SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between two mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the HC Studio Roselle offer distinct experiences. The Meteor Orange is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle is a linear switch that boasts an incredibly smooth feel and a low-pitched sound signature, appealing to users who prioritize a silky typing sensation. 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
57g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor Orange and HC Studio Roselle switches both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Roselle employs a POM top housing, resulting in a unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, they provide slightly different characteristics to the typing experience.
On the bottom housing front, both switches again differ in materials used. The Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its nylon top housing. Conversely, the Roselle switches feature a POM bottom housing, which also produces a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is more muted. Despite the differences in materials, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the specific qualities of their respective bottom housings.
While the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and HC Studio Roselle switches differ, they both aim to improve typing sound profiles in their own unique ways. The softer nylon material of the Meteor Orange creates a duller and rounder sound, while the POM material of the Roselle offers a deeper and more muted sound. Overall, both switches provide users with a distinct typing experience based on the specific qualities of their housing materials. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the more unique sound profile of POM, both switches offer a premium typing experience that is sure to please enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is clear that the Roselle has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Meteor Orange's unknown force. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Meteor Orange being slightly heavier at 57 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams. The Meteor Orange offers a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Roselle's lighter actuation force may be preferred by users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Overall, while the actuation force differs between the two switches, they both provide a medium-light typing experience with slight variations in bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Roselle has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor Orange. The Meteor Orange falls in the traditional range of 4.0mm, while the Roselle is slightly shallower at 3.6mm. It is worth noting that the difference between the two is relatively small and may not be significant for all users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Roselle, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is described as having a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a subtle, low-pitched signature, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Meteor Orange delivering a more neutral sound and the Roselle offering a bass-heavy tone. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the more moderate and thocky Meteor Orange or the bassy and low-pitched Roselle.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch provides a frictionless and mild typing experience, minimizing resistance and offering effortless key presses with fluid travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Meteor Orange being more gentle and polished while the Roselle delivers a frictionless and smooth feel. Depending on your preference for typing feel, you can choose between the polished and mild Meteor Orange or the frictionless and mild Roselle.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offer distinct advantages in sound and feel. The Meteor Orange provides a neutral and thocky sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience, suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a frictionless and mild typing experience, delivering a unique auditory and tactile sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between the more moderate and thocky Meteor Orange or the bassy and low-pitched Roselle to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a gentle tactile feedback, the Meteor Orange may be the better choice for you. This switch offers a neutral sound profile and a more polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a lower bottom out force and an ultra-smooth feel, the Roselle linear switch could be more to your liking. With its bassy sound profile and frictionless typing experience, the Roselle provides a unique and satisfying typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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