Outemu Phoenix vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix 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 stand out: the Outemu Phoenix and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most distinctive clicky switches on the market. With a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, the Phoenix is best suited for those who crave an engaging and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that is designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. With pronounced tactility, the Viola Tricolor offers a satisfying feedback without becoming overwhelmingly tactile. Categorized as accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched, this switch strikes a perfect balance, giving the user a sharp sensation without being too intense. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision and choose the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Phoenix and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ in their housing materials, but both switches feature polycarbonate top housing. This translates to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, allows for a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the top housing of the Phoenix and the Viola Tricolor.
On the other hand, while the Phoenix incorporates polycarbonate in its bottom housing, the Viola Tricolor adopts a nylon bottom housing. This distinction significantly impacts the typing experience. The Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Consequently, users can expect a different auditory experience when bottoming out the keys on the Phoenix compared to the Viola Tricolor.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housing of a switch. When pressing down on a switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is primarily influenced by the bottom housing. In contrast, the sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. This means that despite having different bottom housing materials, both the Phoenix and the Viola Tricolor will exhibit similarities in terms of the sound experienced when releasing a key. However, the tactile feedback and auditory experience during key presses will vary due to the differences in bottom housing between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is important to consider their weight. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force of both switches is unavailable, but we can discuss the available information. The Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in weight. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison as it falls into the medium-heavy range.
Actuation force refers to the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the force needed to fully press a key. In this case, since the actuation force for both switches is unknown, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, if we assume that the actuation forces are similar, we can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke for both switches.
When it comes to weight preference, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing periods, which is particularly desirable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may appreciate a heavier switch to provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. For those looking for a stronger push feel, a switch with a heavier bottom out force would be suitable.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ slightly in their bottom out forces, with the Viola Tricolor being slightly heavier. However, without information regarding their actuation forces, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer slightly different experiences. The Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In comparison to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, both switches are on the shorter side. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Phoenix switch a popular choice among them. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel, the Viola Tricolor's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired level of responsiveness.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The subjective qualities of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix switch is best known for its unique click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling sound profile that resembles stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a touch of character. It has a deeper and richer sound due to its bassy nature, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, the sound of each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Phoenix switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The materials used and potential factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is characterized as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel that creates an invigorating typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix switch offers a crunchy and polished typing experience with a unique click mechanism, while the Viola Tricolor switch delivers a bassy and accented sensation with its thuddy sound and pronounced tactility. Both switches provide satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. While they offer distinct experiences, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and sparkling typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is the way to go. These switches are best known for their under-skirt click mechanism, which offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. They provide a satisfying crunchy sound that resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch is polished and offers reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a touch of character in sound, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is an excellent choice. These switches are designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile without being overly tactile. They offer a pronounced tactility, striking a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. The Viola Tricolor switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. In terms of feel, this switch is accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, creating an invigorating and immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel that align with your typing style and desired experience.
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