KTT Rose vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Rose and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Rose is a linear switch known for its beautiful design and use of progressive springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy typing experience. Typing on the Rose switches is likened to hearing bassy raindrops, creating a soothing atmosphere. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle is also a linear switch but stands out for its incredibly smooth and ethereal typing sensation, attributed to the inherent material blend. Typing on the Roselle switches produces a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. Both switches are categorized by their unique qualities, with the Rose labeled as low-pitched, neutral, mild, polished and the Roselle as bassy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, neutral. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference; 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
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
Progressive spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Rose featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Roselle has a POM top housing and a POM bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Rose creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Roselle produces a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to those who prefer a softer typing experience.
While the top housing materials for the Rose and the Roselle differ, both switches share a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. The POM material used in the bottom housing of both switches helps to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This shared bottom housing material may result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches, despite their different top housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Rose and the HC Studio Roselle ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Rose with its polycarbonate top housing may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more muted sound, the Roselle with its POM top housing might be more appealing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their combination of different housing materials, giving users the opportunity to find the perfect sound profile for their needs.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Rose switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Roselle switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Rose switch is 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the Roselle switch has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is medium-light. In terms of weight, the Roselle switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Rose switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions, the Roselle switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Rose switch with its heavier forces would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing intensity and comfort.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. This makes the Roselle the shorter option and the Rose the longer option. The Rose with its 4mm travel distance will provide a slightly deeper key press compared to the Roselle with its 3.6mm travel distance. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Roselle, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may prefer the Rose. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Rose linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most users and settings. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound that is smooth and ethereal, providing a rich and deep tone during key presses. While both switches have low-pitched characteristics, the Roselle tends to offer a more unique and subtle sound signature due to its material blend.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, offering a sleek typing experience. Conversely, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild feel, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. The Roselle's fluid key travel minimizes any sense of resistance, making it a comfortable option for users seeking a seamless typing feel.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Rose linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch share some similarities in their low-pitched sound profiles, they offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Rose switch provides a neutral and polished typing experience with a mellow sound, while the Roselle switch delivers a bassy and frictionless feel with a rich and deep sound signature. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch would be a great choice for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Rose linear switch or the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a low-pitched sound, then the KTT Rose switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, then the HC Studio Roselle switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile to enhance your overall typing experience.
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