HC Studio Roselle vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Roselle and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as two excellent linear options, each offering a distinct typing experience for enthusiasts. The Roselle switches are celebrated for their inherently smooth feel, attributed to a unique material blend that delivers an ethereal, wispy sensation with every keystroke, complemented by a subtle low-pitched sound that provides a mildly satisfying acoustic backdrop. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches utilize innovative ball-bearing technology, significantly reducing friction during key presses to create an exceptionally smooth typing experience characterized by a medium-high pitched sound signature. Choosing the Roselles may appeal to those who prioritize a mellow acoustic profile and an almost ethereal keystroke sensation, while the Pearls may be favored by users who enjoy the advanced engineering of reduced friction and a slightly brighter sound. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HC Studio Roselle and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches exhibit notable differences in their housing materials, with the Roselle utilizing POM (Polyoxymethylene) and the WS Pearl utilizing nylon. Both materials are praised for delivering a deeper, fuller sound profile while also providing a muted auditory experience. The POM top and bottom housings of the Roselle are noted for their unique sound signature that leans on the deeper side, lending an incredibly pleasing quality to each keystroke. In contrast, the nylon used in the WS Pearl is recognized for its classic status in switch manufacturing, offering a slightly different tactile experience. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound that distinguishes it from the POM canisters in the Roselle.
Despite their material differences, both switches can produce similar auditory results due to their shared focus on mirroring deeper sound characteristics. The POM top housing of the Roselle generates a unique aural signature, while the WS Pearl’s nylon top housing also amplifies a fuller sound profile. Each switch’s sound is a result of the collaboration between the top and bottom housings, where the Roselle’s POM pieces enhance the overall richness of the sound and the WS Pearl’s nylon delivers a warmer, rounder effect. The interplay between these materials ensures that players who prioritize deeper sound experiences can find satisfaction in either design.
Furthermore, the dynamic between the different materials impacts the overall user experience when typing. In the Roselle, the POM bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon in the WS Pearl achieves a similar result through its sound-absorption properties. This means that while POM might provide a more precise auditory experience, nylon’s softer design offers a comparably satisfying typing experience via its ability to absorb sound. Therefore, though users may perceive audible differences when typing on each switch, both the HC Studio Roselle and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl can ultimately deliver a gratifying auditory sensation rooted in their commitment to crafting a deep and immersive sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Roselle features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, although it has a slightly higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while the Pearl is easier to press down to register a keystroke, it requires a bit more force to fully bottom out compared to the Roselle. As a result, those who prefer lighter switches for long typing sessions might gravitate towards the WS Pearl, while those seeking a stronger push feel might find the Roselle's balance more appealing. Ultimately, the Roselle is heavier in terms of actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the WS Pearl stands out for its lighter keypress, making it more suitable for extended use without fatigue.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Roselle the longer option by 0.1 mm, which may contribute to a more pronounced tactile experience for users who prefer a deeper key press. In contrast, the WS Pearl’s shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking quicker response times, especially popular among gamers. Both switches fall below the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, aligning with the trend towards more responsive designs. Thus, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the WS Pearl is the better choice, whereas the Roselle may provide a more satisfying depth for users who enjoy a heftier keystroke.
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 Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 evaluating the sound qualities of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you'll notice a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that gives it a mellow and rich character. This deeper bassy tone provides a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. The sound profile can be described as neutral, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a higher-pitched sound, which is markedly different from the deeper tones of the Roselle. While specific descriptions of the WS Pearl's sound signature were not provided, the combination of its unique ball-bearing mechanics and renowned smoothness suggests that it produces a clean and crisp sound, potentially with a more pronounced auditory character compared to the Roselle.
In terms of feel, the Roselle switches stand out for their frictionless experience. This means that when typing, you can expect a fluid travel with minimal resistance, making each keystroke effortlessly smooth. The mild characteristic further emphasizes its approachability, providing a typing experience that caters to both casual users and enthusiasts alike. Meanwhile, while the specific feel of the WS Pearl isn't detailed, the involvement of ball-bearings is indicative of an exceptionally smooth keystroke, potentially on par with or even exceeding the Roselle's smoothness. This design feature is known to enhance the overall tactile feedback, although a direct comparison in terms of specific descriptors for texture or resistance isn't available.
Considering all these factors, both switches offer a unique appeal. The HC Studio Roselle excels with its deep, rich auditory profile and an incredibly smooth typing experience that feels forgiving and mild. The Wuque Studio WS Pearl, while presenting a higher-pitched sound, promises a similarly smooth experience due to its innovative ball-bearing design. Therefore, while the two switches differ in sound profile and specifics, they share a common thread of providing a smooth typing experience, catering to users who prioritize fluid keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal preference in sound and subtle tactile differences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HC Studio Roselle and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches, your decision should be guided by your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a lighter touch and appreciate a smooth, almost ethereal typing experience, the Roselle is your best bet. Its unique material blend not only enhances the smoothness of your keystrokes but also provides a subtle, low-pitched sound profile that is both satisfying and suitable for quieter environments. This makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, whether you're writing or gaming, as the frictionless nature of the switch reduces fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer keystroke with a more pronounced tactile feel, the WS Pearl, with its medium actuation force and innovative ball-bearing mechanism, may be more to your liking. The ball-bearing design ensures an incredibly smooth action while delivering a medium-high pitched sound that could enhance your gaming or typing experience, particularly if you enjoy a bit more auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice comes down to the tactile feedback you prefer and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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