HC Studio Roselle vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, you'll find two distinct options with unique characteristics to consider. The Roselle stands out for its incredibly smooth and frictionless feel, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound when typing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with a two-staged spring design that delivers deep and resonating thocks. While the Roselle is characterized as 'Bassy' and 'Frictionless', the Shadow switch falls under categories such as 'Clacky' and 'Snappy'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of sound profile, the HC Studio Roselle and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer contrasting experiences due to their housing materials. The Roselle's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, providing a satisfying and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, which is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This difference in sound profile can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users, as some may prefer the deep and muted sound of POM, while others may favor the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate.
Visually, the housing materials also play a role in the aesthetics of the switches. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard setup. In contrast, the Roselle's POM top housing does not offer the same level of translucency, limiting its ability to showcase RGB lighting effects. This difference in visual appeal may be a deciding factor for users who prioritize the aesthetic aspect of their mechanical keyboards.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch can each contribute unique qualities. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch can result in varied typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, whether one prefers the deep and muted sound of POM or the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate will depend on individual typing preferences and priorities.
Weight
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Roselle also has a lighter force of 52 grams compared to the Shadow's 63 grams. Therefore, the Roselle is lighter both in actuation and bottom out force. This means that the Roselle may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Roselle has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Roselle leaning towards the shallower end and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing a tad more depth. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Roselle with its shorter travel distance, while those seeking a more substantial key press experience may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 low-pitched and bassy typing experience, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, giving off a sharp and crisp tone with each press. Depending on personal preference, the Roselle switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper and mellow sound, while the Shadow switch is ideal for individuals who prefer a sharper and more percussive typing sound.
In terms of feel, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is praised for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless key press without any sense of resistance. This switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized by its sharp and accented tactile bump, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, the Shadow switch is known for its snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel, giving users a responsive and lively typing experience.
Overall, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Roselle switch provides a smooth and bassy typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, the Shadow switch delivers a sharp and clacky typing sound with a strong and accented tactile bump. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, ensuring that users can select the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences for a customized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. Opt for the Roselle if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, choose the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring if you enjoy a higher level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks. The Roselle offers a frictionless and mild feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, or stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on whether you prioritize smoothness and a neutral sound vs. tactility and a clacky, high-pitched sound. Consider your typing style and preferences when selecting the switch that best suits your needs.
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