Kailh Sage vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself torn between the Kailh Sage and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. On one hand, the Sage offers a distinct clicky typing experience that some find invigorating, sharp, and crunchy. The weight of these switches is on the heavier side, providing a refreshing and satisfying clickiness. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor boasts a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to your typing. With pronounced tactility, these switches offer a satisfying feedback without becoming overly tactile. Categorized as accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched, the Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, providing a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Sage and Haimu Viola Tricolor both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, creating a sharper and higher-pitched tone. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the passage of light, adding a visually appealing element to the user experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Sage and Viola Tricolor feature nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics contributes to a duller and rounder sound, which can be desirable for those seeking a quieter typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly significant in these switches, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Kailh Sage and Haimu Viola Tricolor are the same, they provide similar results in terms of sound profile and user experience. The polycarbonate top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, while also allowing for the incorporation of RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile and a softer typing experience. Ultimately, these housing materials contribute to the unique characteristics and performance of each switch, catering to different preferences and requirements.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is important to consider their weight. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unknown, but the bottom out force can provide some insight. The Kailh Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls within the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also categorized as medium-heavy. Both switches offer a substantial typing experience with a decent amount of resistance. If weight is a factor, the lighter bottom out force of the Viola Tricolor may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for those who appreciate a stronger push feel, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Sage might provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, while the actuation force is not provided, it can be assumed that both switches would yield similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it becomes evident that the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Viola Tricolor measures at 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have gained popularity, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. For those who prioritize a more immediate and responsive feel, the Sage switch would be an ideal choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial and profound key press experience may find the Viola Tricolor's longer travel distance better suited to their preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on whether one values a briefer and snappier response or a more profound and deliberate keystroke.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
The Kailh Sage clicky switch is best known for its distinct clicky typing experience, offering a refreshingly sharp clickiness. The weight of the switch is considered heavy, providing satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. The sound of the Sage switch is described as crunchy, resembling the crisp and crunchy sound of stepping on autumn leaves.
On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to the typing experience. It strikes a perfect balance with its pronounced tactility, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. The Viola Tricolor switch is described as having an accented feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It also offers an invigorating typing sensation.
In terms of sound, the Sage switch produces a crunchy sound associated with clicky switches, while the Viola Tricolor switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. The sound produced by the switches is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both switches provide an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback. The Sage switch has a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress, while the Viola Tricolor switch is characterized as an accented switch, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle.
Based on the available information, the Sage switch and Viola Tricolor switch offer different subjective qualities. The Sage switch is known for its heavy weight, refreshingly sharp clickiness, and crunchy sound, while the Viola Tricolor switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound, pronounced tactility, and an accented feel. However, both switches provide an invigorating typing sensation with moderate to firm actuation force.
Please note that the ultimate typing experience and preference may vary depending on individual preferences, and it is important to consider personal taste and try out different switches to find the best fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch that offers a distinct and crisp typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, then the Kailh Sage switch is the perfect choice for you. With its invigorating and sharp tactile feel, you will enjoy a satisfying feedback with each keypress. Additionally, the Sage switch offers a unique sound profile described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lower bottom out force and a touch of character to your typing experience, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is an excellent option. It strikes a balance between tactility and smoothness, providing a sharp sensation without being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor switch is known for its accented and invigorating feel, offering a pronounced feedback and creating an immersive typing sensation. In terms of sound, the Viola Tricolor switch has a bassy and low-pitched profile, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch will depend on your preference for heavier clicky switches or slightly lighter tactile switches, as well as your desired sound and feel experience.
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