Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct features that set them apart. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a heavier typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its exceptionally smooth and wispy sensation, creating a unique typing experience that is accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch, the Roselle's inherent material blend ensures a frictionless and neutral typing experience. 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
70g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HC Studio Roselle both feature POM housing materials, but their sound profiles are described differently. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, giving it a clacky feel. In contrast, the Roselle's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience. While both switches use POM material for the top housing, the resulting sound profiles are distinct, catering to different preferences.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Roselle utilize POM material. This consistent use of POM material in the bottom housing contributes to a relatively more muted and deeper sound profile for both switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound when a key is fully pressed. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, each switch maintains its unique sound characteristics, showcasing how housing materials can affect the overall typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and HC Studio Roselle switches share similarities in their bottom housing material, both utilizing POM to create a deep and muted sound profile. However, their top housing materials differ, with the G Pro 3.0 Black featuring a more pointed and high-pitched sound, while the Roselle offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. These differences highlight how housing materials can influence the sound and feel of a keyboard switch, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier than the Roselle. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Roselle, as the lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users seeking a more tactile and substantial typing feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black for its heavier force requirements. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the difference in travel distance may impact the typing experience for some users. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Roselle with its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more traditional typing feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a clacky typing experience with a medium-high pitch, providing a crisp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switch produces a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that is smooth and ethereally wispy, creating a more subdued typing experience. The Roselle switch also offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, giving it a richer sound profile compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black. Depending on personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for those who enjoy a sharper, clacky sound, while the Roselle is better suited for those who prefer a smoother and more understated typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a creamy and silky typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch boasts a frictionless and mild typing experience that minimizes resistance and friction when pressing the keys, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a more substantial and creamy feel, while the Roselle offers a lighter and more frictionless typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and HC Studio Roselle switches provide subjective qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in delivering a clacky typing sound with a creamy and silky feel, the Roselle offers a smoother and more subdued sound with a frictionless and mild typing sensation. Both switches are high-quality linear options that can enhance your typing experience, with the decision between them ultimately depending on whether you prefer a sharper, more substantial feel or a smoother, more light-touch experience. Either way, you can expect a premium typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the G Pro 3.0 Black if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and medium-high pitch sound. The G Pro 3.0 Black is also a great choice if you enjoy a clacky and somewhat subdued sound. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch may be more suitable for you if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and an impossibly smooth typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound. The Roselle switch is ideal for those who appreciate a bassy and mellow sound profile, as well as a frictionless and mild typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.