KTT Ash Gray vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable but not overwhelming, providing a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless typing experience due to its POM construction, offering a smooth yet textured feel that is both dry and satisfying. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Crabapple switch is classified as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured'. Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, whether you value a more tactile typing experience or a smoother, frictionless feel. 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
38g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and HC Studio Crabapple both offer unique characteristics when it comes to their housing materials. The Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Crabapple's POM top housing which offers a deeper and more muted sound. However, both materials are known for their translucency, making them ideal for switches if RGB lighting is a priority. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray may have a more modern and sleek look, while the POM top housing of the Crabapple may give off a more classic and understated vibe.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, absorbing more sound and creating a duller but rounder sound. This contrasts with the Crabapple's POM bottom housing, which also provides a deep and muted sound, creating a unique typing experience. Despite the difference in materials, both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch and can impact the feel of bottoming out a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and HC Studio Crabapple play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. While the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a clearer and fuller sound, the Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings provide a deeper and more muted sound experience. However, regardless of the differences, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray requires a slightly higher actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Crabapple's 37 grams. However, the Ash Gray also has a higher bottom out force of 53 grams in comparison to the Crabapple's 45 grams. This means that the Ash Gray provides a more tactile and substantial typing experience due to its heavier force requirements, while the Crabapple offers a lighter touch which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, the Ash Gray has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Crabapple's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. Gamers looking for a quick and responsive feel may prefer the Ash Gray, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Crabapple. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, the Ash Gray is considered neutral, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Crabapple switch is described as subdued, providing a quieter and more understated sound experience. It is important to note that the actual sound produced by the switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is lauded for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a gentle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. It is also described as mild, offering a comfortable typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Conversely, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and textured qualities, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness. Although mild in feel, the Crabapple switch provides a unique tactile sensation with each keystroke.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray and HC Studio Crabapple switches each have their own distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray offers a blend of tactile feedback and a moderate sound profile, the Crabapple provides a smoother typing journey with a more subdued sound. Depending on individual preferences for typing experience, users can choose between the light touch of the Ash Gray or the unique dry smoothness of the Crabapple for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, consider the factors of force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced, the Ash Gray might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Crabapple switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style and personal preferences for both sound and feel.
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