KTT Peach vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT Peach and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Peach and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Peach switch is widely regarded for its prized characteristics as a linear switch, promising a notably smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a unique tactile experience, with a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to your typing. It strikes a perfect balance with its pronounced tactility, providing satisfying feedback without becoming overly tactile. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you choose the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Peach and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, namely polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, bring similar benefits to the switches. Both polycarbonate and nylon are known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their stiffness and ability to resonate. Additionally, their translucency makes them suitable for switches with RGB lighting, as they allow for a visually appealing lighting effect. Therefore, if you are looking for switches with a vibrant and clear sound profile, both the Peach and the Viola Tricolor would be suitable choices.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the nylon material brings a different quality to the typing experience. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing focuses more on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, if you prioritize the sound when bottoming out the keys, the Peach's nylon bottom housing would be a better option.
In summary, both the KTT Peach and the Haimu Viola Tricolor utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile suitable for RGB lighting. Additionally, their nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, but with a duller and rounder tone. However, the impact of each housing material differs, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Peach linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Peach switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a relatively light touch for triggering keystrokes. In contrast, the actuation force of the Viola Tricolor switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares. However, the bottom out force of the Peach switch is 53 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when pressing down fully. In comparison, the Viola Tricolor switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it noticeably heavier.
Considerations of weight are crucial when selecting a switch for various typing preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Peach switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This can be beneficial for individuals using the keyboard extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. Conversely, some users may desire a more substantial typing experience characterized by a stronger push feel. For these individuals, the Viola Tricolor switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice.
It is worth noting that if the actuation force of the Viola Tricolor switch is similar to that of the Peach switch, users can expect comparable results in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes. However, the Viola Tricolor switch would still offer a heavier bottom out force, yielding a different typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
The KTT Peach linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Peach has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Peach representing the more standard 4 mm distance. However, the Viola Tricolor offers a slightly shallower travel distance at 3.8 mm. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and specific use cases. Gamers, for example, may prefer the Viola Tricolor with its shorter travel distance for faster response times. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Peach with its slightly longer travel distance. It is important to note that both switches provide a noticeable tactile feedback and offer a satisfying 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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Peach linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it's important to note that both switches offer unique characteristics. The Peach switch is best known for its deep, thocky sound profile, which creates a low-pitched tone during key presses. This switch provides a syrupy smooth typing experience, and its sound is often described as mellow and bass-heavy.
On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch offers a different sound experience. It is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. The Viola Tricolor switch is also described as bassy and low-pitched, similar to the Peach switch. However, it strikes a balance in terms of sound, providing a richness and depth that enhances the typing sensation without overwhelming the user.
In terms of feel, the Peach switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone when it comes to switch characteristics. This means that most users will find the sound and feel approachable, as it provides a gentle typing experience without any extreme qualities.
The Viola Tricolor switch, on the other hand, offers an accented tactile experience. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. This creates a medium tactile switch that gives satisfying feedback during typing. Additionally, the Viola Tricolor switch is described as invigorating, which means it offers pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the KTT Peach linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Peach switch provides a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a balance of bassy and low-pitched tones. In terms of feel, the Peach switch offers a mild typing experience, while the Viola Tricolor switch provides an accented tactile feel that is invigorating and satisfying. Overall, both switches offer enjoyable and characteristic typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Peach linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider.
If you prioritize a smooth and thocky typing experience with a deep sound profile, the KTT Peach switch would be an excellent choice. With its medium-light bottom out force and syrupy smooth keypresses, you can expect a satisfying and mellow typing experience. Additionally, the Peach switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a touch of character and a pronounced tactility without becoming overly tactile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch would be ideal. With a medium-heavy bottom out force and a thuddy and punchy sound profile, these switches offer a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. They also have a bassy tone, adding depth and richness to your typing experience.
In terms of feel, if you prefer a mild and approachable typing experience, the Peach switch is the way to go. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, providing a gentle typing experience that will be suitable for most users. On the other hand, if you crave an invigorating and immersive typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel, the Viola Tricolor switch will deliver exactly that. It offers an accentuated tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Peach linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider whether you prioritize a smooth and thocky typing experience (Peach) or a switch with a touch of character and pronounced tactility (Viola Tricolor). Additionally, think about the sound profile you prefer, whether it's a neutral tone (Peach) or a bassy sound (Viola Tricolor). Lastly, consider the level of feel you desire, whether it's a mild and approachable experience (Peach) or an invigorating and immersive sensation (Viola Tricolor).
In the end, both switches have their unique qualities and will enhance your typing experience in different ways. Make your choice based on what matters most to you and enjoy the journey of exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches!
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