Haimu Viola Tricolor vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary widely based on the desired typing experience. The Haimu Viola Tricolor, with its tactile feedback, offers a satisfying thuddy sound profile that brings a character-rich ambiance to your typing sessions. Its pronounced tactility strikes a remarkable balance, providing just enough feedback without becoming overwhelming, making it suitable for both typing aficionados and gamers who appreciate responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl presents a smooth, linear experience thanks to its innovative ball-bearing design, which significantly reduces friction during keystrokes. This results in a silky-smooth typing experience paired with a medium-high pitched sound, appealing to those who seek fluidity and minimal resistance as they type. While the Viola Tricolor caters to those who crave tactile engagement, the WS Pearl stands out for users wanting a seamless typing journey. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl exhibit notable differences, particularly in their top housings. The Viola Tricolor utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer composition that contributes to a sharper, high-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This choice enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting effects, allowing for an aesthetically pleasing combination of light and sound. In contrast, the WS Pearl employs a nylon top housing that produces a noticeably deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound and provides a warmer auditory experience, creating a rounder tactile response upon key release.
Comparatively, both switches feature nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This consistency means that users will experience a deeper, fuller sound profile regardless of which switch they are using when it comes to bottoming out. The nylon's ability to absorb sound provides a cushion-like effect, creating a more muted but satisfying keystroke feedback. This is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a quieter typing experience, as both switches will produce a similar bottom-out sound, giving them a familiar feel even when switching between the two models. Thus, while the sound profiles differ in terms of their top housings, the underlying characteristics in the bottom housing provide continuity.
In essence, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Viola Tricolor results in a switch that emphasizes clarity and light diffusion, while the WS Pearl's nylon top creates a fuller, warmer auditory profile. The divergence in their top housings leads to distinct sound experiences during typing, but both share the same deeper sound signature due to their nylon bottom housings. Consequently, while users may note differences in their typing acoustics and sensations, the foundational characteristics of nylon ensure a coherent experience throughout their use. Both switches appeal to different preferences, with the Viola Tricolor leaning towards clarity and aesthetics while the WS Pearl caters to those who value depth and warmth in sound.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy, but does not have a specified actuation force. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, which classifies it as medium. Because the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unknown, we cannot directly compare it to the WS Pearl's actuation force; however, given the heavier bottom out force of the Viola Tricolor, it is likely to provide a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who prefer a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the lighter feel of the WS Pearl is likely more ergonomic for extended typing or gaming sessions, making it a better choice for those seeking comfort. Overall, the WS Pearl is the lighter option, whereas the Viola Tricolor presents a heavier experience.
Travel distance
The Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Viola Tricolor the longer option, providing a deeper press that some users may find more satisfying and substantial. In contrast, the WS Pearl's shorter travel distance could cater to gamers who prioritize quick and responsive key presses for faster reaction times. Although both switches are relatively close in their travel distances, the difference might influence user preference, depending on whether one favors a more pronounced feel or a quicker response. Thus, if you lean towards a tactile feedback with more depth, the Viola Tricolor would be the suitable choice, while those seeking rapid actuation may prefer the WS Pearl.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch presents a distinctive thuddy and punchy sound profile that resonates with a deeper, bass-driven ambiance. This switch carries a bassy and low-pitched characteristic that adds richness to each keystroke, ensuring a satisfying auditory feedback that is deep without being overwhelming. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch operates at a medium-high pitch, but lacks specific descriptive qualities regarding its sound profile. While it does provide a smoother typing experience, it is evident that its sound is comparatively light and airy, potentially appealing to those who prefer subtler audio cues while typing. The acoustic experience will ultimately vary based on the keyboard and keycap selections used alongside these switches.
In terms of tactile feedback, the Viola Tricolor offers an invigorating and accented feel that jumps out with a pronounced tactile sensation. This switch strikes a balance between pronounced feedback and comfort, avoiding the extremes of being either too tactile or too soft. Users can expect a firm actuation force that engages and stimulates the typing experience effectively. On the other hand, the WS Pearl linear switch boasts an incredibly smooth action, thanks to its innovative use of ball-bearings that minimize friction, creating a surreal typing experience devoid of tactile bumps. While the Pearl may lack the tactile feedback that the Viola provides, it offers a gliding, effortless feel that appeals to users who prefer a more fluid keypress.
In conclusion, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch each cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Viola Tricolor excels with a rich auditory and tactile experience, offering deep sounds and invigorating feedback. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl promises a smooth and refined typing experience with its unique ball-bearing mechanism and higher-pitched sound profile. Depending on your typing preferences—whether you enjoy pronounced tactility and resonance or seamless fluidity—you can select the switch that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a tactile experience that offers a satisfying thud and a unique, deeper sound that adds character to your keystrokes, the Viola Tricolor would be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force and pronounced tactility create an invigorating feedback loop that can make both typing and gaming feel more immersive. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid experience with less tactile interruption and a medium actuation force, the WS Pearl linear switch would be a better fit. These switches utilize ball-bearings for friction reduction, resulting in an almost ethereal gliding feel that makes rapid typing effortless. With these considerations in mind, you can select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and sound preferences, ensuring a more enjoyable keyboard experience.
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