Gateron Lunar Probe vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their smooth keypresses and subtle sound signatures. The Lunar Probe stands out for its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, while also providing a pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, the Roselle offers an unbelievably smooth and ethereal typing experience attributed to its inherent material blend. The Roselle also presents a subtle, low-pitched sound signature when keys are pressed. While the Lunar Probe offers a stable and consistent typing experience, the Roselle provides an incredibly smooth and unique sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HC Studio Roselle, the top housing stands out as a key point of difference. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Roselle incorporates a POM top housing, which produces a more pleasing and unique sound on the deeper and more muted side. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Lunar Probe is stiffer, resulting in a clearer and resonant sound, while the POM of the Roselle absorbs more sound, providing a duller and rounder sound.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing of these switches, a similarity emerges. Both the Lunar Probe and the Roselle utilize a POM bottom housing, which contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile. This sound tends to be deeper and more muted, offering a consistent experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. The choice of a softer plastic like POM for the bottom housing allows for enhanced sound absorption, resulting in a fuller and more rounded sound compared to harder plastics like nylon.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HC Studio Roselle play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and overall typing experience of these switches. While the top housing materials of polycarbonate and POM offer contrasting sound characteristics, the bottom housing material of POM provides a common ground with its deeper and more muted sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and clearer sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience thanks to their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, meaning both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lunar Probe is lighter with a force of 50 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams, making the Roselle a slightly heavier option. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lunar Probe may appeal to those looking for a smoother and easier typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Roselle provides a firmer push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In this case, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing a familiar tactile experience for users. Overall, the Gateron Lunar Probe and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer a comparable travel distance, making them equally suitable options for individuals seeking a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is known for its subtle sound signature, creating a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud or distracting. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, adding a deeper and richer tone to your keystrokes. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Lunar Probe leaning towards a more understated sound and the Roselle offering a more pronounced and bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch boasts a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, providing a consistent and stable keypress with minimal friction. The HC Studio Roselle switch, on the other hand, is described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with fluid travel. The Roselle switch falls into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users, while the Lunar Probe focuses on delivering a consistently smooth keystroke.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and HC Studio Roselle switches offer unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe excels in providing a stable and smooth typing experience with a subtle sound signature, while the Roselle stands out for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile and frictionless feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of keypress consistency and smoothness regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the HC Studio Roselle linear switches, consider the bottom out force and the unique characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Gateron Lunar Probe with 50 grams may be more suitable for you. The Lunar Probe offers a stable and consistent keypress experience with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams and value an impossibly smooth typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, the HC Studio Roselle may be the better option. Ultimately, your preference for bottom out force and the specific typing experience you desire will determine which linear switch is the perfect fit for you.
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