Outemu Blue vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the HC Studio Roselle, a linear switch. The Outemu Blue switch is known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy the audible and tactile response while typing. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle stands out for its remarkably smooth feel and low-pitched sound signature, offering a more subtle typing experience. While the Blue switch caters to those who prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Roselle switch appeals to users who prioritize smoothness and a quieter typing operation. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Blue switch uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch features a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound. While the Blue appeals to those seeking a more pronounced sound, the Roselle caters to individuals who prefer a softer and more subdued typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Outemu Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Conversely, the HC Studio Roselle uses a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to the switch's deep and muted sound profile. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the different properties of their bottom housings, providing users with options based on their sound preferences.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Blue and HC Studio Roselle switches differ in material composition, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying and unique typing experience. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing allows for a combination of sharpness and depth in sound, catering to a variety of user preferences. While the Blue offers a more distinct and clear sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Roselle provides a deeper and more muffled sound with its POM top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Blue switch requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Roselle switch which requires 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Roselle switch is heavier at 52 grams compared to the Blue switch where the force is unknown. This means that the Roselle switch provides a slightly lighter actuation but a heavier bottom out force, offering a different typing experience compared to the Blue switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Roselle switch for longer typing sessions, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, we find that the Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Roselle has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of responsiveness, gamers may prefer the Roselle switch with its shorter travel distance for faster response times. However, for those who appreciate a more substantial keypress, the Outemu Blue switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Roselle providing a quicker keystroke and the Blue offering a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches 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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and crisp click sound during typing, giving users a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is recognized for its subtle, low-pitched sound signature, providing a quieter and more subdued typing experience compared to the Outemu Blue. The Roselle's sound profile is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer tone that can be more mellower and less distracting in a quiet environment.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch provides a tactile and clicky typing experience with a slight bump felt upon actuation, giving users a sense of feedback and responsiveness. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch stands out for its frictionless and smooth typing experience, delivering a sensation that is incredibly smooth and effortless, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Roselle's feel is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its tactile feedback.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that they offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Outemu Blue provides a loud and tactile typing experience with a distinct click sound, the Roselle offers a smoother and quieter typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound, with the Outemu Blue catering to those who enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience, while the Roselle appeals to users seeking a smoother and quieter typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a distinctive sound, the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a low actuation force, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to ensure that your mechanical keyboard switch enhances your typing experience. Happy typing!
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