HC Studio Roselle vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference and typing style. The HC Studio Roselle switches stand out with their unique material blend, providing an impressively smooth tactile experience that feels almost weightless while typing. In addition to their frictionless motion, they offer a subtle low-pitched sound that adds a pleasant auditory dimension to the typing experience, making them an appealing option for those seeking a quieter workspace. Conversely, the HMX SU switches are distinguished by their robust construction, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, delivering a deeper sound profile that caters to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth actuation, their distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences offer different advantages depending on your 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle and the HMX SU’s housing materials, the most notable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Roselle features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is designed to create a unique and pleasing sound profile characterized by a deeper and more muted tone. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing that is recognized as a classic; its softer material contributes to a fuller sound profile, absorbing sound more effectively than harder plastics. This fundamental difference in material composition shapes the auditory experience when typing, with POM offering a distinctive timbre compared to the rounder, deeper sounds afforded by nylon.
The bottom housings of the two switches exhibit a similar trend, with both the Roselle and the HMX SU using POM and nylon, respectively. As with the top housing, the POM bottom housing of the Roselle offers a deep and muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the SU similarly provides a deeper and fuller sound. The characteristics of these materials play a crucial role in the overall acoustic environment created by the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing significantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, establishing a sense of tactile and auditory responsiveness.
Ultimately, while the Roselle and HMX SU switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, they share the goal of producing a deep sound profile. If the intention is to achieve similar results in terms of sound characteristics, the split between POM and nylon in the respective housing constructions allows each switch to emphasize particular auditory qualities. Users can expect a satisfying auditory experience regardless of the differences, as the interplay of materials across both switches ensures that the combined effects of the top and bottom housings will generate pleasing acoustic outcomes characteristic of their designs.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users can expect a similar ease of triggering keystrokes with either switch. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly: the Roselle has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the SU is a bit lighter at 50 grams. This indicates that while both switches require the same effort to activate, the Roselle provides a firmer experience when fully pressed down, making it feel heavier overall. Consequently, the HC Studio Roselle switch can be preferred by those who seek a more substantial typing experience, while the HMX SU, being the lighter option, is likely a better fit for users who value comfort during prolonged use, such as in long typing sessions or extensive gaming.
Travel distance
Both the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that their actuation distances are identical. This similarity in travel distance indicates that users will experience comparable feedback and actuation when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Consequently, both switches provide a consistent feel, ensuring that users can expect the same keypress travel length regardless of which switch they choose. With this equal measurement, one would achieve similar results in terms of typing or gaming experience between the two options.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 is characterized by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that leans towards being bassy. This deeper tone adds richness to each keystroke, creating an immersive typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a more resonant auditory feedback. The sound produced by the Roselle is described as neutral, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. In contrast, while the HMX SU linear switch also boasts a relatively deep sound profile due to its PA12 housing and T5 stem configuration, specific descriptors or reviews of its sound characteristics are absent. However, it can be inferred that the SU will likely deliver a satisfying auditory experience, allowing users to appreciate the balance between rich and moderate sound signatures.
In terms of feel, the Roselle excels with its frictionless design, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. This sensation minimizes any resistance during key presses, enhancing typing fluidity and comfort, which is particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switch's mild characteristics make it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided regarding the feel of the HMX SU linear switch, leaving a gap in the comparison. Nonetheless, one could anticipate that the SU might share similar smoothness and comfort, given that linear switches generally aim for a seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HC Studio Roselle and the HMX SU linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Roselle stands out with its ethereally smooth feel, low-pitched sound, and mild characteristics, catering to a wide range of typing preferences. Meanwhile, while information about the HMX SU's feel remains unknown, its deep sound profile promises an engaging auditory experience. For those seeking a linear switch, both options can deliver satisfying results, particularly if matched with suitable keycaps and a well-chosen keyboard. Ultimately, if you're inclined towards a smooth and deep sound signature, both switches can provide rewarding experiences, although the Roselle currently holds more defined and curated attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle switch is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams allows for comfortable typing, and the bassy sound can enhance your overall experience, making it ideal for both casual typing and focused work. On the other hand, if you're looking for something lighter with a bit of depth in sound, the HMX SU switch, with its 50 grams of actuation force and full PA12 housing, might be better suited for you. While the sound isn't specified in detail, its more subtle deep profile can still provide a satisfying auditory feedback during use. Ultimately, you should select the switch that aligns best with the typing atmosphere you seek—be it the silky sensation of the Roselles or the gently rich tone of the SUs, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience tailored to your needs.
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