Outemu Crystal vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique features that appeal to different preferences. The Crystal switch is praised for its linear typing experience, with a medium-light weight and elastic feel that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Roselle switch stands out for its incredibly smooth and frictionless sensation, achieved without the need for additional lubrication. While the Crystal switch boasts a neutral sound profile, the Roselle switch produces a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to specific typing 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the HC Studio Roselle switches show distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Roselle's POM top and bottom housing produce a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter keyboard. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing of the Crystal allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard, while the Roselle's POM housing offers a sleek and understated look.
Despite the differences in sound and aesthetics, both the Outemu Crystal and the HC Studio Roselle switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate material of the Crystal provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer POM material of the Roselle creates a unique and pleasing sound. Both switches are well-suited for various preferences, whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and more muted typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing in the Crystal and the sleek design of the POM housing in the Roselle offer options for those looking to customize their keyboard with different lighting effects or a minimalist look.
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the HC Studio Roselle switches, it is evident that the choice of material can significantly impact the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Crystal's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound, the Roselle's POM housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch can also affect the feel and sound when typing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release. Overall, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences and provide an enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch have similar actuation forces, with both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Crystal has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams. This means that the Crystal switch is slightly heavier overall, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Roselle switch may be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a medium-light feel overall, making them suitable for a wide range of preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.6 mm travel distance of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch. The slightly longer travel distance of the Crystal switch may provide a more satisfying and substantial key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Roselle switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster input speeds. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and the feel of the key press. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for a quicker response, the Roselle switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and substance in your keystrokes, the Outemu Crystal switch could be the ideal choice. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer quality performance for their respective travel distances.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched typing experience, setting it apart with a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch provides a more bassy, low-pitched sound profile, creating a deeper and richer tone during key presses. If you prefer a neutral sound profile, both switches offer a moderate option suitable for various purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Whereas the HC Studio Roselle switch is known for its frictionless and mild feel, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with fluid key travel. Both switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and HC Studio Roselle linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished feel, the Crystal switch is a great option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bassy, low-pitched sound with a frictionless and mild feel, the Roselle switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel within the linear switch category.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a unique, linear typing experience and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation, along with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, then the HC Studio Roselle linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a medium-light bottom out force and chirpy, high-pitched sound with a polished feel (Crystal) or a slightly lighter bottom out force with a bassy, low-pitched or neutral sound and a frictionless, mild feel (Roselle). Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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