TKC Kiwi vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the TKC Kiwi and the HC Studio Roselle. The Kiwi is a tactile switch that is designed to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for immersive typing. On the other hand, the Roselle is a linear switch that offers an incredibly smooth and ethereal typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Kiwi focuses on tactile feedback and a snappy typing experience, the Roselle prioritizes smoothness and a unique typing sensation. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Kiwi featuring UHWMPE top and bottom housings and the Roselle featuring POM top and bottom housings. Both UHWMPE and POM are newer materials in the world of switch housings, each offering their own distinct sound signatures. The UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Kiwi provide a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing, while the POM top and bottom housings of the Roselle create a deeper, more muted sound profile. Despite their differences, both materials bring a level of uniqueness and craftsmanship to their respective switches.
In terms of sound profile, the UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Kiwi provide a bright, resonant clack when typing on switches with such housings. On the other hand, the POM top and bottom housings of the Roselle offer a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. The differences in sound between the two housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience. While the Kiwi may produce a more pronounced and sharp sound, the Roselle offers a smoother and more relaxed typing experience with its deeper and more muted sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the housing materials of the switches also play a significant role. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi provides a bright and impactful bottom-out sound and feel, while the POM bottom housing of the Roselle contributes to a more muted and subdued bottom-out experience. The impact of the housing material on the sound and feel of the switch can vary depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. Overall, both the TKC Kiwi and HC Studio Roselle offer unique and high-quality housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Roselle's 45 grams. However, the Kiwi also has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Roselle has a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the Kiwi provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Roselle offers a lighter actuation force for a more delicate keystroke. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy and medium-light categories, respectively. Depending on individual preferences, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Roselle for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Kiwi for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Kiwi falls into the traditional range for travel distance, providing a comfortable amount of depth for users when typing. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance, ideal for those looking for a faster response time in their keystrokes. Gamers and those seeking quicker feedback may prefer the Roselle for its shorter travel distance, while individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Kiwi's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Both switches offer a comfortable sound experience with minor differences in tone and richness, ultimately providing similar results depending on the user's preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is characterized by a stepped and accented tactile sensation, providing a medium-strong bump with a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch offers a frictionless and mild typing experience, with an impossibly smooth feel and a gentle typing characteristic that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Kiwi providing a more pronounced bump while the Roselle focuses on a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Overall, the TKC Kiwi and HC Studio Roselle switches bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Kiwi offers a more pronounced tactile bump and a slightly snappier sound profile, the Roselle provides an exceptionally smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, both switches can deliver a satisfying and immersive typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you should weigh your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, then the Kiwi switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a low-pitched sound signature, then the Roselle switch may be the better option. The Kiwi offers a stepped and accented tactile feel, while the Roselle provides a frictionless and mild typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and snappy sound or smoothness and a bassy sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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