HC Studio Roselle vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HC Studio Roselle and the Gateron Weightlessness stand out for their unique characteristics, catering to different typing preferences. The Roselle, a linear switch, is celebrated for its remarkably smooth actuation and airy feel, delivering a whisper-quiet typing experience thanks to its specially designed material blend. Users of the Roselle often appreciate its bassy undertones and frictionless movement, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fluid keystroke without the distraction of loud sounds. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a tactile feel that strikes a balance between subtle feedback and auditory comfort, appealing to typists who enjoy a more engaged typing experience without an overly pronounced bump. This switch is well-regarded for its moderate tactile feedback, making it suitable for a variety of tasks, from gaming to typing. Each switch has its merits, depending on whether you prefer the ethereal serenity of linear feedback or the gratifying pop of tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Gateron Weightlessness, it is essential to note the distinct characteristics of their respective materials. The Roselle features a top and bottom housing made from POM (Polyoxymethylene), which is known for producing a unique and pleasing sound profile. This material creates a deeper and more muted sound, giving the keyboard a rich auditory experience. In contrast, the Weightlessness incorporates nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, and typing on such switches produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials promote a sound that leans towards a deeper tone, the POM housing of the Roselle might produce a sound that is slightly more muted compared to the rounder and fuller sound achieved with the nylon material.
Despite the differences in housing materials, there are similarities in the resulting sound profiles of both switches. The POM housing of the Roselle absorbs sound effectively, leading to a rich sound experience without being overly sharp. Similarly, the nylon of the Weightlessness also serves to dampen sound, which can result in a pleasant typing experience that minimizes unwanted noise. Therefore, while the material types vary—POM versus nylon—the end results in terms of sound quality exhibit some overlaps, as both materials are designed to absorb sound and offer a depth that enhances the overall typing experience.
In terms of tactile feedback and the physical sensation while typing, the impact of the housing materials on bottom-out sound and feel is worth considering. The bottom housing plays a critical role in determining the feel upon pressing a key, while the top housing affects the sound during a key release. Given that both switches utilize softer plastics in their housings, typing on either the Roselle or the Weightlessness can provide a satisfying bottom-out feel with a muted release sound. Therefore, despite their differing material compositions, both the HC Studio Roselle and Gateron Weightlessness can achieve a similar auditory and tactile experience, appealing to users who prioritize sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, it is clear that their actuation forces differ, with the Roselle requiring a force of 45 grams and the Weightlessness demanding a slightly heavier 50 grams. This indicates that the Roselle is the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it may lead to less finger fatigue. Conversely, the Weightlessness, with its heavier actuation force, might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Regarding the bottom out force, the Roselle has a measurable bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Weightlessness does not have this information available. Therefore, while the actuation forces differ, only the Roselle provides a specified bottom out force, making it easier for users to determine the overall force dynamics of that switch. If a user prefers a switch with a tangible push and enjoys the feedback of a heavier touch, the Weightlessness may be the switch of choice, while those who value a lighter touch might want to lean towards the Roselle.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Roselle switch allows for a more pronounced keypress, making it potentially more appealing for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch offers a more responsive feel, which can be preferred by gamers seeking quicker actuation for faster response times. Ultimately, if you value a heartier depth in your keystrokes, the Roselle's longer travel distance may be the better choice, whereas the Weightlessness provides a more rapid engagement with its shorter distance.
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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 delivers a unique auditory experience characterized by a subtle low-pitched signature that is both mellow and bassy. This gives an impression of depth and richness in every keystroke, making it enjoyable for prolonged typing sessions. The neutral quality of the sound further allows these switches to be versatile enough for different environments, whether at home or in an office setting. Conversely, the sound profile of the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch remains unknown, but it typically aims for a balanced sound that complements its tactile features. It is reasonable to assume that, like the Roselle, it could provide a pleasing auditory experience, although specifics may vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Roselle switch offers an impressively frictionless typing experience that feels incredibly smooth and fluid. This absence of resistance allows users to glide effortlessly from key to key, creating a mild typing sensation that is approachable for both newcomers and seasoned users alike. The gentle nature of the Roselle makes it a great choice for those who prefer light key presses without any harsh feedback. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch isn't explicitly defined, but generally, tactile switches provide a noticeable bump during actuation that can enhance the typing experience. While the precise characteristics of the Weightlessness remain unclear, it’s reasonable to expect it to deliver a distinctive tactile sensation that stands in contrast to the more linear feel of the Roselle.
In conclusion, both the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offer unique qualities suited for different preferences. The Roselle excels in delivering a smooth, low-pitched auditory experience alongside a fluid typing feel, making it ideal for those seeking an effortless and mellow typing experience. While the Weightlessness might not have specified qualities, its balanced sound profile and potential tactile feedback may cater to users who appreciate a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual typing preferences and the specific ambiance one desires while at the keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HC Studio Roselle linear switches and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches largely hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re someone who values a smooth, almost effortless typing experience, the Roselle switches are an excellent choice with their medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams and frictionless feel. The ethereal smoothness, combined with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, creates a unique tactile pleasure that's particularly appealing for long typing sessions or gaming where speed is key. On the other hand, if you're looking for a balance of tactile feedback without a heavy keystroke, the Gateron Weightlessness switches might suit you better. Though the bottom-out force is unspecified, their subtle to moderate tactile sensation will provide a pleasant feel without overwhelming feedback, perfect for a more nuanced typing experience that still delivers clarity in each press. In essence, opt for the Roselle switches if you prioritize speed and sound, while the Weightlessness switches are ideal if you prefer a gentler yet distinct tactile experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you find most comfortable and satisfying for your typing needs.
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