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Huano Grape Orange vs. HC Studio Roselle

An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the HC Studio Roselle both offer distinct advantages that can cater to different preferences. The Grape Orange switch is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, providing an incredibly effortless typing experience that is ideal for users who spend long hours typing. Its linear design ensures smooth key presses without any tactile bump, making it a favorite for those who prioritize speed and comfort. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle provides a unique typing atmosphere thanks to its inherent material blend, which delivers a remarkably smooth feel that is often likened to an ethereal touch. This switch adds a subtle, low-pitched sound signature to each keystroke, offering a sensory experience that can be both soothing and engaging. While the Grape Orange is perfect for those who seek a breezy typing experience, the Roselle appeals to users who appreciate a blend of smoothness and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

40g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

52g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 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

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 Huano Grape Orange and HC Studio Roselle switches utilize distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, leading to contrasting acoustic characteristics and overall tactile experiences. The Grape Orange employs a polycarbonate top housing that is noted for its clarity and resonance, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is a consequence of polycarbonate’s stiffness and translucency, making it an ideal choice for RGB lighting enthusiasts who appreciate the aesthetic benefits of illuminated switches. In contrast, the Roselle's POM top housing provides a deeper, more muted sound profile, favoring a unique auditory experience that emphasizes richness over sharpness. As such, the Grape Orange is more suited for those who enjoy bright and crisp feedback, while the Roselle appeals to individuals who prefer a warmer, rounder sound.

When examining the bottom housing, the differences continue. The Grape Orange features a nylon bottom housing, distinguished by its softer composition that absorbs sound, leading to a fuller and deeper sound profile. This allows the bottom-out sound to be rounded and more dulcet. On the other hand, Roselle's POM bottom housing similarly contributes to a rich sound experience, yet it is described as more muted compared to the nylon, emphasizing a unique tonal quality that diverges from the traditional characteristics associated with nylon. The combination of these materials defines the tactile experience during a keypress, with the Grape Orange offering a more pronounced sound feedback while typing, whereas the Roselle provides a subdued yet satisfying auditory sensation.

Ultimately, both the Huano Grape Orange and HC Studio Roselle align in that they craft a desirable auditory response, albeit through different methodologies in housing materials. If one were to seek a middle ground to achieve similar sound results, it would involve understanding how the interplay of each material affects the overall acoustic profile. The polycarbonate top of the Grape Orange may yield a brighter ending tone, while the softer nylon bottom tempers the overall impact, creating a balance. Meanwhile, the combination of POM in both top and bottom of the Roselle leads to a deep, satisfying sound that remains distinctively muted. Achieving an optimal blend of acoustic and tactile feedback may be accomplished by deliberately mixing these switch types to cater to individual preferences for auditory resonance and typing feel.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, one can observe some distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable option for users who prefer a more effortless keystroke, especially during prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Roselle has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. While both switches offer a relatively comfortable typing experience, the Grape Orange is better suited for those who favor a lighter touch, while the Roselle caters to users looking for a bit more resistance and a sturdier feel. Overall, if someone enjoys a lighter typing experience, the Grape Orange would be the preferred choice, whereas those who appreciate a stronger push feel should consider the Roselle.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they provide an identical feel when pressed. This means users can expect a similar responsiveness and overall experience when using keys equipped with either switch. Since the travel distances are the same, both switches will deliver consistent tactile feedback and key actuation, making the choice between them more dependent on other factors such as sound profile or actuation force rather than travel distance.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.

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 Huano Grape Orange switch is not specifically described, making it difficult to pinpoint its audio characteristics. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch features a subtle and low-pitched sound signature that is both bassy and mellow, creating a richer auditory experience during typing. This distinctive sound profile not only adds depth to each keystroke but also makes the Roselle switches suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch is characterized by its exceptionally light and effortless typing experience due to its ultra-low actuation force of only 40g, allowing for prolonged usage without fatigue. On the other hand, the Roselle switches provide an impossibly smooth typing sensation, thanks to their unique material blend. The Roselles are also described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for users of all levels. While the two switches present differing typing weights and sensations, both are designed to deliver a comfortable and engaging feel.

In summary, while the Huano Grape Orange offers a light and effortless typing experience, the HC Studio Roselle is renowned for its ethereal smoothness and subtle sound profile. If you're looking for a switch that minimizes fatigue during long typing sessions, the Grape Orange may be ideal due to its low actuation force. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a more textured auditory experience and a smooth feel, the Roselle could suit you better. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, be it through their unique sound qualities or tactile sensations.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Huano Grape Orange and HC Studio Roselle linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, particularly during long typing sessions, the Grape Orange switches are the way to go. Their low actuation force of 40g contributes to a very effortless feel, making them suitable for both casual users and those who type extensively throughout the day. On the other hand, if you are looking for a balanced blend of smoothness, mild sound, and a slightly firmer keypress, then the Roselle switches will serve you well. With their medium-light bottom out force of 52g, you get a satisfying tactile feedback along with a unique low-pitched, bassy sound signature that can enhance your typing experience. Therefore, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's the lightness and ease of the Grape Orange or the balanced characteristics of the Roselle—and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment.

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