Outemu Phoenix vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Phoenix and the HC Studio Roselle offer unique experiences for users. The Phoenix, a clicky switch, stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile that is truly one-of-a-kind. Categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished', the Phoenix switch is a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle, a linear switch, is praised for its smoothness and ethereally wispy sensation, thanks to its inherent material blend. With a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, the Roselle is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch offers a distinct feel and sound, catering to different preferences. 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
62g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
Comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the HC Studio Roselle, we see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Phoenix features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. This makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for light to shine through. In contrast, the Roselle utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. This presents a unique auditory experience compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Phoenix also employs polycarbonate which contributes to its clear, resonant sound profile. Similar to the top housing, the stiffness of polycarbonate plays a role in creating a more defined sound when the key is pressed. On the other hand, the Roselle uses a POM bottom housing, producing a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. This showcases the difference in sound profiles that can be achieved based on the choice of housing material.
It is evident that the choice of housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound profile of a switch. While the Phoenix leans towards a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing, the Roselle offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing. The impact of each material is felt differently depending on whether it is used for the top or bottom housing of the switch. Ultimately, the qualities brought by these materials contribute to the overall typing experience, highlighting the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the Roselle is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams compared to the Phoenix's actuation force of None grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Phoenix requires 62 grams, making it heavier than the Roselle's 52-gram bottom out force. The Phoenix switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Roselle offers a lighter actuation force, making it easier for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches fall into the medium category concerning actuation force, but the Roselle leans towards being light in comparison. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for typing feel and the amount of force desired for keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is clear that the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Roselle's 3.6 mm. The Phoenix's 3.3 mm provides a quicker feedback for those who prefer a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Roselle's longer 3.6 mm travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. In essence, choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter, quicker travel distance like the Phoenix or a longer, more profound travel distance like the Roselle.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is well-known for its crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This unique switch offers a satisfying click with a crystalline and sparkling feel. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound signature, giving off a deep and rich tone with each key press. The Roselle switch also offers an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience, making it feel polished and refined. With its mild characteristics, the Roselle switch provides a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone.
Overall, while the sound and feel of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch differ, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. For those who enjoy a crunchy and tactile typing experience, the Phoenix switch is an excellent choice, while the Roselle switch is ideal for those seeking a smoother and bass-heavy sound profile. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a unique click mechanism with a crystalline sound profile, the Phoenix may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a smooth, bassy sound profile with an ethereally smooth typing feel, the Roselle could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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