Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that offers a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, combined with a smooth tactile sensation that makes it ideal for those who enjoy a lively and audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle is a linear switch that is known for its incredibly smooth and wispy typing experience, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Cream Blue Pro excels in providing an accentuated and bouncy typing experience, the Roselle stands out for its frictionless and neutral feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them excellent choices for those seeking quality in the mechanical keyboard realm. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HC Studio Roselle, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Roselle incorporates POM for a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer distinct auditory experiences for users, with the polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound, and the POM offering a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. Similarly, the Roselle's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. While both switches utilize different materials for their bottom housings, they ultimately provide users with a similar experience in terms of sound depth and resonance. The use of nylon and POM in the bottom housings helps to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound profile for typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for a keyboard switch plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. Whether it be polycarbonate and POM for the top housing, or nylon and POM for the bottom housing, each material brings its own unique characteristics to the overall typing experience. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HC Studio Roselle may differ in their housing materials, they both aim to provide users with a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience through the careful selection of materials that impact sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams. This means that while both switches have a medium-light actuation force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro will provide a slightly firmer typing experience when bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Roselle may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much finger fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who value quicker response times. The Roselle switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial keypress feel compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches offer a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that pairs well with their creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switches are known for producing a subtle, low-pitched sound signature during typing. While the Cream Blue Pro switches lean towards a more vibrant and pronounced sound, the Roselle switches offer a mellower and deeper tone that may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are recognized for their accented tactility, bouncy feedback, and polished finish, providing a tactile yet smooth typing experience. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switches are described as frictionless and mild, offering an effortless and gentle typing experience with a fluid key travel. While the Cream Blue Pro switches emphasize a balance of tactile feedback and smoothness, the Roselle switches prioritize a seamless and comfortable typing feel that may suit users preferring a more relaxed keypress.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches excel in delivering a vibrant and tactile typing experience with a lively sound profile, making them a solid choice for users who enjoy a tactile bump during key presses. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switches offer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, appealing to those seeking a more subdued and frictionless keypress. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to varying user needs within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether one prioritizes a more pronounced tactile feedback and lively sound or a smoother, quieter typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you should take into account the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you value a tactile sensation with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch should be your go-to choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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