g

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

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

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Dual-staged gold-plated spring

Housing materials

The Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the two switches differ in their nylon bottom housings. The Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing elicits a deep and full sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.

Despite their similarities in polycarbonate top housing, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor offer distinct typing experiences due to their different bottom housing materials. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, they produce different sound profiles when typing. The Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a mechanical keyboard switch.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches creates a sharp and crisp sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to a different sound profile - the Dustproof Brown's bottom housing results in a deep and full sound, while the Viola Tricolor's bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller tone. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help mechanical keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we find that the Dustproof Brown is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dustproof Brown requiring 65 grams and the Viola Tricolor needing 63.5 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dustproof Brown may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for users who appreciate a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing weight and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Brown. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Dustproof Brown being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Viola Tricolor, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Dustproof Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing 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 Outemu Dustproof Brown 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 Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a unique and characteristic experience with its thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of depth and richness to each key press. The bassy and low-pitched characteristics of the Viola Tricolor switches contribute to a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Dustproof Brown switches remains unknown, leaving it up to personal testing and preference to discover their sound qualities.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Viola Tricolor tactile switch stands out with its accented and invigorating tactile feedback. These switches provide a pronounced amount of tactile sensation without becoming overwhelming, striking a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort during typing sessions. In contrast, the feel of the Dustproof Brown switches is not specified, leaving it to individual users to explore and determine their tactile characteristics and feedback.

Overall, the Viola Tricolor switches offer a unique combination of distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to users seeking a tactile typing experience with character and depth. While the Dustproof Brown switches may provide a different experience, both switches offer their own strengths and qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience based on individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing feel.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a switch with no specific sound profile, the Dustproof Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams, along with a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, and a tactile sensation that is pronounced without being overwhelming, the Viola Tricolor would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.

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