HC Studio Roselle vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, one notable difference lies in their sound profiles. The Roselle is celebrated for its smooth and ethereally wispy feel, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound when typing. In contrast, the Sky V4 stands out for its deeper, thocky sound that complements its smooth linear action, providing a rich typing experience. While the Roselle is praised for its bassy and frictionless attributes, the Sky V4 offers a bouncy feel with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HC Studio Roselle and the Dareu Sky V4 both utilize unique materials for their housing components, with the Roselle featuring POM for both the top and bottom housings while the Sky V4 uses POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. While both POM and POK are known for their durability and smoothness, POM offers a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the clacky and smooth sound provided by POK. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when compared to POM.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Roselle and the Sky V4 offer exceptional durability and longevity. POK, with its wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM, ensures that the switches in the Sky V4 will withstand heavy use and remain smooth over time. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing in the Sky V4 provides a soft and absorbing material for a deeper sound profile, contributing to an overall pleasant typing experience. In contrast, POM in the Roselle creates a more muted sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience.
In terms of tactile feedback and sound, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the combination of POM and POK in the Roselle and the nylon used in the Sky V4 will result in distinct typing experiences, with the Roselle offering a more muted and deep sound profile compared to the clacky and fuller sound of the Sky V4. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Roselle requires 52 grams while the Sky V4 requires 55 grams. This makes the Roselle the lighter option in terms of bottoming out, as it requires less force to fully press the key. Weight considerations play a role here, as some users may prefer the lighter bottom out force of the Roselle for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Sky V4 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light feel overall, providing similar results with slight variations in bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When typing on either of these switches, users can expect to feel the same distance traveled when pressing down on a key. This similarity ensures that the typing experience on both switches will be consistent in terms of travel distance. Whether using the Roselle or the Sky V4, users can rely on a travel distance of 3.6 mm to provide a tactile and responsive typing experience.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 subtle, low-pitched sound signature that adds a touch of elegance to your typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a deeper and richer sound profile, with a thocky sound that is deeply satisfying. Depending on your preferences, the Roselle's bassy and low-pitched sound may be more appealing, while the Sky V4's thocky and neutral sound might be preferred for a different auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the HC Studio Roselle switch boasts a frictionless typing experience that is incredibly smooth and effortless, minimizing any sense of resistance when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives your keystrokes a lively and responsive feel. Whether you prefer the mild and frictionless feel of the Roselle or the bouncy feedback of the Sky V4 will depend on your personal typing style and comfort preferences.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Roselle excels in providing a smooth and ethereal typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Sky V4 stands out with its deeper and thocky sound accompanied by a bouncy feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience that enhances your overall enjoyment and productivity. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, and the choice between them will come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Roselle linear switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and ethereal typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound accompanied by a thocky typing feel with a bouncy feedback sensation, the Sky V4 could be more to your liking. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, making them suitable for a wide range of typing styles. Ultimately, it's important to consider how each switch aligns with your specific preferences for typing sound and feel when making your decision.
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