Haimu Viola Tricolor vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique experiences are the Haimu Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch. The Viola Tricolor is known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. With a pronounced tactility, it provides satisfying feedback without becoming overly tactile. In contrast, the WS Onion offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. With a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, it ensures a crisp and responsive feel. While the Viola Tricolor is categorized as accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched, the WS Onion is known for its neutral, buttery, and polished characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice provides both switches with similar benefits. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the switch design.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Viola Tricolor incorporates nylon, while the WS Onion also utilizes nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers its own unique characteristics. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, a duller and rounder sound is produced, providing a different auditory experience compared to polycarbonate.
It is important to note that the split between the top and bottom housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on either the Viola Tricolor or the WS Onion, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, while the housing materials of both switches share similarities, their arrangement allows for nuanced differences in the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, one can observe both similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. In terms of actuation force, the specific measurement is unavailable for both switches. This suggests that the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy pressure required to fully press the keys. This similarity implies that both switches would provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully depress the switches.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer lighter switches, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This lighter weight is beneficial for individuals using the keyboard for work purposes or engaging in extended gaming sessions. However, others may desire a heavier actuation force to enhance the typing experience, making it feel more substantial. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces are preferable. It is worth noting that both the Viola Tricolor and WS Onion switches have similar bottom out forces of 63.5 grams, suggesting that they provide a comparable level of typing feedback in terms of heaviness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation force and how substantial of a typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we can see that the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm while the WS Onion has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the WS Onion has the longer travel distance between the two switches. The Viola Tricolor falls on the shorter end of the spectrum with its 3.8 mm travel distance. It is important to note that both options fall within the range of typical travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most traditional. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may lean towards the Viola Tricolor due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress may find the WS Onion to be a better fit with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 is best known for its bassy and low-pitched profile. These switches deliver a deep and rich sound, reminiscent of bass tones, during key presses. The sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, offering a touch of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile. It provides a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and regardless of whether you are using them at home or at work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it is recommended to consider these factors as well.
Moving on to feel, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. These switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. They offer a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is described as buttery and polished in terms of feel. The switches have a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Their polished finish and reduced friction contribute to a sleek and refined typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, if you are looking for a switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile, and a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be an excellent choice. Likewise, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile, moderate actuation force requirement, and a smooth and fluid keystroke feel, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch would be a great option. Both switches offer their unique qualities and deliver satisfying typing experiences. It's important to consider your personal preferences and use case when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a touch of character and a sharp sensation without being overly tactile, then the Haimu Viola Tricolor is the switch for you. These switches offer a thuddy and punchy sound profile, described as bassy and low-pitched, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. Additionally, the Viola Tricolor provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a buttery smooth keystroke feel, then the Wuque Studio WS Onion is the switch to consider. These switches are known for their crisp and responsive feel, offering a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The WS Onion provides a seamless and effortless typing experience, described as buttery and polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Viola Tricolor and the WS Onion depends on your personal preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp sensation and a bassy sound profile, go for the Viola Tricolor. If you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and fluid keystroke feel, choose the WS Onion. Consider your typing preferences and desired typing experience when making the final decision.
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