HC Studio Roselle vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HC Studio Roselle and the Huano Sakura stand out as excellent linear options, each offering unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Roselle is celebrated for its remarkably smooth feel, attributed to its special material blend, and features a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that adds a layer of acoustic enjoyment while typing. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a frictionless experience and a bassy tone, making it an excellent choice for both casual typists and gamers alike who value tactile feedback without a jarring noise. In contrast, the Huano Sakura provides a feather-light touch, making it an ideal selection for extended typing sessions, where comfort and ease of use are paramount. While it features medium acoustics, it offers a responsive feel that can enhance productivity without causing fatigue. Both switches have their merits depending on your needs; the Roselle excels in smoothness and sound while the Sakura shines in lightness and comfort. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Huano Sakura switches exhibit notable differences that contribute uniquely to their sound profiles and durability. The Roselle features a Polyoxymethylene (POM) top and bottom housing, renowned for creating a sound that is deeper and relatively muted. This choice of material enhances the switch's ability to produce a pleasing auditory experience, emphasizing a particular sound signature that many enthusiasts gravitate towards. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs a Polyketone (POK) top housing, which, while also aiming to produce a smooth sound, offers a slightly different tactile response. POK's higher coefficient of friction lends itself to a slicker feel during typing, along with a sound profile that is characterized as more clacky. The use of nylon for the bottom housing in the Sakura introduces a classic feel that is more forgiving and fuller than the harder POM, allowing the switch to project a distinct auditory experience despite the varying top and bottom materials.
While both switches are crafted from high-quality materials, their differing characteristics lead to distinct outcomes in their performance and sound. The POM material in the Roselle contributes to a more uniform and muted sound across both the top and bottom housing, fostering a cohesive sound profile. This is particularly important for those looking for a subtler noise experience in quiet environments. Conversely, the POK top combined with a nylon bottom in the Huano Sakura creates a more complex sound dynamic, where the inherent properties of each material play a significant role in the overall acoustic profile. The noise generated during keypress actions differs notably; the Sakura’s clackiness is amplified by the smoother POK top, while the soft nylon bottom helps absorb sound, resulting in a fuller typing experience.
Ultimately, while the Roselle and Sakura differ fundamentally in their housing materials, they can both produce satisfying typing sounds by leveraging the characteristics of their respective materials. The comparative strength and wear resistance of POK contribute to the tactile and auditory experience of the Sakura, while the Roselle relies on POM’s muted qualities for a refined output. Despite their disparities, both switches can achieve harmonious sound profiles when appropriately engaged, ensuring that users can enjoy rich typing experiences whether they prefer the deeper tones of the Roselle or the ambitious clack of the Sakura. When pressed, the impact of each housing material on the overall sound and feel provides a customized experience tailored to individual preferences in typographic engagement.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Roselle features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Sakura offers a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more suitable choice for users who prefer a gentler touch. As such, the Sakura switch provides a softer typing experience, likely appealing to those who engage in prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Roselle's stronger push feel could cater to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. In summary, the Sakura is the lighter option with lower actuation and bottom out forces, while the Roselle is heavier, making it ideal for users who enjoy a firmer key press.
Travel distance
Both the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch have identical travel distances of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing either switch down, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar tactile feedback and keystroke feel. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect comparable performance when typing or gaming with either switch, making the choice primarily based on other factors such as sound or feel rather than travel distance.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a unique auditory experience with its subtle, low-pitched sound signature and a bassy profile that enriches each key press. This quality creates a deeper and more immersive typing experience, contrasting with the typically sharper sounds found in higher-pitched switches. The degree of richness in sound may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic presence while typing. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch is characterized by medium acoustics, which suggests a more neutral sound profile. While it is tailored for prolonged use, the specific sound signature remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons with the Roselle’s deeper tones. However, both switches emphasize ergonomics, making them suitable for typical use settings.
In terms of feel, the HC Studio Roselle switch is nothing short of exceptional with its frictionless experience, providing a remarkably smooth and effortless key press that minimizes any sensation of resistance. This effortlessly allows for fluid typing and contributes to a gentle, mild experience, which is welcoming for both new and seasoned typists alike. The overall tactile sensation of the Roselle can enhance the typing experience, making it enjoyable for extended sessions. Conversely, the Huano Sakura's feel parameters are unknown, limiting a direct comparison. However, given its feather-light touch, one can infer that it likely provides a comfortable and user-friendly experience, possibly aiming for a softer typing feel, though the specifics in terms of smoothness and friction remain unclear.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Roselle and Huano Sakura linear switches offer distinctive yet appealing characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Roselle’s deep, low-pitched sound and exceptionally smooth feel enhance the typing experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more profound auditory and tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the Sakura might be favored by those who prioritize a lighter touch and moderate acoustics, although its sound qualities remain to be detailed. Ultimately, both switches provide a welcome comfort for long typing sessions, though the Roselle stands out with its unique auditory characteristics and superior smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and needs. If you value a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a richer, low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle switch is likely your best bet. With its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams, it provides a balanced responsiveness that many users find enjoyable, making it a fantastic option for both gaming and long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you’re someone who prefers a lighter touch and softer acoustics, particularly for extended typing periods, the Sakura switch with its light 45-gram actuation force will serve you well. Its feather-light feel and medium sound make it suitable for those who want to type for hours without fatigue or strain. Ultimately, understanding these differences and aligning them with your personal typing style will help you make a more informed decision on which switch will enhance your keyboard experience.
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