Gateron Quinn vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Quinn and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are two options worth considering. The Gateron Quinn switches are known for their unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile. With a specially designed nylon housing, these switches provide a precise and clean tactile bump, giving each keystroke a touch of character. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a distinctive element to the typing experience. With a pronounced tactility, these switches strike a perfect balance between satisfying feedback and not being overly tactile. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Quinn and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ in terms of their housing materials. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor has a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous if RGB lighting is intended, as its translucency enhances the lighting effects.
On the other hand, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing. This common housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the Quinn's nylon top housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience when using either the Quinn or the Viola Tricolor due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
When comparing the overall performance of the switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the sound and feel when the key is bottomed-out, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Hence, while the housing materials may differ between the Gateron Quinn and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, the overall typing experience and sound produced will depend on the combination of these housing materials in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the Quinn, it has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, information about the actuation force of the Viola Tricolor is unavailable. However, it is known that the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch.
Considering weight, there are advantages to both lighter and heavier switches. Some users prefer lighter switches as it allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work keyboards or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who seek a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In terms of actuation force, the Quinn is the lighter of the two switches with its known force of 59 grams. Unfortunately, the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is not provided, so it is unclear how it compares in this aspect. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force. The Quinn requires 67 grams to fully press down, while the Viola Tricolor demands slightly less with its 63.5 grams.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Gateron Quinn is known to be lighter, the actuation force of the Haimu Viola Tricolor remains unknown. However, both switches share a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a similar experience. Ultimately, individuals seeking a tactile switch can consider these factors to determine which option better suits their preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of comparison, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, as the traditional travel distance is around 4.0 mm. This shorter travel distance is favored by gamers who desire faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Quinn with its 3.4 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down a key, the Viola Tricolor with its 3.8 mm travel distance would offer a deeper sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance aligns better with individual typing or gaming preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch is best known for its unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. These switches have specially designed nylon housings that enhance the sound of each keypress, resulting in a rich and immersive typing experience. The sound of the Quinn switches can be described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. Bassy switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile, while clacky switches produce a sharp and snappy sound. Low-pitched switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, and resonant switches provide a higher-pitched sound profile. Overall, the Quinn switches offer a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump accompanied by a character-filled sound.
On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. These switches offer a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, providing a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. In terms of sound, the Viola Tricolor switches are described as bassy and low-pitched. Similar to the Quinn switches, they offer a deep and rich sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. Snappy switches are super responsive, providing a lively typing experience. Polished switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel. Accented switches offer a medium amount of tactility. Buttery switches provide a seamless and uniform typing sensation, while creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating. Accented switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, while invigorating switches offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.
Based on the available information, both the Gateron Quinn and Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switches have their unique qualities. The Quinn switches offer a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound, while the Viola Tricolor switches provide a thuddy and punchy sound with a pronounced but balanced tactility. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience without overwhelming the user. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches, delivering a pleasant and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch are both solid options.
The Quinn switches are known for their unique combination of crisp and light switch-like tactility, as well as a deep and resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, you can expect a precise and crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound. If you value a clean and sharp typing experience with a touch of character, the Quinn switches would be a great choice.
On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile. These switches offer a pronounced tactility, providing satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. If you prefer a tactile switch that adds character to your typing experience while maintaining a moderate level of tactility, the Viola Tricolor switches would be a suitable option.
Ultimately, the decision between the Quinn and the Viola Tricolor hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a crisp and resonant sound with a clean and precise tactile bump, the Quinn switches would be a great fit. However, if you prefer a thuddy and punchy sound with a pronounced tactile feedback, the Viola Tricolor switches would be the better choice. Consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision.
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