Gateron Ink Box Black vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HC Studio Roselle are two popular linear options worth considering. The Ink Box Black is praised for its ultra-smooth and creamy feel, with a sound resembling a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its uniquely smooth and ethereally wispy sensation, coupled with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While the Ink Box Black is characterized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, the Roselle is described as bassy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, and neutral. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
1.80 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HC Studio Roselle, it is clear that they offer unique sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the POM top housing of the Roselle creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile highlights the distinct characteristics that each housing material brings to the typing experience.
Furthermore, when examining the bottom housings of these switches, the differences become even more apparent. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black maintains the same pointed and high-pitched sound profile as the top housing, contributing to a consistent typing experience. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Roselle adds to the deeper and more muted sound profile, enhancing the overall typing feel of the switch. This demonstrates how the bottom housing of a switch can play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each keystroke.
While the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HC Studio Roselle showcase contrasting housing materials that result in distinct sound profiles, they ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether it be a sharper and clacky sound or a deeper and more muted tone. Despite their differences, both switches work to enhance the overall typing experience through the use of high-quality housing materials that contribute to the sound and feel of each key press.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that they differ in weight. The Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, offering a smoother and lighter keystroke. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to different preferences among users. Some may prefer the lighter weight of the Roselle for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may gravitate towards the heavier weight of the Ink Box Black for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on an individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black and the HC Studio Roselle linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning users will get a similar typing experience in terms of the key press depth. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth actuation without the need for excessive force, making them ideal options for those looking for a linear switch with a medium travel distance. Whether you choose the Ink Box Black or the Roselle, you can expect to feel a satisfying key press with minimal travel distance, resulting in a seamless typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, reminiscent of a sharp and snappy sound similar to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a contrasting experience with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tonality during key presses. The neutral characteristic of the Roselle also caters to a wide range of users, making it a versatile option for different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches for sound will depend on whether you prefer a sharper, bright sound with the Ink Box Black or a deeper, more bass-heavy tone with the Roselle.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch provides a frictionless and mild typing sensation, offering an extremely smooth and effortless key press with a gentle typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on whether you prefer a more refined and polished feel with the Ink Box Black or a smoother, frictionless experience with the Roselle.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct experiences to the user. The Ink Box Black excels in providing a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky, polished feel, while the Roselle offers a bassy, low-pitched sound with a frictionless, mild typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. However, regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and creamy typing experience, as well as a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch that is incredibly smooth and ethereally wispy, with a subtle low-pitched sound profile, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing preferences.
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