KTT Kang White vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Kang White and the HC Studio Roselle, both linear switches. The Kang White is praised for its exquisite poppy linear feel, accompanied by a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its inherent material blend delivering an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience, with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While the Kang White is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Roselle boasts attributes of being 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch offers unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences in typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the HC Studio Roselle offer two distinct sound profiles. The Kang White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Roselle's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Kang White allows for RGB lighting to shine through, providing a visually appealing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Roselle may not offer the same visual effects but does contribute to a unique auditory experience with its deeper sound profile.
The differences continue with the bottom housing of the switches. The Kang White's nylon bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer nature. Conversely, the Roselle's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile but with a relatively more muted tone. Both bottom housings offer a different typing experience, with the nylon providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM's unique and pleasing sound.
Despite their differences, both switches have housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a combination of qualities in sound production. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during bottom-out sounds and tactile feedback, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. While the Kang White and Roselle may use different materials for their housings, they both offer unique sound experiences that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of required force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Kang White has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Roselle's lighter bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that while both switches will feel similar when initially typing, the Kang White will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Roselle may be the preferred choice. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Kang White to be more suitable for their typing needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Roselle has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Kang White. The Kang White offers a more traditional 4 mm travel distance, while the Roselle provides a shallower 3.6 mm distance. Gamers might prefer the Roselle for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Kang White with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 Kang White linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and moderate typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound signature, giving a deeper and richer tone to key presses. Both switches have their own unique sound qualities, with the Kang White leaning towards a more balanced tone while the Roselle delivers a deeper and more resonant sound.
As for the feel, the Kang White's specific qualities are not provided, but the Roselle linear switch is praised for its frictionless and mild typing experience. The Roselle offers an extremely smooth and effortless key press, minimizing any resistance or friction, leading to a fluid and gentle typing feel. This makes the Roselle switch appealing to those who prefer a softer and less pronounced typing experience.
Overall, the Kang White and Roselle linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Kang White provides a dazzling and smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound, the Roselle stands out for its ethereally smooth feel and bassy, low-pitched sound profile. Depending on your personal preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a more balanced and neutral sound like the Kang White or a deeper and more frictionless feel like the Roselle.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Kang White linear switch or the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you value a poppy linear switch with unparalleled smoothness and a low-pitched sound profile, the Kang White would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy feel, along with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, then the Roselle would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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