HC Studio Roselle vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle, a linear switch, to the Haimu Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Roselle is praised for its ultra-smooth and ethereal typing experience, with a subtle low-pitched sound that adds a unique touch to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is known for its punchy and thuddy sound profile, along with a perfect balance of tactility that provides satisfying feedback without being overly pronounced. While the Roselle offers a neutral and frictionless typing experience, the Viola Tricolor provides an invigorating and accented sensation. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Roselle features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Viola Tricolor utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual aesthetic to the switch that the POM top housing lacks.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Roselle and Viola Tricolor also differ. The Roselle uses a POM bottom housing, creating a sound profile that is pleasing and unique, while the Viola Tricolor incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Roselle.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch can greatly influence the sound and feel of typing. While the Roselle and Viola Tricolor have contrasting top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each material varies in the sound produced when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users choose a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is clear that the Roselle is the lighter option while the Viola Tricolor is the heavier option. The Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it medium-light in terms of pressure required. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has an actuation force that is not specified and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Roselle to be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier feel of the Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly shorter than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Roselle offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Roselle for this reason, as it can provide a faster key press. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth and feedback when typing. Overall, the Roselle offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Viola Tricolor, providing a slightly different typing experience depending on personal preference.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, with a unique sensation that is incredibly smooth and wispy. When it comes to sound, the Roselle produces a subtle, low-pitched sound that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a more pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, striking a perfect balance between feedback and comfort. The Viola Tricolor also offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to each key press. In terms of sound, both switches are described as having a bassy and low-pitched profile, which can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference. When it comes to feel, the Roselle is considered frictionless and mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor offers an invigorating and accented tactile feedback, creating a more immersive typing sensation without being too overwhelming. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with distinct options based on their preferences for typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a punchy, thuddy sound profile and a tactile typing experience with pronounced feedback, the Viola Tricolor could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and how each switch aligns with your desired typing experience.
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