Gateron Beer vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact your typing experience. Two popular options on the market are the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, and the HC Studio Roselle, a linear switch. The Gateron Beer stands out with its mesmerizing translucent green design, evoking the allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle. It offers a refreshingly lightweight feel with a stepped tactility, providing a subtler tactile feedback than traditional switches. The characteristic clacky sound signature adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle boasts an incredibly smooth and wispy sensation, thanks to its unique material blend. The switch offers a low-pitched sound signature and is categorized as 'bassy', 'frictionless', and 'mild'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, catering to different preferences. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the HC Studio Roselle, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Roselle's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. While the materials may differ, the end result is similar in that both provide a distinctive auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Beer utilizes polycarbonate, which contributes to the sharper, crisper sound profile characteristic of this material. Similarly, the Roselle opts for POM bottom housing, offering a more muted sound on the bottom-out. These differences in material choice for the bottom housing result in a varied tactile experience when typing on each switch. Despite the contrasting sound profiles, both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience, albeit with different approaches through their chosen housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the HC Studio Roselle comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials influences the typing experience in different ways, with each switch offering its own distinct characteristics. Whether you prefer the sharp and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Beer or the deeper, more muted sound of POM in the Roselle, both switches promise a premium feel and sound that can elevate your typing experience to new heights.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. When it comes to bottom out force, the Beer requires 50 grams of force while the Roselle requires 52 grams, indicating that the Roselle is also slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall on the lighter end of the force spectrum, making them suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. However, those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Roselle for a slightly more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Roselle has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Beer. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress sensation, the Roselle may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing a balance between speed and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Beer tactile switch offers a distinctively clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch produces a subtle and low-pitched sound, creating a bassy and mellow tone during key presses. If you prefer a more crisp and bright sound, the Beer switch would be the preferred choice, while the Roselle switch provides a deeper and richer sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also features a stepped tactility, offering a subtle feel with two distinct stages during key presses. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is described as frictionless and impossibly smooth, delivering an ethereally wispy typing experience. The Roselle switch falls into the category of a mild switch, providing a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics.
Overall, if you prioritize a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bassy and low-pitched sound along with a frictionless and mild typing feel, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch would be the better option. Keep in mind that the specific sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used. Nonetheless, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a unique, clacky sound with stepped tactility, then the Gateron Beer switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and value a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, then the HC Studio Roselle switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for key feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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