HC Studio Roselle vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the HC Studio Roselle and the Dareu Snow, both linear switches. The Roselle is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth and ethereal feel, thanks to its unique material blend that provides a frictionless typing experience. Additionally, users appreciate the subtle, low-pitched sound signature that accompanies typing on the Roselle. On the other hand, the Snow switch offers a different experience with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. It is also known for its bouncy and thocky feel. Each switch has its own distinct qualities and characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HC Studio Roselle and the Dareu Snow both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Roselle utilizing POM for both the top and bottom housing, while the Snow uses POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POM material in the Roselle creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the POK material in the Snow contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches. Additionally, the Snow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing in the Roselle.
In terms of durability, the Dareu Snow's POK material is exceptionally strong, with wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM, as well as shock resistance surpassing Nylon. On the other hand, the Roselle's bottom POM housing also offers a unique sound profile, with a deeper and more muted tone. The nylon bottom housing in the Snow absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Both switches offer different qualities based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel while typing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Roselle and Snow switches differ in material, they each offer unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the smooth, clacky feel of the Snow with its POK top housing or the pleasing and unique sound profile of the Roselle with its POM housing, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Roselle has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, whereas the Snow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category, with the Roselle being on the lighter side and the Snow on the heavier side. Those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Roselle, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Snow. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced typing experience, with the Roselle being slightly lighter and the Snow being slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the Roselle offers a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Snow. Gamers looking for a more responsive feel may prefer the Snow, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial keypress may lean towards the Roselle. Overall, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance, resulting in similar levels of performance despite the slight variance in their travel distances.
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 Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a deep and rich typing experience. This sound signature is complemented by an incredibly smooth and ethereal feel, making typing on the Roselle a unique and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch also offers a deep and thocky sound, emphasizing a different yet equally enjoyable typing experience. Both switches provide a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of uses, whether at home or in a work setting. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the Roselle switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. This provides a comfortable and approachable feel suitable for a broad range of users. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like and lively feedback to key presses. While the Roselle focuses on a smoother typing experience, the Snow prioritizes a more dynamic and responsive feel. Again, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences when it comes to typing feel.
Overall, both the HC Studio Roselle and Dareu Snow linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the deep and bassy sound of the Roselle or the thocky and bouncy feel of the Snow, both switches provide a neutral and versatile option suitable for a variety of typing environments. Experimenting with different switches, keycaps, and keyboards will further enhance the typing experience and allow you to customize your setup to your liking. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smoother, frictionless feel like the Roselle or a more dynamic, bouncy feel like the Snow.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you value a medium-light bottom out force, an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound profile, and a frictionless or mild typing experience, then the Roselle may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a deeper sound signature with a thocky or low-pitched tone, and a bouncy typing sensation, then the Snow switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel.
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