HC Studio Crabapple vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options to compare and contrast are the HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch, and the Everglide Crystal Violet, a tactile switch. The Crabapple switches, crafted entirely from POM, offer an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture during downstrokes. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switches from Everglide feature a light operating force of 45g, providing a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel. While the Crabapple switch has a mild and understated sound signature, the Crystal Violet switch offers a pleasantly mellow and low-pitched sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches differ in their composition. The Crabapple features POM top and bottom housings, known for creating a deeper, more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal Violet utilizes ABS for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a relatively low-pitched sound when typing. While POM is unique for switch housings, ABS is more commonly found in keycaps but provides a distinct sound profile as well.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Crabapple and Crystal Violet switches aim to provide a pleasing typing experience. The use of POM in the Crabapple contributes to a deeper sound profile, which may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the ABS housings of the Crystal Violet offer a low-pitched sound that may be favorable to users seeking a different auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to individual preferences.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housings on switch performance, the Crabapple and Crystal Violet demonstrate how these components contribute to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their different housing materials, both switches prioritize delivering a satisfying typing experience by utilizing unique material compositions in their construction. Whether one prefers the deeper sound of POM or the lower pitch of ABS, both the Crabapple and Crystal Violet switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to various user preferences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch. The Crabapple requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Crystal Violet needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, placing it in the medium-light category. Those who prefer a more effortless typing experience may find the Crabapple more suitable, while individuals seeking a slightly more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Crystal Violet. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences based on their force requirements, ensuring users can find a switch that best matches their preferences for typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it is clear that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Crystal Violet's 4 mm. The difference may seem minor, but it can have a significant impact on the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Crabapple may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Crystal Violet may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued sound profile with a dampened tone when pressed, providing a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch presents a low-pitched sound, leaning towards the mellow and bass-heavy spectrum, creating a pleasant and non-intrusive auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch offers a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke, providing a smooth and effortless journey. In contrast, the Crystal Violet switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience, with a stepped tactile feel that offers a gentle and comfortable sensation. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple focusing on a smooth and frictionless feel with a subdued sound, while the Crystal Violet offers a creamy and stepped tactile experience with a low-pitched sound. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch by considering factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a frictionless and subtly textured typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Crabapple switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a creamy and stepped tactile feel with a medium-light bottom out force, the Crystal Violet switch could be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider your sound and feel preferences, as well as your preferred operating force, when making your decision between these two unique switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Crabapple and Crystal Violet switches comes down to what feels best for you as you navigate the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
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