Gateron Glory Yellow vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and HC Studio Roselle both stand out as exceptional linear options, each offering unique characteristics suited to different typists’ needs. The Gateron Glory Yellow is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and substantial travel distance, providing a more robust feel that many users appreciate for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle is crafted from a specialized material blend that delivers an incredibly smooth, almost ethereal typing experience accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound—a feature that enhances its appeal for those who value a quieter workspace. While the Glory Yellow caters to individuals looking for a more pronounced and heavier feedback, the Roselle shines in its frictionless and mild operation, making it suitable for long typing sessions without fatigue. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HC Studio Roselle, a key distinction lies in the types of plastics used in their construction. The Glory Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustics during typing. In contrast, the Roselle opts for POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is celebrated for creating a unique and pleasing sound, characterized by a similar depth but with a distinct muted quality. This variance in material not only affects the auditory experience but also impacts the tactile feedback experienced by users.
While both switches aim for a deeper sound profile, their construction materials yield different results in the typing experience. The nylon in the Glory Yellow is designed to maximize sound absorption, making each keystroke feel heavier and more substantial. This leads to a richer acoustic output when the key is engaged, as well as a softened sound during actuation. Conversely, the POM housings of the Roselle provide a different tactile sensation—while still offering a deep sound, the sound produced is more contained and less resonant than its nylon counterpart. This results in a typing experience that feels distinctly refined, offering users a nuanced sound without sacrificing the fullness expected from a mechanical switch.
In essence, while the Gateron Glory Yellow and HC Studio Roselle both strive for a deep and satisfying sound experience, they do so through the use of different materials that yield contrasting auditory results. Users can expect a richly satisfying typing sensation with the Glory Yellow due to its nylon housing's sound absorption properties, whereas the Roselle's POM construction results in a slightly more muted, yet equally enjoyable experience. Although the switches do not utilize the same materials, the end results will still fall within a similar auditory realm, granting users the opportunity to enjoy a quality typing experience across both types if they appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Roselle's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter touch will find the Roselle more suitable, potentially making it more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unavailable, while the Roselle has a bottom out force of 52 grams classified as medium-light. This indicates that when fully pressed down, the Roselle offers a bit more resistance compared to the Glory Yellow, which lacks a specified bottom out force. Overall, users seeking a lighter feel for prolonged use may lean toward the HC Studio Roselle, while those who appreciate a slightly heavier switch with an unspecified bottom out force might opt for the Gateron Glory Yellow.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Gateron Glory Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Glory Yellow will provide a more pronounced depth when pressed, which can be preferred by users who enjoy a more tactile experience while typing or gaming. Conversely, the Roselle's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who seek a quicker response time, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers looking for speedy key presses. Ultimately, if you're after a more traditional feel with greater depth, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the suitable choice, whereas if you prefer a snappier response, the HC Studio Roselle may be more to your liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 Glory Yellow switch presents a neutral profile that provides a versatile sound experience suitable for various environments, making it appropriate for both beginners and advanced users alike. While the specifics of its sound are not detailed, its design generally leans towards a more balanced auditory experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switch features a distinctively low-pitched and bassy sound signature, which contributes to a deeper and richer auditory profile as you type. This combination of low frequencies and a neutral character allows for an engaging and pleasant typing acoustics that could be particularly satisfying for users who appreciate a warm sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow is celebrated for delivering a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, resulting in an enjoyable typing experience. Although the specific tactile characteristics are not fully detailed, the focus on smoothness indicates a user-friendly experience. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch stands out for its frictionless action, which provides an incredibly smooth and effortless keystroke, amplifying the lack of resistance to a near-effortless experience. Additionally, the Roselle switches offer a mild tactile experience, making them approachable for a wide range of users by presenting a balance that is neither too aggressive nor too muted.
In summary, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and HC Studio Roselle switches are favorable choices for linear switch enthusiasts, each bringing its unique qualities to the table. The Glory Yellow excels in offering a neutral sound and smooth keystroke that many users will find accommodating. In comparison, the Roselle distinguishes itself with its low-pitched, bassy sound and ethereal smoothness, making it ideal for those who prefer a fluid typing experience. Ultimately, both switches will cater to different preferences, but regardless, users can expect an enjoyable experience with either choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HC Studio Roselle linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer an exceptionally smooth keystroke with a more fluid travel, the Gateron Glory Yellow might be your best bet, particularly if you enjoy a lighter actuation feel that lends itself to rapid typing and gaming. However, if you favor a slightly more substantial feel in your key presses combined with a richer, low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle might be the better option for you. The Roselle's unique material blend ensures an incredibly smooth experience, while its medium-light bottom out force adds a touch of resistance that can enhance feedback during use. Both switches provide a delightful typing experience, but your specific context—whether you are inclined towards more rapid, effortless actions or seek a balanced tactile engagement with a more resonant sound—should guide your decision. Ultimately, take your preferences into account, and don’t hesitate to try both switches to find the one that resonates with you the most.
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