Outemu Brown vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, to the HC Studio Roselle, a linear switch, some distinct differences emerge. The Brown switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a slight bump when the key actuates. On the other hand, the Roselle switch stands out for its incredibly smooth keystrokes and low-pitched sound signature. While the Brown switch offers a tactile feel for those who prefer feedback while typing, the Roselle switch caters to those seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience. 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
53g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the HC Studio Roselle, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Roselle boasts a POM top housing, offering a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, the choice between polycarbonate and POM ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing that enhances the sound profile by providing a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Roselle also employs POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound profile. Despite different materials being used for the bottom housing, both switches offer a similar effect in terms of sound depth and richness.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and HC Studio Roselle play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of each switch. While the Brown excels in creating a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Roselle offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing materials, with nylon and POM creating a similar deep and full sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound characteristics and personal preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the Brown switch is on the heavier side while the Roselle switch is lighter. The Outemu Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorized as medium-light. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Outemu Brown may be the better choice, as it requires a higher force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter touch and may need to type for extended periods of time might find the HC Studio Roselle to be more comfortable. In both cases, users can expect consistent and reliable performance based on the switch's specified actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile 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 switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Brown switch. A shorter travel distance can be advantageous for gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred. Both switches offer quality performance, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the overall feel and experience of typing or gaming.
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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is often described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate level of sound that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound signature, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The Roselle switch offers a unique auditory experience that is characterized by a subtle, low-pitched sound that adds a touch of elegance to typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is known for its tactile bump that provides feedback to the user during key presses. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the Brown switch are not available at this time. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a frictionless and mild typing experience, with an incredibly smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes any sense of resistance or friction. The Roselle switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, making it approachable to most users.
In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct sound and feel experiences. The Brown switch provides a neutral sound profile and a tactile bump for feedback, while the Roselle switch delivers a bassy, low-pitched sound signature and a frictionless, mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Brown switch catering to users looking for a moderate sound and tactile feedback, and the Roselle switch appealing to those seeking a smooth, elegant typing experience with a richer sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile bump, the Outemu Brown switch is a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, the HC Studio Roselle switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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