Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and HC Studio Roselle represent two distinct options catering to different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that offers a bouncy and snappy typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump. On the other hand, the Roselle is a linear switch known for its incredibly smooth feel and low-pitched sound profile. While the Lavender Purple Pro provides a polished and accented typing experience, the Roselle offers a neutral and mild feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HC Studio Roselle, we can see distinct differences in their construction. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature. This material allows for clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Roselle utilizes a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro leans towards a crisper tone compared to the Roselle's POM housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro incorporates a nylon material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Roselle also utilizes a POM bottom housing, echoing the deep and muted sound profile characteristic of the material. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, with the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro providing a fuller sound compared to the POM material used in the Roselle.
When considering the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is crucial to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings play a significant role. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, the top housing contributes to the sound when the key is released. Despite their differences in housing materials, both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Roselle offer distinct sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams. This difference means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a medium-light actuation and bottom out force, while the Roselle provides a slightly lighter bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Roselle, as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro due to its higher bottom out force. Regardless, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a similar actuation force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users seeking faster response times, such as gamers. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, the 0.2 mm difference may not be significant to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and responsiveness you prefer in your typing or gaming experience. Whether you opt for the shorter or longer travel distance, you can expect similar results in overall performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switches are known for a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Depending on personal preference, the Lavender Purple Pro offers a more distinct and crisp sound, while the Roselle delivers a mellower and bass-heavy tone that can be appealing for those seeking a more subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is described as offering a tactile experience that is accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities contribute to a typing sensation that combines noticeable tactile feedback with a smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switches are known for a frictionless and mild typing experience, providing an extremely smooth and effortless key press with a gentle feel that appeals to a wide range of users. The Roselle switches stand out for their inherent material blend that delivers an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy sensation.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches excel in providing a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making them a great choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switches offer a smoother and more subdued sound profile, along with a frictionless and mild typing feel that caters to users looking for a gentle and effortless key press. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the key attributes of each switch to match your preferences. If you value a tactile typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and ethereal typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, the Roselle linear switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what attributes matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, whether it be feel, sound, or bottom out force.