HMX Gravel vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Gravel and the HC Studio Roselle offers enthusiasts distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, catering to those who prefer a medium-light actuation force that enhances responsiveness, making typing feel effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle stands out with its inherently smooth material blend, which provides an ethereal typing experience accompanied by a subtle low-pitched sound—a unique auditory signature that sets it apart. While the Gravel offers a more traditional yet satisfying typing experience, the Roselle leans into a sensorial approach with its frictionless feel and bassy tones. Both switches have their merits, appealing to different preferences within the keyboard community. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style and experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the HC Studio Roselle switches, it is evident that each uses different top housing materials, which influences their sound profiles. The HMX Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relative stiffness. This characteristic makes polycarbonate particularly effective when paired with RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effects. In contrast, the Roselle's top housing is made of POM, or polyoxymethylene, which lends a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast indicates that while the Gravel offers a brighter acoustic response, the Roselle provides a warmer and more rounded auditory experience, catering to different preferences among users.
Looking at the bottom housing, both switches utilize materials that achieve similar deeper sound profiles: the Gravel employs nylon, while the Roselle features POM. The nylon material in the Gravel is described as a classic housing choice, providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively. Meanwhile, the POM bottom housing of the Roselle also contributes to a unique sound that is somewhat muted yet pleasing. Despite their different compositions, both materials emphasize a more rounded sound when typing, indicating that, while they may sound distinct, they share common auditory characteristics that appeal to enthusiasts seeking a balanced acoustic experience.
Combining the knowledge of both switches, we can assert that the differences in top housing materials lead to variance in sound when pressing and releasing keys. The Gravel's polycarbonate top focuses on clarity and brightness, while the Roselle's POM top provides a deeper resonance. However, the similarities between the bottom housing materials suggest that when typing, the muted, fuller sound of both switches might lead to comparable overall auditory experiences during actual use. Thus, a user seeking a specific sound profile can expect distinct tonal nuances from the Gravel while enjoying a similarly enjoyable typing experience as offered by the Roselle, highlighting how an effective combination of materials can cater to varying preferences within the realm of keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, we see notable similarities and slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an identical actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light touch that facilitates comfortable typing over extended periods, making them well-suited for both work and gaming. However, the Gravel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Roselle reaches a slightly higher bottom out force of 52 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This difference may result in the Gravel feeling marginally less forceful upon bottoming out, which could appeal to users seeking a softer typing experience. Ultimately, the Gravel is the lighter option overall, while the Roselle, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger tactile response during use.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Gravel switch offers a slightly shorter keypress distance compared to the Roselle. For users who prioritize rapid response times, the Gravel may be the preferred choice, as the shorter travel distance can facilitate quicker key actuations, benefiting gamers and fast-paced typists. On the other hand, the Roselle’s longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys, providing a sense of depth that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance, although minimal, may influence your typing or gaming experience based on personal preference for responsiveness or key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 HMX Gravel linear switch does not have a specified sound profile. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is noted for its subtle, low-pitched sound signature, which can be described as bassy and neutral. This means the Roselle offers a deeper, richer audio experience during key presses, making it more engaging for users who appreciate an auditory feedback that aligns with a more mellow and bass-heavy tonality. It's important to note that the overall sound experience will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch is known for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience. While the specific characteristics are not detailed, the Gravel provides a smooth and responsive sensation. On the other hand, the Roselle switch is characterized as frictionless, offering an incredibly smooth and effortless typing feel, combined with a mild touch that results in a gentle and approachable typing experience. This fluid and frictionless nature ensures that both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, although the Roselle may deliver an even more seamless sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and HC Studio Roselle linear switches present appealing options for different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Gravel’s smoothness is emphasized, the Roselle stands out with its distinct sound and a unique feel characterized by an ethereal smoothness. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, with the Gravel focusing on a refined touch and the Roselle offering a more fluid motion complemented by its deeper sound profile. Choosing between them will largely depend on whether you prioritize a specific auditory experience or an exceptionally smooth typing action.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, your typing preferences and workspace environment will guide your choice. If you favor a light actuation force coupled with a highly smooth typing experience, the Gravel is an excellent option. Its 50-gram bottom-out force and a responsive feel will suit you if you enjoy rapid, effortless typing, making it ideal for casual typing, gaming, or extended writing sessions. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier force, a unique sound profile, and an exquisitely smooth sensation that doesn't rely on lubrication, then the Roselle is your go-to. With its 52-gram bottom-out force and a subtle, bassy sound signature, it's well-suited for environments where sound matters, such as in shared offices or recording spaces. The Roselles provide a more refined auditory experience, and their frictionless feel offers a gentle and comfortable typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your desired balance of weight, sound, and typing smoothness.
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