Durock Piano vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Piano and the HC Studio Roselle, both linear switches. The Durock Piano is well-regarded for its proprietary material blend that offers a pleasant typing experience with a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky', the Piano is favored by those who enjoy a smooth and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle stands out for its inherent material blend that delivers an incredibly smooth and wispy sensation while typing, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Roselle offers a different typing experience compared to the Piano. 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
63.5g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
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 housing materials of the Durock Piano and the HC Studio Roselle are both made of a proprietary POM blend, which offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Both keyboards feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper, more muted profile. The similarities in the top housing material suggest that users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on either keyboard.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Durock Piano's bottom housing also utilizes the proprietary POM blend, which contributes to the satisfying and deep sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle features a different material for the bottom housing, which may impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch differently compared to the Durock Piano. This variation in bottom housing material could result in a slightly different typing experience between the two keyboards.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Piano and HC Studio Roselle play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing feel of each keyboard. While both keyboards feature POM top housings that offer a deep and pleasing sound, the difference in bottom housing materials may lead to subtle variations in typing experience. Whether one prefers the sound profile of the Durock Piano with its consistent POM blend throughout or the potentially different feel of the HC Studio Roselle with its mixed housing materials, both keyboards provide high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Durock Piano linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the actuation force is not specified. In comparison, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a lower bottom out force of 52 grams, which is medium-light, and an actuation force of 45 grams. The Piano switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, whereas the Roselle switch offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Piano switch, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the Roselle. Both switches have their advantages based on personal typing preferences, as weight plays a significant role in the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Piano 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 Piano switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Roselle switch. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, while a 3.0mm travel distance is shallower and provides a quicker response time, ideal for gamers. Both switches fall within the range of what is commonly preferred by users, with the Roselle being on the shorter end and the Piano offering a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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, both the Durock Piano and HC Studio Roselle linear switches have a deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses. However, the Roselle also offers a low-pitched and neutral sound that adds a mellow and versatile tone to your typing experience. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference and how the sound interacts with your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a frictionless typing experience that is smooth and effortless. The Piano is described as silky, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel, while the Roselle is considered mild, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wider range of users. Again, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between the two switches, as some may prefer a more pronounced typing experience while others may opt for a softer touch.
In conclusion, both the Durock Piano and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Piano provides a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, the Roselle delivers an impossibly smooth sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound. Ultimately, users seeking a more distinct and luxurious typing experience may lean towards the Piano, while those looking for a versatile and approachable option may favor the Roselle. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Piano linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and an impossibly smooth, low-pitched sound signature, the HC Studio Roselle switch may be more to your liking. Both switches offer a frictionless typing experience, but the Piano provides a silky feel while the Roselle offers a mild and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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