HMX Blue Topaz vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two excellent options, both offering unique features and benefits. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch that stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a seamless typing experience. With its glittery housing and clacky sound signature, it brings both visual and auditory delight to the table. On the other hand, the Roselle, also a linear switch, is praised for its inherent smoothness and ethereal sensation while typing. It produces a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Roselle falls under categories such as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. These general pointers can help you decide on which switch may suit your 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HC Studio Roselle offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Roselle's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound experience. Despite the differences in sound profile, both switches provide users with high-quality housing materials that enhance their typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Blue Topaz and the Roselle contribute to the overall sound profile in different ways. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Roselle also creates a deep and muted sound profile. While the bottom housing influences the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their housing materials, catering to users' preferences for sound profile.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz and HC Studio Roselle showcase how different housing materials can result in distinct sound profiles for mechanical switches. While the Blue Topaz utilizes polycarbonate and nylon to create a sharper and fuller sound, the Roselle combines POM in both top and bottom housings for a deep and muted sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide users with high-quality housing materials that enhance the typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both the Blue Topaz and Roselle offer unique options to cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Topaz would be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Roselle may provide a more satisfying experience with its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference in regards to typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. The Blue Topaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys compared to the Roselle. However, the difference of 0.3 mm may not be significant enough to notice a substantial variation in feel between the two switches. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, catering to individuals looking for a faster typing response without sacrificing comfort.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound that enhances the typing experience with a crisp and percussive tone. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, creating a deeper and richer tone that adds a touch of elegance to each keystroke. While the Blue Topaz excels in delivering a distinctively clacky sound, the Roselle stands out with its subtle and low-pitched sound that embodies a sense of sophistication during typing sessions.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate, resulting in a light and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch boasts a frictionless feel, providing an extremely smooth and fluid typing experience that minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Roselle is described as having a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that accommodates a wider range of users with its approachable qualities.
Overall, while the Blue Topaz and the Roselle linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a premium typing experience with their respective qualities. Whether you prefer the clacky sound and lightweight feel of the Blue Topaz or the low-pitched sound and frictionless feel of the Roselle, you can expect a high level of performance and satisfaction from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and aesthetic preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force and sound signature. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a clacky sound profile, the Blue Topaz might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher actuation force and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle could suit your preferences better. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Blue Topaz emphasizing smoothness and lightness, while the Roselle delivers a frictionless feel and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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