The bridge of the viola is somewhat larger and heavier than that of the violin. It must carry the weight and power of the heavier strings. The bridge feet of the viola are farther apart than those of the violin, and they are set at an angle of about 75 degrees to the belly. The viola bridge is taller and thicker than the violin bridge, and it has a wider string spacing. The arching of the viola bridge is also slightly different from the arching of the violin bridge, being higher and more rounded.
Summary:
| Feature | Violin | Viola |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Shorter | Taller |
| Thickness | Thinner | Thicker |
| String spacing | Narrower | Wider |
| Arched top | Rounder | Higher, less rounded |
| Distance between feet | 2.5-2.7 cm | 3-3.2 cm |
| Angle between feet and body | 73 degrees | 75 degrees |