Gazzew LT vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often debate between different options to find the perfect fit for their typing style. Two popular choices to consider are the Gazzew LT and the HC Studio Roselle, both linear switches offering unique characteristics. The Gazzew LT is praised for its deep, resonant thockiness and seamless glide, making each keystroke a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle stands out for its impossibly smooth and ethereal typing sensation, accompanied by a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While both switches are categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched', the LT emphasizes thockiness and glide, while the Roselle focuses on smoothness and a unique typing feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings provide a rich and deep sound due to its softness, while the Roselle's POM top and bottom housings create a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and more muted. Despite these differences, both switches offer a deep and rich sound profile that enhances the typing experience.
The Gazzew LT's housing materials, made from a proprietary plastic blend, deliver a soft and rich sound profile that is distinct from the HC Studio Roselle's POM materials. The LT's top and bottom housings both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, providing a consistent typing experience with a deep sound profile. In comparison, the Roselle's POM materials create a more muted sound that is unique and pleasing, offering a different typing experience for users who prefer a deeper sound.
While the Gazzew LT and HC Studio Roselle housing materials have their unique qualities, they ultimately serve a similar purpose in enhancing the sound profile of the switches. Both switches offer a deep and rich sound that enhances the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the softness of the Gazzew blend or the muted sound of POM, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Gazzew LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch in terms of resistance. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle has a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, falling into the medium-light category. The actuation force of the LT is not specified, while the Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Roselle will require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the LT. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Roselle, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the LT. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the LT switch will provide a slightly faster response time when pressed due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the LT switch for this reason. On the other hand, the Roselle switch offers a slightly deeper key press due to its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable or familiar. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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, both the Gazzew LT and the HC Studio Roselle linear switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched qualities, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. The LT switches are specifically praised for their thockiness, giving a satisfying sound similar to a deep "thud" or soft "knock." On the other hand, the Roselle switches offer a more neutral sound profile, catering to a wider range of preferences. Ultimately, the sound of the switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT switches are known for their seamless glide with every keystroke, providing a smooth typing experience. However, specific descriptors for the feel of the LT switches are not provided. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switches excel in their frictionless and mild characteristics, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. These qualities make the Roselle switches approachable to most users, standing in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel.
Overall, both the Gazzew LT and the HC Studio Roselle switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the LT switches provide a thocky and bassy sound with a seamless glide, the Roselle switches deliver a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with both switches, but detailed comparisons based on individual preferences would be necessary to make the final decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, resonant thocky sound, the Gazzew LT may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, the HC Studio Roselle could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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