Zuoce Lavender vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique and enticing characteristics. The Lavender switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend, while also providing a crisp and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Roselle switch stands out for its smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound. While the Lavender is categorized as 'easy-to-press' and 'clacky', the Roselle is described as 'bassy', 'frictionless', 'low-pitched', 'mild', and 'neutral'. Each switch offers its own appeal and advantages, but choosing between them will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and HC Studio Roselle both utilize POM top and bottom housing materials, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. This similarity in housing materials suggests that users can expect similar sound characteristics from both switches. However, differences in the design and construction of the switches may still result in subtle variations in sound and feel.
One key difference between the Zuoce Lavender and HC Studio Roselle is how the housing materials are distributed within the switch. The Lavender's POM top and bottom housings split the qualities of the material between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Roselle's POM top and bottom housings are described in the same way, without any mention of how the distribution of qualities may affect the switch's overall performance.
While both switches feature POM housing materials that create a similar sound profile, it is important to consider how the distribution of these materials within the switch may influence the overall typing experience. Users looking for a switch that prioritizes a specific aspect of sound and feel, such as bottom-out sound or key release sound, may want to compare the Zuoce Lavender and HC Studio Roselle to determine which switch better aligns with their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that users are looking to achieve.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-light category. The Lavender switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, slightly heavier than the Roselle switch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. Despite the slight difference in force, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of weight. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, either switch would be suitable. However, individuals seeking a slightly more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Lavender switch due to its marginally heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with minimal fatigue, making them great options for various preferences.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Lavender switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Roselle switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, ensuring a consistent typing or gaming experience regardless of the small difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky nature, providing a sharp and percussive sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deeper and richer tone during typing. The Lavender will give you that satisfying crisp sound, while the Roselle will deliver a more mellow and bass-heavy sound experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, as well as other factors like keycaps and keyboard housing that can affect the overall acoustics of the switch.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a low-impact and responsive typing experience that is comfortable and effortless, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is known for its frictionless feel, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance or friction. The mild characteristics of the Roselle make it approachable to a wide range of users, offering a comfortable typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone between different switch types.
In conclusion, both the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Lavender excels in providing a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Roselle stands out for its bassy sound profile and frictionless feel. Your decision between the two switches will ultimately depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as any other factors like typing style and preference for switch weight. Rest assured, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience, with each offering its own distinct advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel, the Lavender switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy sound with a frictionless and mild typing experience, the Roselle switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on what aligns best with your personal typing style and preferences.
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