HC Studio Roselle vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle, a linear switch, to the Durock T1, a tactile switch, it's clear that each offers unique advantages for different preferences. The Roselle stands out for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and subtle low-pitched sound, providing a frictionless and bassy feel that is hard to beat. On the other hand, the T1 offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Roselle is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Frictionless', the T1 is described as 'Stepped' and 'Accented'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Durock T1 switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different properties. The POM top housing of the Roselle creates a more muted and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound can impact the overall typing experience, with the Roselle offering a softer sound and the T1 providing a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Roselle and T1 switches also contribute to their sound profiles. The POM bottom housing of the Roselle offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the T1 produces a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound profile compared to the more resonant sound of POM. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing feel and sound feedback of the switches, catering to different preferences.
Overall, the housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Durock T1 switches showcase the impact of different plastics on sound profiles. While the Roselle offers a pleasing and unique sound with its POM housings, the T1 provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housings. Likewise, the bottom housings of the switches contribute to their sound profiles, with the POM bottom housing of the Roselle offering a deeper sound and the nylon bottom housing of the T1 providing a fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Roselle has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the T1 has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The Roselle would be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the T1 would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel and keypress feedback.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the T1 has a longer travel distance compared to the Roselle. A 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Roselle may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the T1 may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch also features a low-pitched sound that resembles the mellow tones of rain falling on a window. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard platform and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Roselle linear switch stands out for its frictionless typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless key press that minimizes resistance. The feel of the Roselle switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that should be comfortable for most users. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch is characterized by its stepped tactile feel, providing a two-stage sensation with pre-travel and post-travel stages. Additionally, the T1 switch is accented with a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a polished typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch excels in delivering a smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between the Roselle and T1 switches will depend on whether you prefer a linear switch with a smooth feel and bassy sound or a tactile switch with a stepped feel and rain-like sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a super comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and a low-pitched sound (Roselle) or comfort and tactile feedback (T1) in your mechanical keyboard switch. Consider your preferences and typing style to choose the switch that best fits your needs.
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