HC Studio Roselle vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent options stand out: the HC Studio Roselle, known for its ultra-smooth feel and low-pitched sound, and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, designed for gamers with its light actuation force and pleasing bassy sound. The Roselle switch boasts a unique smoothness that comes from its material blend, providing a frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch offers gamers an easy-to-press and creamy feel, perfect for swift and precise keystrokes during intense gaming sessions. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and advantages, making them appealing choices for different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Akko V3 Silver Pro provide different sound profiles due to the use of POM and polycarbonate for the top housing, respectively. While the POM top housing of the Roselle creates a deeper and more muted sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it suitable for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. Overall, the choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing will greatly impact the sound experience of the keyboard.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Roselle uses POM while the V3 Silver Pro uses nylon. POM bottom housings on the Roselle create a deep and pleasing sound profile, while nylon bottom housings on the V3 Silver Pro elicit a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to the relatively stiffer POM, resulting in a different typing experience. The bottom housing material can play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
When both the top and bottom housings are considered together, it is evident that the materials used contribute differently to the sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how POM, polycarbonate, and nylon affect the sound produced by the switches can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch. The Roselle requires 45 grams to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro only needs 40 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter switch. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Roselle may provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the lighter forces of the V3 Silver Pro may be more suitable for those who prefer a smoother and lighter keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer than the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Roselle offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the V3 Silver Pro. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press might lean towards the Roselle. Both switches provide a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 HC Studio Roselle linear switch is best known for its low-pitched and bassy sound signature, offering a deeper and richer tone that adds a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch boasts a high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each keystroke, which may cater more to those who prefer a brighter tone during typing sessions. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, depending on individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch stands out for its frictionless and mild typing experience, providing smooth and effortless key presses with minimal resistance. This offers a comfortable and approachable typing feel that many users may find appealing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is designed with an easy-to-press and creamy feel, offering a light actuation force and a smooth, buttery typing sensation that can reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the feathery, polished, and silky qualities of the V3 Silver Pro switch further enhance the overall typing experience by providing a refined and comfortable feel for various use cases.
In conclusion, both the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Roselle excels in providing a bassy sound and a frictionless typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro enhances the typing experience with a creamy feel and light actuation force. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, as both switches can deliver satisfying results based on the desired user experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Roselle linear switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are key factors to keep in mind. If you prioritize a medium-light bottom out force and an exceptionally smooth and ethereal typing experience with a subtle low-pitched sound, the Roselle may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a pleasing bassy sound with effortless keystrokes, the V3 Silver Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and how each switch aligns with your typing or gaming needs.
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