Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, we are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch celebrated for its snappy response and buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of tactility without overpowering the user. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a smooth and frictionless linear switch experience, providing a sensation that is both impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy. While the Purple Sakura is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy', the Roselle is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences in 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HC Studio Roselle, it's clear that they both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Purple Sakura utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Roselle features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both housings offer distinct acoustic experiences for users, catering to different preferences in sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Purple Sakura's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Roselle's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound, aligning with its top housing to create a cohesive acoustic experience. Both switches showcase the importance of bottom housing materials in influencing the overall sound profile, highlighting how these materials impact the typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Purple Sakura and the Roselle differ in their choice of top and bottom housing materials, they both excel in providing unique and pleasing sound profiles. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and muted sound of the Roselle's POM housing, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound. Ultimately, users can expect consistent and satisfying results from either switch, showcasing the significance of housing materials in determining the overall sound quality of a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Purple Sakura requiring 60 grams and the Roselle needing 52 grams. The difference in actuation force means that the Purple Sakura will provide a slightly more tactile typing experience, requiring a bit more force to register a keystroke. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing sensation. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Roselle has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. The difference between the two may not be significant, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the Roselle may be the better option. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are preferred by many users for quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound signature, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Purple Sakura being more mild and neutral, while the Roselle leans towards a deeper and more resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Purple Sakura switch is known for its buttery and snappy sensation, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience that is responsive and enjoyable. Conversely, the HC Studio Roselle switch boasts a frictionless feel, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches fall under the category of mild switches, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience that suits a wide range of users.
Overall, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HC Studio Roselle switches offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Sakura excels in providing a balanced and buttery typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Roselle delivers a smooth and frictionless feel with a bassy and low-pitched sound signature. Whether you prefer a more neutral and responsive tactile switch like the Purple Sakura or a smoother and bass-heavy linear switch like the Roselle, both options cater to different preferences and typing styles in the realm of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and buttery downstroke, along with a neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and ethereal typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Roselle linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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