Dareu Aqua vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Roselle offers an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience, with a subtle, low-pitched sound profile. While the Aqua is easy-to-press and feathery, the Roselle is characterized by its bassy feel and neutral touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the HC Studio Roselle, one noticeable difference is in their top housings. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This is particularly beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Roselle's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience. Despite these differences, both materials are chosen for their ability to influence the overall sound profile of the switch.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Aqua utilizes a nylon material that enhances the sound by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is achieved through nylon's ability to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound. Similarly, the Roselle's POM bottom housing contributes to the switch's overall sound by producing a deep and muted profile. Both switches prioritize sound quality, with the choice of material affecting the tone and resonance produced when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for these switches plays a significant role in the sound experience they provide. While the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound, the Roselle's POM top housing offers a deeper, more muted sound profile. Likewise, the nylon and POM bottom housings further enhance the switches' sound characteristics, with nylon providing a fuller sound and POM offering a unique auditory experience. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and offer a distinct typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it becomes evident that the Aqua is a lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Roselle is heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Aqua is not specified, while the Roselle has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Aqua, as it requires less force to actuate a keystroke. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Roselle with its higher actuation force. Both switches offer unique qualities, with the Aqua being lighter and the Roselle being heavier, providing users with options based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Aqua offers a more traditional depth, providing a bit more cushion when typing or gaming, while the Roselle offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may lean towards the Roselle for its faster responsiveness, while those who prefer a more tactile feel may prefer the Aqua. Both switches offer quality performance, but the Aqua provides a slightly longer travel distance for those who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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
The Dareu Aqua linear switches are best known for their signature chirpy and clacky sound profile, which sets them apart from other switches in the market. The 37g actuation force provides a light and effortless typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer a smooth and ethereally wispy feel, with a subtle low-pitched sound signature that adds to the typing experience. The Roselle switches are appreciated for their smoothness and gentle typing experience, making them a popular choice for users looking for a frictionless and mild typing feel.
When it comes to sound, the Aqua switches provide a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, adding a cheerful and percussive element to typing sessions. In contrast, the Roselle switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound that creates a richer and deeper audio experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the chirpy and clacky sounds of the Aqua switches or the bassy and low-pitched sounds of the Roselle switches.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switches are known for their easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light and gentle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Roselle switches provide a frictionless and mild typing feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Aqua switches focusing on light actuation force and the Roselle switches emphasizing smoothness and fluid travel.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switches and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aqua switches provide a chirpy and clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Roselle switches deliver a bassy and low-pitched sound with a frictionless and mild typing experience. Depending on whether users prioritize sound uniqueness or smoothness in typing feel, they can choose between the two switches for a tailored mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Dareu Aqua if you prefer a super light 37g actuation force for a chirpy and clacky sound signature. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch and a unique typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the HC Studio Roselle if you appreciate an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a bottom out force of 52 grams. The Roselle offers a subtle, low-pitched sound that is bassy and neutral, catering to a different auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience based on your individual preferences.
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