KTT Rose vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose 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 KTT Rose and the Haimu Viola Tricolor offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Rose switches are celebrated for their beauty and not just in appearance. The use of progressive springs in these switches results in a substantial, yet not heavy, typing experience that is reminiscent of bassy raindrops. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Rose switches provide a smooth and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. These switches strike a balance, providing pronounced tactility without crossing into being overly tactile. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', 'Invigorating', and 'Low-pitched', the Viola Tricolor switches offer a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create vibrant effects. In terms of aesthetics, these switches are similar as the clear housing indicates the use of polycarbonate. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting effects when using either the Rose or the Viola Tricolor.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Rose and the Viola Tricolor switches utilize nylon. Nylon is considered a classic housing material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch. However, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so users may notice slight differences in this aspect based on the specific design of each switch.
In summary, the similarities between the KTT Rose and the Haimu Viola Tricolor lie in the usage of polycarbonate for the top housing, which leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile, along with the advantage of displaying RGB lighting. Both switches also utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's sound absorption properties. While the overall sound experience may be similar, slight variations may be observed in the bottom-out sound and feel, influenced by the differences in the bottom housing design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of unavailable grams, making them inherently similar in this aspect. However, in terms of bottom out force, both switches have a force of 63.5 grams, which falls under the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may find the KTT Rose linear switch more suitable for their needs. A lighter switch enables longer periods of typing without excessive fatigue, which is favorable for those who regularly use their keyboards for work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be the better choice. Its heavier bottom out force provides a satisfying feedback while typing.
In summary, while the actuation force of both switches remains unknown, the KTT Rose linear switch is lighter, ideal for extended typing sessions, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is heavier, offering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is clear that the Rose has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Rose being slightly on the higher end and the Viola Tricolor being slightly on the lower end. Gamers generally prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Viola Tricolor a favorable choice in this scenario. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Rose with its longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone. This means that the sound profile is more bass-heavy and mellow, but not overly so, providing a pleasant typing experience suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Similar to the Rose, it also has a low-pitched sound, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory feedback, but in different ways. Depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound may vary slightly, but overall, you can expect similar results from both switches.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. Being a linear switch, it offers a more gentle typing sensation, making it approachable for most users. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This adds to the overall sleekness of the typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers an accented and invigorating feel. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming the user, striking a balance between a noticeable tactile feedback and a comfortable typing experience. The switch has a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive sensation. Both switches offer their own unique qualities in terms of feel, catering to different preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Rose linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Rose provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a bassy sound profile and an accented and invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel. However, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, showcasing their own distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a unique typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch would be a great choice. These switches have progressive springs that offer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience. The Rose switches have a low-pitched sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. They also have a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch would be perfect for you. These switches offer a pronounced tactile feedback without being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor switches have a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding character to your typing experience. They also have an accented and invigorating feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch will come down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Consider what qualities are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.
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