Gateron Type S vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. On one hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a weightier keystroke at 65g bottom-out, providing a satisfyingly solid feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Its sound signature is neutral yet deep, creating a pleasant acoustic experience categorized as neutral and subdued. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a distinct thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing. With pronounced tactility, it strikes a perfect balance between feedback and usability, categorized as accented, bassy, invigorating, low-pitched. Both switches have their unique attributes that cater to different preferences, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Type S and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, one can see a clear difference in the types of plastic used. The Type S utilizes a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor employs a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience and the sound produced by the switch.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, the differences in their top housing materials set them apart. The Type S's nylon bottom housing continues to contribute to the switch's overall sound profile, ensuring a consistent sound experience throughout typing. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing adds a unique element to the sound produced, bringing a clearer and more resonant quality to the switch's typing experience. This variation highlights how the combination of different housing materials can result in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Type S and the Haimu Viola Tricolor ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The Type S's nylon housing provides a softer, more rounded sound, while the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, crisper typing experience. Both switches showcase how housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, demonstrating how even small differences in material can create significant variations in typing experiences. Whether one prefers a duller, rounder sound or a clearer, sharper sound, these housing materials allow for customization and a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is evident that the Type S is the lighter option with an actuation force of 55 grams. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Type S has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a good balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. The actuation force of the Viola Tricolor is not specified, so it is assumed to be similar to the bottom out force, leading to consistent results in terms of force requirements for keypresses. Ultimately, the choice between the Type S and Viola Tricolor will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Type S the longer of the two switches. The 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper keystroke feel, which may be preferable for some users looking for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's slightly shorter 3.8 mm travel distance offers a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking speed and agility in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, catering to the individual preferences of users seeking either a deeper or shallower 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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 Gateron Type S offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, suitable for various purposes without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds character to each keystroke without being overwhelming. The Type S leans towards a more balanced and deep acoustic experience, while the Viola Tricolor delivers a punchier and more distinct sound that some users may find more engaging.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Type S does not have specific descriptors provided, indicating that its tactile feel may be more standard or not as pronounced as some other switches. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor is described as having an accented and invigorating tactile feel, offering a moderate amount of feedback without being overly tactile. This means that the Viola Tricolor switch provides a satisfying tactile experience without being too forceful or distracting during typing.
Overall, if you prefer a linear switch with a balanced and deep sound profile, as well as a standard tactile feel, the Gateron Type S may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a more unique and punchy sound, along with a tactile feel that is prominent but not overwhelming, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch would be a great option. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the perfect switch, so trying out different options to see what suits you best is always recommended.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch with a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet deeper sound profile, the Gateron Type S linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile, along with a satisfying feedback that is not overly tactile, then the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the feel and sound you want out of your mechanical keyboard switches.
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