KTT Strawberry vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT Strawberry 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 are the KTT Strawberry and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Strawberry switch is best known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With its attractive pink and clear housings, these delectable Strawberries offer a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds a touch of character to your typing experience. It offers an accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched sensation without overwhelming the user. Both switches have their own unique qualities, providing a satisfying feedback during typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Strawberry and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, are quite similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Strawberry and the Viola Tricolor will yield similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when examining the bottom housings, the Strawberry and the Viola Tricolor differ. The Strawberry employs polycarbonate in its bottom housing, which again leads to a sharper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's bottom housing is made of nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear bottom-out sound and feel, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing offers a dulled and rounder sound experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Strawberry and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizing clear bottom-out sound and feel, and the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing creating a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the desired sound experience and aesthetic preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Strawberry switch is 43 grams, while the Viola Tricolor switch does not have an available value for its actuation force. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force. The bottom out force of the Strawberry switch is 62 grams, while the Viola Tricolor switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight is important as it can affect typing experience and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Strawberry switch as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is especially beneficial for those using the keyboard extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing experience may prefer the Viola Tricolor switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force.
While the actuation force of the Viola Tricolor switch is not provided, we can anticipate that it may be similar to the Strawberry switch due to their categorization as medium actuation force switches. However, the Viola Tricolor's bottom out force being slightly heavier than the Strawberry switch gives it a slightly more robust feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing experience and desired level of force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we can see that the Strawberry has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Strawberry being slightly longer. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Viola Tricolor with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, in which case the Strawberry with its longer travel distance may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press. Overall, while the Strawberry and the Viola Tricolor have different travel distances, they both offer unique experiences and can cater to different preferences.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. This gives it a smooth and relaxing sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during typing. It also has a low-pitched tone, similar to the Strawberry switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the Strawberry switch provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. It offers a fluid and effortless keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating. This implies that the Viola Tricolor switch offers a moderate to firm actuation force, pronounced feedback, and a snappy and reactive feel. It provides a tactile typing sensation without being overly tactile or scratchy.
Based on the available information, the KTT Strawberry switch is best known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, low-pitched sound, and reliable performance. It offers a frictionless and silky typing experience with a polished finish. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is best known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile, pronounced tactility, and invigorating typing sensation. It strikes a balance between tactile feedback and smoothness. While they have different characteristics, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose between the smooth and reliable Strawberry or the invigorating and tactile Viola Tricolor switch to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. The Strawberry offers a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a comfortable actuation experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, giving it a medium-heavy tactile sensation.
For sound, the Strawberry is characterized by a low-pitched tone, which is more bass-heavy and mellow. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor produces a bassy sound, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Both switches provide a low-pitched tone, adding to the overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Strawberry is known for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished characteristics. These qualities ensure a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor features an accented tactility, providing a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming. This switch also offers an invigorating feel, with a snappy and reactive sensation.
Ultimately, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, smooth actuation, and low-pitched sound, the KTT Strawberry is the ideal choice for you. However, if you desire a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, pronounced feedback, and a bassy low-pitched sound, the Haimu Viola Tricolor is the better option. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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