Durock Black Lotus vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Black Lotus and the HC Studio Crabapple both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precision, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. On the other hand, the Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness. While the Black Lotus has a 55g actuation weight and a unique light column for in-switch lighting, the Crabapple has a mild and understated sound signature with a subtle texture felt during each downstroke. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and HC Studio Crabapple both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound and feel. The Black Lotus utilizes a Modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Crabapple uses a POM top housing. The Black Lotus has a premium feel due to its housing material, while the Crabapple's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the materials differ, both switches offer a unique and pleasing typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Black Lotus features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Crabapple utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the specific materials differ, both switches aim to enhance the overall sound and typing experience for users. The bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the Durock Black Lotus and HC Studio Crabapple showcase different housing materials that cater to a unique sound profile and typing experience. While the Black Lotus utilizes a Modified PC and UPE Blend top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Crabapple features a POM top and bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches offer a premium feel and pleasing sound that is tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether it be the deeper sound profile of the Crabapple or the fuller sound profile of the Black Lotus, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch with a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus requires 63.5 grams, while the Crabapple only needs 45 grams. This indicates that the Black Lotus is heavier both in actuation and bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Crabapple is lighter in both aspects, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing experience and pressure sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Black Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. In terms of feel, the shorter travel distance of the Crabapple may provide a faster response time, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize quick actions. On the other hand, the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance may offer a more deliberate and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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 Black Lotus linear switch offers a sound signature that is currently unknown, while the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch provides a subdued sound profile that is not completely silent but offers a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can vary based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch is known for its silky and buttery smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a refined finish that enhances typing pleasure. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple switch boasts a frictionless feel that provides an effortlessly smooth typing journey with a subtle texture felt during each keystroke. Both switches fall within the category of mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, while the sound profile of the Black Lotus switch remains unknown, it is evident that both switches prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience. Whether you opt for the Durock Black Lotus or the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, you can expect a pleasant typing journey with reduced wobble, precise actuation, and a unique typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your preference for sound profile, as both switches excel in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a silky smooth and precise feel, and in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force, a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness, and a mild and understated sound signature, the Crabapple would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value the most.
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