TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) 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 TTC Silent Bluish White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are two popular options to consider. The Silent Bluish White offers a medium tactile feel, providing a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. However, what sets these switches apart is their emphasis on silence. Designed to be as quiet as possible, they are a great choice for those who work in an office or share a living space. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches focus on delivering a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. With their pronounced tactility, they offer a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. This balance allows for a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 TTC Silent Bluish White and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches' polycarbonate top housings have the aesthetic advantage of being translucent, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and visual effects when using both the TTC Silent Bluish White and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches.
However, the Silent Bluish White and Viola Tricolor switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Silent Bluish White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also has a nylon bottom housing, meaning it shares the same acoustic qualities as the Silent Bluish White. Typing on both switches will result in a similar deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the nylon bottom housing.
In terms of performance, while the top and bottom housings may have some impact on the sound, their influence differs. Pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The top housing, however, will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect variations in sound characteristics depending on the switch's housing materials, particularly when it comes to the bottom-out and release sounds.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, some notable differences can be observed. The Silent Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which results in a relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is currently unavailable, but its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel.
For those who prefer a lighter switch in order to type for longer periods of time, the Silent Bluish White would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation force allows for a smoother and potentially faster typing experience. This would be beneficial for individuals using the keyboard extensively for work or engaging in long gaming sessions.
Alternatively, individuals who are looking for a more substantial and tactile typing experience might lean towards the Viola Tricolor. While the actuation force of this switch is unknown, the higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams suggests a heavier and more robust keystroke. This could be preferable for those who enjoy a satisfying push feel while typing.
Overall, the Silent Bluish White is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, providing a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a medium-heavy bottom out force, potentially resulting in a more substantial typing experience. In both cases, the switches cater to specific preferences and ensure that users can achieve their desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have different travel distances. The Silent Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. However, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who desire a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $5.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is best described as muted. These switches are designed to produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes them ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority, such as offices or shared living spaces. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches have a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This adds a touch of character to the typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch provides a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild tactility of these switches ensures a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. The stepped design provides a slight pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding to the overall mild feel. Additionally, the switch has a gentle resistance and a polished finish, further enhancing the smoothness of the typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented and invigorating. These switches offer a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming but still provides pronounced feedback. The moderate to firm actuation force and snappy feel create an immersive typing sensation.
Overall, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is best suited for those seeking a quiet typing experience with a medium level of tactility. These switches provide a satisfying resistance and precise typing feel without being overly tactile. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is an excellent choice for those who want a punchy sound profile and a more pronounced tactile feedback. The Viola Tricolor strikes a balance between being tactile without overwhelming the user. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, if you are looking for a similar level of tactility and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch would be a reliable choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a medium tactile feel, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a precise and comfortable typing experience with their satisfying level of resistance. They are also designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. The Silent Bluish Whites offer a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, these switches are described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a pronounced tactile feel, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch would be a suitable option. These switches deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience. They offer a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user and strike a perfect balance in terms of tactility. The Viola Tricolor switches are described as accented and invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and creating an immersive typing sensation. In terms of sound, they are described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile resembling bass tones.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Silent Bluish White and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a quieter and smoother typing experience, along with a lighter bottom out force, the Silent Bluish Whites would be a great fit. However, if you enjoy a more prominent tactile feedback, with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a sound profile with depth and character, the Viola Tricolor switches would be a suitable choice. Consider your desired typing experience and noise level when making your decision.
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