Outemu Lotus vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the Haimu Viola Tricolor offer distinct typing experiences. The Lotus is a linear switch, known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch, designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a satisfying feedback. While the Lotus is best known for its simplicity and reliability, the Viola Tricolor stands out for its pronounced tactility and balanced sensation. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, one can see a clear distinction in the sound profiles produced by the switches. The Lotus's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound thanks to its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in the top housing materials of the Lotus and Viola Tricolor, both switches have nylon bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as the softer nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing may have a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressing down on a key. This similarity in bottom housing materials highlights the importance of the composition of different parts of a switch in creating a cohesive typing experience.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in the Outemu Lotus and Haimu Viola Tricolor ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both materials offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound and polycarbonate offering a sharper and crisper sound. Regardless of which material is used, the housing plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of a switch, showcasing the importance of material selection in creating a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Lotus has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Lotus requires less force to trigger a keystroke but more force to fully press the key down compared to the Viola Tricolor. As a result, users who prefer a lighter typing experience may prefer the Lotus, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Viola Tricolor. The Lotus may be more preferred by those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor with its longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between them.
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 Lotus 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Lotus linear switch is not specifically known for a particular sound profile, so it is likely to provide a more neutral and subtle typing experience in terms of noise. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is designed to offer a thuddy and punchy sound, characterized by a bassy and low-pitched tone during key presses. This can add a unique and satisfying auditory dimension to your typing sessions, enhancing the overall experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a defined tactile sensation to offer, so it may provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without any additional feedback. Conversely, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a tactile bump that is noticeable but not overwhelming. This type of switch is designed to give users a satisfying sensation with each key press, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch may provide a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Viola Tricolor switch stands out for its unique sound profile and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, with the Lotus offering a more neutral option and the Viola Tricolor adding a touch of character to your typing sessions. Regardless of which switch you choose, both are likely to deliver reliable performance and durability in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light linear switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Outemu Lotus switch might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch could be the better choice. The Lotus is known for its simplicity, while the Viola Tricolor offers a unique sound profile and a perfect balance of tactility. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for key feel and sound.
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