Outemu Red Panda vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Red Panda and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, both of which fall under the tactile category. The Red Panda is best known for its light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Categorized as "Thocky" and "Mild", these switches provide a satisfying typing experience without being overly tactile. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, offering a pronounced tactility that adds character to your typing. Categorized as "Accented", "Bassy", "Invigorating", and "Low-pitched", the Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance between sharp sensation and user comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$3.40 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Red Panda and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting.

Similarly, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the bottom housing of these switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel that is experienced when pressing down on the keys.

Despite these similarities, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings may differ slightly between the two switches. While both polycarbonate top housings will impact the sound when releasing a key, the specific characteristics and nuances of each switch's top housing might result in subtle variations in sound production. Similarly, the unique properties of the nylon bottom housings may also contribute to slight differences in the overall sound and feel when typing on these switches.

In summary, the Outemu Red Panda and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share comparable housing materials, with the use of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing. This results in similar benefits, such as improved sound profiles and functionality with RGB lighting. However, there may be subtle distinctions between the two switches due to variances in the specific properties and design of their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, the Red Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor's force, which is unknown. However, both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the Red Panda at 60 grams and the Viola Tricolor at 63.5 grams, making them comparable in terms of typing experience. The weight factor should be taken into consideration as well. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Red Panda, as it allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may choose the Viola Tricolor with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision will depend on the personal preference and typing style of the user.

Travel distance

The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Comparing the two, it is clear that the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. In terms of preferences, shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Red Panda a suitable choice in this case. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more hearty depth when pressing down on the key, the Viola Tricolor with its longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and the desired experience when typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a unique combination of a bassier and raindrop-like bottom-out sound, along with a clackier and higher-pitched top-out sound. This results in a satisfying auditory experience that adds character to your typing. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, which provides a deeper and richer tone during key presses. It offers a lower-pitched sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience, but the Viola Tricolor offers a deeper and punchier sound compared to the Red Panda.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls into the category of mild switches, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. The Haimu Viola Tricolor switch, on the other hand, is described as an accented switch. It offers a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a satisfying feedback without crossing into the realm of being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor switch also offers an invigorating and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience, but the Viola Tricolor offers a more pronounced and invigorating feedback compared to the Red Panda.

Taking all the information into account, the Outemu Red Panda and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Red Panda provides a bassier and clackier sound profile with a mild typing experience, while the Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with an accented and invigorating feel. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile with a pronounced tactile feedback, you can achieve similar results with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Red Panda and Viola Tricolor will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without being overly tactile, and a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, then the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be the perfect fit. The Viola Tricolor strikes a balance between sharp sensation and not overwhelming the user. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound profile, and typing experience. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more