Gateron Aliaz vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and HC Studio Roselle stand out as popular choices with unique features. The Aliaz switch is a tactile option tailored for quiet environments like the office, offering a medium-heavy weight for a substantial feel to each keystroke. Ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, the Aliaz switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Roselle switch by HC Studio is a linear switch renowned for its incredibly smooth sensation, attributed to its unique material blend. With a subtle, low-pitched sound signature while typing, the Roselle switch is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Aliaz and HC Studio Roselle switches have distinct differences. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Roselle has a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its sharp sound profile, while the Roselle's POM bottom housing emphasizes a unique and pleasing sound on the deeper end of the spectrum.
The contrasting housing materials of the Aliaz and Roselle switches offer different sound experiences when typing. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Aliaz gives it a sharp and clear sound profile, making key presses more defined and impactful. In contrast, the POM top and bottom housing of the Roselle produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a distinct typing experience. These differences in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, with the Aliaz offering a crisper sound and the Roselle providing a more subdued typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aliaz and Roselle switches have different materials and sound profiles, they ultimately impact the overall typing experience in a similar manner. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the sound and feel when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when letting go of a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings results in a unique typing experience for both the Aliaz and Roselle switches.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. The Aliaz switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a more robust typing experience, while the Roselle switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing comfort and efficiency.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Aliaz provides a slightly deeper keypress, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for a quicker response time. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall keypress feel and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound signature, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. While the Aliaz focuses on minimizing noise for quiet environments like the office, the Roselle offers a more distinctive and resonant sound that adds to the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound profile.
Turning to the feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is recognized for its silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and a refined finish that enhances the overall feel of typing. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch boasts a frictionless and mild typing experience, providing an extremely smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and approachable typing experience, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and the Roselle emphasizing a gentle feel. Choosing between the two will depend on individual preference for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz excels in providing a muted and substantial typing experience with a focus on smoothness and a quiet operation, making it ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out with its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, combined with a frictionless and mild typing feel that emphasizes effortless key presses. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired. Both switches offer high-quality performance and are sure to provide satisfying results based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch versus the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences and typing environment. If you value a substantial feel and pronounced typing feedback in a quiet setting, the Aliaz switch with its medium-heavy weight could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience with a subtle low-pitched sound, the Roselle switch may be more fitting for your needs. Ultimately, the Aliaz switch offers a silky and polished feel, while the Roselle switch provides a frictionless and mild typing experience. Consider these factors when making your decision to ensure you select the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences.
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