Everglide Bamboo Green vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the Everglide Bamboo Green and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Bamboo Green, a tactile switch, to the HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Bamboo Green is known for its clacky sound signature and crisp, sparkling tactility, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Crabapple is crafted from POM and offers a frictionless typing journey with a subtle texture felt on each downstroke, perfect for those who prefer a smooth and understated typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PBT
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Everglide Bamboo Green and HC Studio Crabapple switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Bamboo Green featuring PBT for both while the Crabapple uses POM. The PBT top housing of the Bamboo Green offers a neutral sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Crabapple creates a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of the bottom housing, both the PBT of the Bamboo Green and the POM of the Crabapple contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, with the POM housing providing a more unique and pleasing sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Everglide Bamboo Green and HC Studio Crabapple switches may be different materials, they each offer their own distinct qualities to the overall switch experience. The PBT bottom housing of the Bamboo Green and the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple both play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with the neutral sound profile of the PBT top housing contrasting with the deeper and more muted sound of the POM top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Bamboo Green and HC Studio Crabapple switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the PBT of the Bamboo Green providing a more neutral sound and the POM of the Crabapple offering a deeper and more muted sound. Despite the differences in housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of overall sound and feel from both switches, with the top and bottom housings combining to create a balanced and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter in both aspects. The Bamboo Green requires an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Crabapple only needs 37 grams. Additionally, the Bamboo Green has a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Crabapple's bottom out force is only 45 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch provides a lighter typing experience overall. Some may prefer this lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Bamboo Green for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it is clear that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Bamboo Green's 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can significantly impact the feel and performance of the switch. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a shallower keypress, the Crabapple may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Bamboo Green may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a bit more depth and cushioning when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Bamboo Green has an MSRP of $9.67 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bamboo Green for $7.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that may suit those who prefer a more distinctive typing sound. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch provides a subdued sound, offering a more muted and subtle typing experience that is less likely to disturb others in a shared workspace.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Bamboo Green switch is described as having a stepped, accented, sharp, and polished tactile feedback, providing a prominent but refined tactile sensation that is both distinct and smooth. In contrast, the HC Studio Crabapple switch offers a frictionless, mild, and textured typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses with a gentle touch and minimal resistance.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Everglide Bamboo Green switch and the HC Studio Crabapple switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bamboo Green switch excels in providing a sharp and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound profile, the Crabapple switch prioritizes a smooth and frictionless typing journey with a more subdued auditory feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on personal preference, with the Bamboo Green offering a more pronounced and tactile experience, while the Crabapple provides a smoother and gentler typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, consider your preferences in typing experience. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, clacky sound, and sharp tactile feedback, the Bamboo Green may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a smooth and frictionless typing journey, and a mild and subdued sound profile, the Crabapple switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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