TTC Speed Silver vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Speed Silver and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Speed Silver switches are renowned for their fast and precise typing experience. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these linear switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. They also offer a pristine sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a sleek and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are known for their thuddy and punchy sound profile, which adds a touch of character to your typing experience. These tactile switches strike a perfect balance by providing pronounced tactility without being overly tactile. They offer a satisfying feedback and a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide which switch suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similar housing materials, as both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Aesthetically speaking, the clear polycarbonate housing adds to the visual appeal of both the Speed Silver and the Viola Tricolor.
Despite their similarities in top housing, the Speed Silver and the Viola Tricolor differ in their bottom housing material. The Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a unique typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also employs a nylon bottom housing, which offers a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switches, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. While both the Speed Silver and the Viola Tricolor may exhibit similar characteristics in their top housing, the contrasting bottom housing materials give the switches their own distinct typing experiences.
In summary, the Speed Silver and the Viola Tricolor share polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, they differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Speed Silver utilizing a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, while the Viola Tricolor offers a similar experience with its own nylon bottom housing. The combination of these housing materials influences the overall typing feel and sound of the switches, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unavailable. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Speed Silver requiring 55 grams and the Viola Tricolor requiring 63.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Speed Silver is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces. This makes it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for longer periods of usage without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor provides a more substantial pushing feel, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a heavier keystroke. However, without knowing the exact actuation force of the Viola Tricolor, it is difficult to compare the two in terms of actuation. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience can opt for the Speed Silver, while those desiring a heavier and more substantial typing experience may find the Viola Tricolor more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is evident that the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. These distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the TTC Speed Silver with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial keypress experience may prefer the Haimu Viola Tricolor with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the preference for a shorter or longer travel distance depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Speed Silver and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer distinct profiles. The Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound, which means it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch provides a bassy sound with low-pitched tones, giving it a deeper and richer sound profile. 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 factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic indicates a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, while the polished finish provides a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented and invigorating. The accented tactile feedback offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. This creates a medium tactile switch that provides a satisfying amount of feedback. Additionally, the invigorating switch offers a snappy and reactive feel, leading to an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the TTC Speed Silver and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer different subjective qualities. The Speed Silver switch provides a pristine sound profile, a mild and polished feel, and a fast and precise typing experience. While the Viola Tricolor switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, an accented and invigorating feel, and a tactile typing experience with a perfect balance of feedback. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the Speed Silver switch for a more neutral and efficient typing experience, or the Viola Tricolor switch for a more character-filled and tactile typing experience. It's important to consider your specific typing needs and preference for sound and feel when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. With its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance, it allows for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver also offers a pristine sound profile, which is described as neutral. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is perfect for those who desire a tactile typing experience with a touch of character. It provides a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. The Viola Tricolor also offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, described as bassy and low-pitched, adding depth and richness to your typing. In terms of feel, the Speed Silver is mild and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. Meanwhile, the Viola Tricolor is accented and invigorating, offering prominence in feedback and a responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for either a linear or tactile typing experience, as well as your preference for sound and feel characteristics.
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