Outemu Gold vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and the Haimu Viola Tricolor stand out as popular options with unique characteristics. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, known for its distinct clicking sound that provides auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a satisfying feedback. The Viola Tricolor strikes a balance between sharp sensation and user comfort, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Outemu Gold and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the Gold and Viola Tricolor share this material for their top housing, they differ when it comes to their bottom housing material.
The Gold utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing material between the Gold and Viola Tricolor will impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of the switches.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gold, and polycarbonate top and bottom housing in the Viola Tricolor, will result in unique typing experiences for each switch.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Gold switch's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, with the Viola Tricolor being slightly heavier on the bottom out force. This means that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of ease of triggering a keystroke with the Gold switch, but may feel a bit more resistance when bottoming out with the Viola Tricolor switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and key press resistance.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky 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 Gold switch. The Gold switch offers a traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Viola Tricolor provides a slightly shallower 3.8 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Viola Tricolor for its slightly quicker response time due to the shorter distance. However, some users may find the Gold switch more comfortable due to its slightly longer travel distance providing a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch is known for not having a specific sound descriptor provided. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as "bassy" and "low-pitched," offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. The Viola Tricolor's sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, providing a sense of depth and richness similar to bass tones. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Gold switch does not have a given descriptor for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is characterized as "accented" and "invigorating." These tactile switches offer a satisfying amount of feedback without being too intense or subtle. They provide a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive typing experience that can be described as invigorating and immersive.
Overall, while the specific qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches aim to enhance the user's typing experience with unique characteristics. If you enjoy a switch with a balanced sound profile and a sharp tactile sensation, the Viola Tricolor may be the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer a switch that does not have a specific sound descriptor and offers a tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced or subtle, the Gold switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a unique sound profile and a balanced tactile experience in your mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile while providing a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches strike a perfect balance for a fulfilling typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a distinct sound and feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, tactility, and typing experience.
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