Kailh Box Navy vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and HC Studio Roselle offer unique experiences for users. The Box Navy is perfect for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and the satisfying sound and tactility of a clicky switch. Reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, the Box Navy is sharp, resonant, invigorating, crunchy, and stiff. On the other hand, the Roselle is ideal for users who prioritize smoothness in their typing experience. The inherent material blend of the Roselle delivers a remarkably smooth and ethereal sensation, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. Categorized as bassy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the Roselle offers a different kind of typing experience compared to the Box Navy. 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
90g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the HC Studio Roselle, we see a clear difference in their top housings. The Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Roselle features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have distinct characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy may be more suitable for users looking for a brighter and more resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Roselle offers a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Box Navy incorporates a nylon bottom housing known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Roselle also features a POM bottom housing that contributes to a pleasing and unique deep sound. While both bottom housings share similarities in creating a deeper sound, the slight differences in material properties may lead to variations in the overall sound profile and typing experience between the two switches.
In summary, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the HC Studio Roselle ultimately comes down to individual preference in sound and feel. The use of polycarbonate and nylon in the Box Navy provides a sharper and fuller sound, while the POM material in the Roselle leans towards a deeper and more muted profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. Whether you prefer a brighter, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches deliver distinct qualities that cater to varying preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Box Navy is also heavier at 90 grams, whereas the Roselle is lighter at 52 grams. This means that the Box Navy provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a tactile response. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue from heavy key presses is a concern. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, as well as typing style and intended usage.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will get a similar result in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance allows for a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. Overall, both switches offer a relatively standard travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile feedback for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is best described as resonant and crunchy, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. The Roselle's sound experience is deep, rich, and mellow, making it a more subdued option compared to the dramatic clickiness of the Box Navy.
When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback that requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. Each keypress on the Box Navy switch delivers a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a frictionless and mild typing experience, with an impossibly smooth and wispy sensation that minimizes resistance when pressing the keys. The Roselle switch provides a gentler typing experience that falls in the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is ideal for those who prefer a heavy typing experience with a crisp and sharp sound signature, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch caters to individuals seeking a smoother and gentler typing experience with a rich, mellow sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you opt for the clickiness of the Box Navy or the smoothness of the Roselle, you're guaranteed a satisfying typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a loud and crisp clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches are the way to go. They offer a vintage feel reminiscent of classic buckling spring keyboards from the past. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound profile, the HC Studio Roselle linear switches are a great choice. Their frictionless feel and mild characteristics make them suitable for a wide range of typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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