KTT Pine vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Pine and HC Studio Roselle linear switches both offer unique qualities for those seeking a smooth and low-pitched typing experience. The KTT Pine is praised for its medium-heavy feel and buttery smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for effortless typing. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle stands out for its inherent material blend that provides an incredibly smooth sensation, coupled with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While the Pine is known for its creaminess and buttery feel, the Roselle is appreciated for its frictionless and ethereal 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Pine and HC Studio Roselle switches play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. The Pine features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Roselle utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both offer unique sound profiles, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing is better suited for those who prefer a more distinct and sharp sound, whereas the Roselle's POM top housing is ideal for individuals who prefer a deeper and more subdued sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the KTT Pine and HC Studio Roselle differ once again in their material choices. The Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the characteristics of its top housing by providing a sharp and crisp sound profile. In comparison, the Roselle utilizes a POM bottom housing, known for creating a more muted and deeper sound. This means that when typing on the Pine switch, both the bottom-out sound and feel will be sharper and more resonant, while the Roselle will offer a more subdued typing experience. Understanding the impact of bottom and top housing materials is essential for choosing a switch that aligns with your preferences for sound and feel.
While the housing materials of the KTT Pine and HC Studio Roselle switches differ, they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the Pine results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, whereas the POM material in the Roselle creates a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences. Whether you prioritize a clear and resonant sound or a more subdued and deeper tone, understanding how housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience will help you make an informed decision when choosing between the two switches.
Weight
The KTT Pine linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, the Pine has a bottom out force of 58 grams, whereas the Roselle has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making the Roselle the lighter option. The Pine provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Roselle offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-light range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.6 mm travel distance of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Pine being on the longer side and the Roselle being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Roselle for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Pine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 KTT Pine and HC Studio Roselle switches are described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This means that they offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, characterized by a lower frequency range. Additionally, the Roselle is noted to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Pine switches are known for their buttery and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and uniform sensation when typing. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switches are described as frictionless and mild, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, albeit through slightly different means.
In conclusion, while the KTT Pine and HC Studio Roselle switches may have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both strive to offer a pleasant typing experience. Whether you prefer the buttery smoothness of the Pine switches or the frictionless feel of the Roselle switches, you can expect a high level of quality and performance from either option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what specific qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Pine linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a buttery smooth typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, the KTT Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, then the HC Studio Roselle switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific sensory experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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