Durock Ice King Linear vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Ice King Linear and the HC Studio Roselle are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer a unique typing experience. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, creating a frictionless and creamy typing sensation. In contrast, the Roselle stands out for its inherent material blend that delivers an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Ice King Linear is categorized as 'Silky' and 'Polished', the Roselle is described as 'Bassy' and 'Mild'. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but each offers a distinct feel and sound profile. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Linear and the HC Studio Roselle both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Ice King Linear using nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Roselle uses POM for both components. Both nylon and POM are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, with nylon being softer and absorbing more sound, resulting in a rounder sound, while POM creates a more muted and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles.
While the top housing materials differ between the Ice King Linear and the Roselle, the impact on the sound when pressing down on a key may vary slightly. The nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Roselle creates a more muted and unique sound. However, both switches share the commonality of providing a pleasing typing experience with differing sound profiles that cater to individual preferences. The bottom housing of each switch also plays a role in the overall sound and feel, with nylon and POM both contributing to the switch's overall performance.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the HC Studio Roselle play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the Ice King Linear uses nylon for both top and bottom housing, and the Roselle uses POM for its construction, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether it be the rounder and fuller sound of nylon or the deeper and muted sound of POM, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking for switches with distinct characteristics.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have medium bottom out forces, with the Ice King at 62 grams and the Roselle at 52 grams, making the Roselle a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Roselle for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users looking for a more substantial typing experience may find the Ice King to be more suitable. In terms of actuation force, the Roselle offers a slightly lighter feel, while both switches provide a medium bottom out force for a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and pressure sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it can still impact the typing experience. The Ice King's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quick response times, while the Roselle's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth. Ultimately, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who appreciate a more responsive keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 Durock Ice King Linear switch provides a subdued and subtle sound when pressed, offering a quieter typing experience compared to many other switches, making it suitable for those who prefer a more understated sound profile. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is described as having a bassy, low-pitched sound that adds a deeper and richer tone to key presses. This switch may appeal to users looking for a switch with a more pronounced and melodious sound. Additionally, the Roselle switch is labeled as having a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various typing environments.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Ice King Linear and Roselle switches are praised for their smooth typing experiences. The Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished feel, providing an exceptional typing feel with minimal resistance and effortless key press and release. On the other hand, the Roselle switch is also described as being frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and fluid typing experience. Additionally, the Roselle switch is noted to provide a mild typing sensation, making it a comfortable and approachable option for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the Durock Ice King Linear and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer high-quality typing experiences with smooth and effortless key presses. While the Ice King Linear switch provides a quieter and more subdued sound profile, the Roselle switch offers a deeper and richer sound with a bassy undertone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches deliver premium typing experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Linear and HC Studio Roselle linear switches, you should consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with subtle sound, the Ice King Linear would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and an inherently smooth and ethereal feel with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Roselle switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a silky typing experience with a subdued sound (Ice King Linear) or a smooth, ethereal feel with a bassy, low-pitched sound profile (Roselle). Make your choice based on what best fits your typing style and preferences.
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