Haimu Viola Tricolor vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Haimu Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, a linear switch, two mechanical keyboard switches that bring unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Viola Tricolor is best known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character while still maintaining a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. Categorized as accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched, the Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance in its sensation. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches offer a mesmerizing visual effect, with their light-diffusing columns enhancing RGB visuals. These ultra-smooth linear switches have a distinct dry, airy, and wispy smoothness thanks to the UPE stem, providing a different feel compared to factory-lubed switches. Categorized as buttery, creamy, low-pitched, silky, subdued, and thocky, the WS Morandi switches strike a balance between form and function with their medium weight and slightly shortened total travel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in terms of their properties and resulting sound profiles. The Viola Tricolor features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials have their unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate allows for a brighter and more distinct sound compared to the POM.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Viola Tricolor utilizes a nylon material, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being softer and able to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creates a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the WS Morandi's POM bottom housing contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side, although more muted compared to the nylon counterpart. Therefore, while the specific sound characteristics may vary, both switch housings bring depth and resonance to the typing experience, with nylon providing a slightly fuller sound than POM.
Considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch, the Viola Tricolor and the WS Morandi will exhibit different qualities. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will be more influential, shaping the bottom-out sound and tactile feel. This means that the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and rounder bottom-out sound, while the WS Morandi's POM will add a slightly more muted depth. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of the Viola Tricolor will result in a sharper and crisper sound upon key release, while the POM top housing of the WS Morandi will provide a distinct but deeper sound. In this sense, the housing materials of both switches can produce comparable results in terms of sound profiles, albeit with subtle variations based on their specific properties.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Firstly, the actuation force of both switches is unknown, so it is hard to determine the exact comparison between the two. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Viola Tricolor being slightly heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the WS Morandi with 60 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. Lighter switches can reduce finger fatigue and make typing or gaming more comfortable over time. In this aspect, both switches can provide similar results as their actuation forces are unknown.
On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may appreciate the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Viola Tricolor switch, which offers a more tactile feedback and greater resistance.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of both switches are unknown, the Viola Tricolor displays a heavier bottom out force compared to the WS Morandi. The Viola Tricolor may be more suitable for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience, while the WS Morandi might appeal to those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch have different travel distances. The Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Morandi has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of the traditional range, both switches fall within the average travel distance of 4.0 mm. However, the Viola Tricolor falls on the longer end of the spectrum, while the WS Morandi is slightly shorter. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Morandi. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper and more substantial keypress experience may gravitate towards the Viola Tricolor with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile. It adds a touch of character to your typing experience with its lower frequency range and deeper, bass-heavy tone. The sound is described as both bassy and low-pitched, creating a rich and mellow sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch produces a slightly more muted sound profile. It is described as low-pitched, subdued, and thocky, meaning it offers a dampened, bass-heavy tone with a deep and satisfying sound. While the two switches have different sound profiles, both provide a unique and enjoyable auditory experience during typing.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a balanced and invigorating typing sensation. It provides pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, giving a prominent amount of feedback without overwhelming the user. This accented switch delivers a moderate to firm actuation force, making it snappy and reactive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. It features an ultra-smooth UPE stem that provides a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. This switch ensures a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, as if gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. While the Viola Tricolor offers an invigorating and pronounced tactile feel, the WS Morandi provides a smooth and luxurious keystroke experience.
Based on the available information, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Viola Tricolor provides a thuddy and punchy sound, along with an accented and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the WS Morandi produces a slightly more muted sound, with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel. However, it is important to note that the subjective experience of these switches may also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. It is recommended to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to find the most suitable option for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when making a decision between the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider.
If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a satisfying feedback, the Viola Tricolor is an excellent choice. It strikes a perfect balance with its pronounced tactility, providing a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. Additionally, it offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, adding to its robust feel.
On the other hand, if you value visual aesthetics and a smooth typing experience, the WS Morandi is a top contender. Its ultra-smooth linear design, enhanced by the UPE stem, offers a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. With a slightly shortened total travel and a long pole design, it achieves a harmonious balance between form and function. The WS Morandi also has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a comfortable typing experience.
In terms of sound, both switches share a low-pitched characteristic, delivering a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. However, the Viola Tricolor is also described as bassy, offering a deeper and richer sound profile, while the WS Morandi is slightly more subdued, producing a dampened and more subtle sound signature. If you prefer a thocky sound with deep and satisfying thuds, the Viola Tricolor may be the better choice for you.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Viola Tricolor is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium tactile experience with smooth and reactive feedback. On the other hand, the WS Morandi is often characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation with a high level of smoothness and minimal resistance.
Ultimately, your decision between the Viola Tricolor and the WS Morandi will come down to your personal preferences. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a touch of character, the Viola Tricolor is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value visual aesthetics and a smooth typing experience, the WS Morandi is an excellent choice. Consider your priorities in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force to make an informed decision that enhances your typing experience.
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