Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Dustproof Green, a clicky switch, and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch. The Dustproof Green is best known for its durable design that prevents dust buildup, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is celebrated for its unique sound profile that combines a thuddy and punchy sound with a moderate level of tactility for a satisfying typing experience. While the Dustproof Green offers a classic clicky feel, the Viola Tricolor provides a more balanced sensation that strikes the perfect equilibrium between tactility and user comfort. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material indicate that both switches may produce similar sound characteristics and responses when typing.
However, the housing materials differ in the bottom housing construction. The Dustproof Green uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a similar effect of absorbing sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite the differences in the bottom housing materials, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
It is important to note that the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch will have a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the characteristics of each housing material in the Outemu Dustproof Green and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The actuation force of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is 65 grams, making it relatively heavy compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Green is 80 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience, while the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly lighter in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Viola Tricolor, while those looking for a more substantial feel may opt for the Dustproof Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Dustproof Green offering a heavier feel and the Viola Tricolor providing a slightly lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Green. The 0.2 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. Players who prefer a faster response time may opt for the Viola Tricolor, while those who prefer a deeper keystroke may lean towards the Dustproof Green. Ultimately, both switches offer a decent travel distance that caters to different preferences, providing a satisfying 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 Outemu Dustproof Green comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct differences in both sound and feel. The Dustproof Green switch is known for its None sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor is characterized by a thuddy and punchy sound that adds character to typing. The Viola Tricolor offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Green switch does not have any specific descriptor mentioned. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet still noticeable. This tactile feedback offers a satisfying typing experience with moderate to firm actuation force and a reactive feel.
Overall, if you prefer a clicky switch with a unique sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Green may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy a tactile switch with a pronounced feedback and invigorating feel, the Haimu Viola Tricolor could be the perfect choice for you. Remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your keyboard and keycap choices, so don't hesitate to experiment to find the perfect match for your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a clicky switch with no specific standout features, the Dustproof Green may be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, a unique thuddy and punchy sound profile, and pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, the Viola Tricolor would be a great fit for your typing experience. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to help guide your decision and choose the one that best suits your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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