SP-Star RedBlue vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star RedBlue and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique characteristics to consider. The RedBlue linear switches are ideal for those seeking a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Roselle switches stand out for their incredibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the RedBlue switches are deemed 'Thocky' and 'Polished', the Roselles are described as 'Bassy' and 'Frictionless'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing habits; 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
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In terms of the housing materials, the SP-Star RedBlue 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, which enhances resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle uses a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. The difference in sound between the two switches can be attributed to the characteristics of their respective housing materials.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the RedBlue and the Roselle switches utilize different materials. The RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material, while the Roselle's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more subdued sound. This difference in housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches when pressed down, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The choice of housing material for the bottom part of the switch can greatly influence the overall typing experience for users.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches, it is evident that the choice between polycarbonate and POM can result in distinct typing experiences. While the polycarbonate housing in the RedBlue creates a sharper sound profile, the POM housing in the Roselle offers a deeper and more muted sound. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings further highlights how different materials can influence the overall typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star RedBlue and the HC Studio Roselle will come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch differ slightly. The RedBlue has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light. In comparison, the Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, also medium-light. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming. However, the Roselle requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the RedBlue. Ultimately, when choosing between the two, one should consider whether they prefer a slightly lighter actuation force or a slightly heavier one for their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Roselle. The difference may not be significant, but if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the RedBlue might be the better option for you. In contrast, the Roselle offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which can result in a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their moderate travel distances, but depending on personal preference for key depth and responsiveness, one may be more suitable than the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users, providing a mellow and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches have a neutral actuation force requirement, making them versatile for various typing preferences and environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound profile, with the RedBlue offering a more mellow tone and the Roselle providing a deeper, bass-heavy sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, delivering a gentle and refined keypress with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch offers a frictionless and mild typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance for effortless key presses and fluid key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the RedBlue focusing on a polished and refined feel, while the Roselle prioritizes a frictionless and smooth typing sensation. Again, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel, whether opting for a more refined and polished experience with the RedBlue or a frictionless and effortless typing experience with the Roselle.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The RedBlue provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a mild and polished typing feel, while the Roselle offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a frictionless and mild typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and versatile typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, and selecting either will result in a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch or the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams and a low-pitched sound profile with a neutral feel, then the RedBlue switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy feel, and a bassy sound profile, then the Roselle switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Consider how you prioritize bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision between these two excellent linear switches.
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