HC Studio Roselle vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Roselle and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, two notable options to consider are the HC Studio Roselle and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Roselle is acclaimed for its incredibly smooth and ethereal feel, with a subtle low-pitched sound when typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design, dual-rail structure, and ability to absorb sound, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a silent typing experience. 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
N/A
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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Roselle and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer contrasting sound profiles based on the materials used. The Roselle's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the Roselle providing a more soothing sound while the Zero Degree 0° offers a more vibrant and pronounced typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Zero Degree 0° allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Roselle's POM bottom housing and the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing also offer distinct sound profiles. The POM bottom housing of the Roselle contributes to a deep and pleasing sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0° elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller but more resonant sound profile compared to the bottom housing of the Roselle. These differences in sound profile based on the bottom housing material can impact the overall typing feel and sound feedback of the switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the HC Studio Roselle and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° showcase the unique characteristics of POM and polycarbonate in their top housings. While the Roselle offers a more muted and soothing sound with its POM top housing, the Zero Degree 0° provides a sharper and crisper typing experience with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches bring their own distinct qualities to the table, and selecting between the two would depend on whether the user prefers a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, more resonant sound in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that they both have an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Roselle has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° does not provide information on bottom out force. This means that the Roselle is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Zero Degree 0°. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Roselle may be the better option, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Roselle may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Both the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. With identical travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. Whether choosing the Roselle or the Zero Degree 0°, users can enjoy a smooth typing experience with a consistent travel 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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
In terms of sound, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch stands out for its deep and rich bassy tone, with a subtle low-pitched sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, resulting in a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Roselle providing a more bass-heavy tone and the Zero Degree 0° focusing on minimizing noise for a quieter environment.
Moving on to the feel, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is praised for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering an incredibly smooth and effortless keypress with minimal resistance. This results in a fluid and pleasant typing sensation that appeals to a wide range of users. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its smoothness, stability, and soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound, providing a comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer a gentle and approachable typing feel, with the Roselle emphasizing a frictionless experience and the Zero Degree 0° focusing on stability and comfort.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch each have their unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Roselle offers a bassy sound profile and a frictionless typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes quietness and stability. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, typing feel, and the overall typing environment you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Roselle linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a medium-light bottom out force and seek an impossibly smooth and low-pitched typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Roselle may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise absorption due to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, the Zero Degree 0° could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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