Durock Medium Tactile vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Medium Tactile and the HC Studio Roselle. The Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, giving users a satisfying typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its incredibly smooth and ethereally wispy feel, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound while typing. While the Medium Tactile offers a tactile typing experience, the Roselle provides a linear feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the HC Studio Roselle, it is evident that they both prioritize a unique sound profile for the switches. The Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharp, higher-pitched sound, while the Roselle opts for a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper, more muted sound. Both switches aim to provide users with a distinctive typing experience based on the material used for their top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Medium Tactile features a nylon housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone. On the other hand, the Roselle also utilizes POM for the bottom housing, adding to the unique sound profile with its deeper and relatively muted characteristics. While both switches may have different materials for their bottom housing, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their respective sound profiles.
Overall, while the Durock Medium Tactile and the HC Studio Roselle differ in their choice of housing materials, both switches are designed to offer users a distinct typing experience based on the sound profile produced. Whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Medium Tactile or the deeper, more muted sound of the POM top housing in the Roselle, users can expect a unique typing experience with either switch. Additionally, the use of nylon and POM for the bottom housing further adds to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, emphasizing the attention to detail in crafting a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Durock Medium Tactile and HC Studio Roselle switches have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock Medium Tactile has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it heavier compared to the Roselle, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The actuation force determines how much pressure is needed to register a keypress, while the bottom out force indicates the force required to fully press the key down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Roselle switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Durock Medium Tactile switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Roselle switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Medium Tactile switch. The Medium Tactile with its 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional key press feel, while the Roselle with its 3.6 mm travel distance provides a slightly shallower key press. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Roselle switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Medium Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, which provides a unique auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding a deeper and richer tone to key presses. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference, as sound is subjective and can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard construction and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Medium Tactile switch is praised for its accented and stepped tactile feedback, offering a balanced level of tactility that is not overwhelming. Additionally, it is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish. In contrast, the Roselle linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing sensation, minimizing resistance and providing a fluid key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Medium Tactile focusing more on tactile feedback and the Roselle emphasizing smoothness.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and HC Studio Roselle switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Medium Tactile excels in providing a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound, the Roselle stands out for its smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound characteristics. Both switches are well-crafted and offer a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their final decision.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the HC Studio Roselle switches, consider your preference for tactility and smoothness. If you enjoy a balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the HC Studio Roselle switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you prefer, whether it be a pronounced tactile feedback or a silky smooth keystroke. Take into account the bottom-out force, sound profile, and overall feel to determine which switch aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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