SP-Star Meteor White vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the SP-Star Meteor White and the HC Studio Roselle, both linear switches with distinct characteristics. The Meteor White is favored for its gentle linear feel, easy actuation, and quiet sound profile, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a soft typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle offers an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing sensation, coupled with a unique low-pitched sound when typing. Each switch has its own appeal, with the Meteor White being described as 'Thocky' and 'Polished', while the Roselle is labeled as 'Bassy' and 'Frictionless'. 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
Gold plated
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a switch that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, which offers a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and more muted compared to nylon. While both switches provide a deeper sound profile, the characteristics of the nylon and POM housing materials result in slightly different auditory experiences for users.
The difference in housing materials between the SP-Star Meteor White and the HC Studio Roselle extends to the top and bottom housings, with each material bringing distinct qualities to the overall switch experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on a key, while the POM bottom housing of the Roselle also offers a unique and pleasing sound profile with a more muted tone. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White impacts the sound when releasing a key, while the POM top housing of the Roselle creates a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to nylon.
Although the housing materials for the top and bottom of the SP-Star Meteor White and HC Studio Roselle switches differ, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. The nylon and POM materials both contribute to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, with the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone compared to POM. While the specific qualities of each housing material may vary slightly, users can expect a similar level of depth and richness in sound from both switches, making them excellent options for those seeking a premium typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The SP-Star Meteor White has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 57 grams, which falls under the medium-light category. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Meteor White, and a bottom out force of 52 grams, also categorized as medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Meteor White, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Roselle. Both switches offer a relatively similar typing experience due to their comparable bottom out forces, providing users with a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 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 White. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Meteor White being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Roselle with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more robust feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Meteor White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference based on the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, giving a deeper and richer auditory experience during typing. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Meteor White being more neutral and the Roselle featuring a more bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to feel, the Meteor White switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle feel and smooth key travel for users. On the other hand, the Roselle switch offers a frictionless and mild typing sensation, delivering an incredibly smooth and effortless key press without any resistance or friction. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience but achieve it through different means, with the Meteor White focusing on a polished finish and the Roselle emphasizing a frictionless travel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor White provides a soft and gentle typing experience with a neutral and thocky sound profile, the Roselle delivers an impossibly smooth feel with a bassy and low-pitched sound. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users, ensuring that regardless of the choice, users will achieve similar levels of comfort and enjoyment while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a softer, gentler typing experience with a pitter-patter sound profile and a neutral switch sound, the Meteor White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Roselle may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a soft feel and gentle sound or a smooth, ethereal typing experience with deeper tones. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your personal typing style and sound preference.
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