Haimu Viola Tricolor vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The Viola Tricolor switches are best known for their thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. They offer a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without becoming overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque are designed to elevate your office and work experience. These linear switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, reducing switch noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Unlike traditional silent switches, they forgo the use of silicone dampeners, offering a distinct typing experience that is both tranquil and precise. Both switches offer unique advantages, 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
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Viola Tricolor and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in terms of their composition 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 stiffness, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the top housings of these switches provide distinct sound characteristics.
Both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housings. As nylon is a classic switch housing material, it elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, despite other differences in their housing materials, the Viola Tricolor and the WS Silent Linear switches offer a similar sound experience when it comes to their bottom housings.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of different housing materials affects different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the tactile feedback when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By having distinct top and bottom housings made of polycarbonate and nylon respectively, the Viola Tricolor and the WS Silent Linear switches offer users a nuanced and varied typing experience, catering to individual preferences and desired sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is worth noting that both switches have an actuation force of unavailable grams. This means that we do not have information on the exact force required to trigger a keystroke for either switch. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
In terms of weight, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing needs. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This can be especially beneficial for those who use their keyboards frequently at work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who enjoy a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In conclusion, both the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have similar bottom out forces, although the actuation force is unavailable for both. Therefore, if one desires a medium-heavy switch and is flexible with the actuation force, they would yield similar results with either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is 3.8 mm, while the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is 3.5 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. The Viola Tricolor offers a slightly longer travel distance than the WS Silent Linear.
Shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers as they provide faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Viola Tricolor would be a good choice with its 3.8 mm travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the WS Silent Linear with its 3.5 mm travel distance might be more suitable. Overall, both switches offer shorter travel distances, but the Viola Tricolor provides a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Silent Linear.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
The Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is best known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience. These switches offer a pronounced tactility, providing satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque is designed to reduce switch noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Unlike traditional silent switches, it doesn't use silicone dampeners, providing a distinct and cushion-free typing experience that blends tranquility and precision.
In terms of sound, the Viola Tricolor is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound during key presses will have a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It offers a mellow, bass-heavy sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch has a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Overall, if you prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound, the Viola Tricolor would be a great choice. If you prefer a quieter and more subdued sound, the WS Silent Linear is the way to go.
When it comes to feel, the Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented and invigorating. It provides a medium level of tactility, offering a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. With a moderate to firm actuation force, these switches create an immersive typing sensation that is snappy and reactive. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It stands in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. If you prefer a switch with prominent feedback and a more immersive typing sensation, the Viola Tricolor would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a gentler and more approachable typing experience, the WS Silent Linear is a great option.
In conclusion, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The Viola Tricolor provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile with pronounced tactility, while the WS Silent Linear switch offers a more neutral, muted and subdued sound. In terms of feel, the Viola Tricolor is accented and invigorating, providing immersive feedback and a sharp sensation, while the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and cater to different preferences. Therefore, based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a distinct sound profile and a balance of tactility, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be an excellent choice. These switches offer a thuddy and punchy sound, with a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. They strike a perfect balance, offering a sharp sensation that enhances your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch would be a great option. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, reducing switch noise while maintaining unparalleled responsiveness. Unlike traditional silent switches, they provide a distinct typing experience that eliminates the cushioned sensation, ensuring tranquility and precision.
In terms of sound, the Viola Tricolor switches offer a bassy and low-pitched tone, adding depth and richness to your typing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches provide a neutral, muted, and subdued sound that minimizes noise and offers a more subtle sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Viola Tricolor switches are described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile feel with prominent feedback and a snappy typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most and stands in a safe, middle-ground zone.
Ultimately, your choice between the Viola Tricolor and the WS Silent Linear switches will depend on your priorities and preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a unique sound profile and enhanced tactility or a quieter typing experience with exceptional responsiveness. Both switches offer their own advantages, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
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