Kailh Plum vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Plum and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, both of which are tactile switches. The Plum is known for its unique combination of weightiness and a subtle tactile bump, setting it apart from other tactile switches. The sound profile of the Plum is neutral and enjoyable, giving a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. It offers a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Kailh Plum Tactile

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.25 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, offer similar benefits. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience of both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using these switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Plum uses nylon, while the Viola Tricolor also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer characteristics. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a different sound profile and typing experience when pressing down on the Plum and Viola Tricolor switches.

When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. As a result, the different bottom housing materials of the Plum and Viola Tricolor will contribute to distinct tactile experiences when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material has a larger influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users may notice variations in the sound when letting go of a key between the Plum and Viola Tricolor switches.

In summary, the housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, the different bottom housing materials – nylon for the Plum and Viola Tricolor – lead to variations in the typing experience. The Plum's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Additionally, the top housing material has an impact on the sound when releasing a key, further contributing to the differences between the two switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is noteworthy that the specific values for the actuation force are unavailable for both switches. However, the bottom out force of the Plum is 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also within the medium-heavy range.

Considering weight in terms of typing experience, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to allow them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This is particularly suitable for those using the keyboard in work environments or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are individuals who favor a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.

Although the exact actuation force values are unavailable, it is safe to assume that both the Plum and Viola Tricolor switches offer a similar actuation force since it is not explicitly mentioned that one is lighter or heavier than the other. Therefore, users can expect comparable results when it comes to the force required to trigger a keystroke. Overall, the Plum switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Viola Tricolor, but both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, catering to individuals who prefer a more tactile typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is 3.6 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Comparatively, both switches have shorter travel distances than the more traditional 4.0 mm, indicating they fall into the category of shorter travel switches. This shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. If responsiveness is an important factor for you, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Plum switch may be more suitable. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial key press feel, the longer travel distance of the Viola Tricolor switch may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as having a bassy sound profile. This means that it offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also has a low-pitched sound, which gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a mild and stepped feel. The mild feel offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. The stepped feel refers to the tactile switches that feel like they have two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel that create a more mild tactile experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as having an accented and invigorating feel. The accented feel refers to a "medium tactile" switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The invigorating feel offers pronounced feedback, a snappy and reactive feel, and moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in an immersive typing sensation.

Considering all the available information, the Kailh Plum tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of hefty weightiness without a huge tactile bump, offering a distinct feel compared to many other tactile switches. Its sound profile is described as neutral and enjoyable, making it suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to typing. It offers pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. Its feel is described as accented and invigorating, providing a satisfying and immersive typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a similar feel and sound to the Kailh Plum, the Viola Tricolor would be a good option as it provides comparable results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a unique tactile experience and a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. If you prefer a switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile, along with pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be the better option. These switches strike a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. They provide a deeper and richer sound profile resembling bass tones and have a medium tactile feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for sound and feel, so consider what type of typing experience you desire when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more