Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The V3 Piano Pro features linear switches known for their snappy sound signature, providing a lively and crisp quality to keystrokes while maintaining a smooth actuation for a pleasing tactile experience. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor boasts tactile switches that offer a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to typing. These switches strike a balance between pronounced tactility and not being overly tactile, providing satisfying feedback without overwhelming the user. While the V3 Piano Pro is great for those seeking a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Viola Tricolor is ideal for users looking for an accented and invigorating sensation. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on switches from both keyboards will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. The absorbing qualities of this material also contribute to creating a duller and rounder sound, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for users of both keyboards.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes nylon while the Viola Tricolor uses polycarbonate. This results in a notable difference in sound profiles between the two keyboards. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a brighter typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor will depend on the user's preference for sound profile. While both keyboards feature nylon bottom housing for a similar deep and full sound, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing will provide a more rounded and dull sound compared to the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, users should consider their personal preference for sound when choosing between these keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it's clear that there are significant differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Piano Pro has a moderate actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a light and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. The V3 Piano Pro is lighter in terms of force required, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Viola Tricolor provides a heavier push feel for those who prefer a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a balance between the traditional longer travel distances and the more modern shorter travel distances. Gamers may prefer the Akko V3 Piano Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, leading to faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Haimu Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and percussive sound that adds liveliness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of depth and richness to the typing experience. Both switches have unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference, with the V3 Piano Pro offering a crisper sound and the Viola Tricolor providing a deeper tone.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Piano Pro is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a range of tactile sensations from a spring-like response to a smooth and refined key travel. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor is said to be accented and invigorating, providing a pronounced tactile feedback without being overly tactile. Both switches offer a tactile experience that can cater to different preferences, with the V3 Piano Pro focusing more on a smooth and buttery feel while the Viola Tricolor offers a balanced tactile sensation.
Overall, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that can cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The V3 Piano Pro excels in providing a lively and crisp sound with a range of smooth tactile experiences, while the Viola Tricolor offers a punchy sound profile and a balanced tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper sound with smooth key travel or a deeper sound with a balanced tactile feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a snappy, crisp sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a thuddy, punchy sound profile with a balanced tactility, the Viola Tricolor is the way to go. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so choose based on your personal typing preferences. Ultimately, your keyboard experience will be greatly enhanced by selecting the switch that aligns with your individual typing style.
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