Outemu Silent Ocean vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Ocean and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Ocean and HC Studio Roselle both offer a linear typing experience, but with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Silent Ocean is known for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its incredibly smooth and frictionless feel, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that adds a unique touch to typing. While the Ocean is categorized by its silence, the Roselle is characterized by its smoothness and distinctive sound profile. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Ocean and the HC Studio Roselle, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. In contrast, the Roselle features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their own distinct qualities, with polycarbonate being stiffer and POM being softer, leading to differences in sound characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Silent Ocean incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Roselle also uses a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound experience, the nylon and POM materials each bring their own nuances to the overall sound profile, showcasing the importance of bottom housing material in shaping the sound of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent Ocean and the HC Studio Roselle ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Silent Ocean with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing will deliver a crisper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Roselle with its POM top and bottom housings producing a deeper, more muted sound. However, if you prefer a consistent sound experience across the switch, both switches offer similarly compelling results with their respective housing materials. Whether you prioritize clarity and resonance or prefer a deeper, more mellow sound, both switches have something unique to offer based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Roselle's lighter bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that while the actuation force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches, the Silent Ocean will provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. This may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Roselle's lighter bottom out force may be more appealing to individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Silent Ocean offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer more depth in the keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Roselle switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which could be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Ocean being the longer option and the Roselle being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent Ocean 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 comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch in terms of sound, the Roselle is known for a subtle, low-pitched sound signature while the Silent Ocean's sound quality is unspecified. The Roselle is described as offering a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean's sound characteristics remain unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Roselle is celebrated for its incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its material blend that delivers an impossibly smooth sensation during key presses. Described as frictionless, the Roselle offers an effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. In contrast, the Silent Ocean's tactile feel is not specified. The Roselle is also characterized as providing a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users due to its safe, middle-ground qualities.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch stands out for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, delivering a subtle and low-pitched sound profile that offers a rich and deep tone during key presses. While the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have specified details on sound and feel, it's important to consider personal preferences and usage scenarios when choosing between these switches. Keep in mind that your choice of keyboard, keycaps, and overall setup will also play a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound quality. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results if the user prioritizes smoothness and a subdued sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and prioritize a smooth, low-pitched sound with a frictionless and mild typing feel, the Roselle switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what aspects of typing experience are most important to you.
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