HC Studio Crabapple vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Dragon Fruit offer unique typing experiences to suit different preferences. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture with each downstroke. Its mild and understated sound signature sets it apart as a quieter option for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit, a tactile switch with a long pole stem, offers a sharp and definitive bottom-out that tactility enthusiasts will appreciate. With a significant tactile bump and a clacky sound signature, the Dragon Fruit provides a lively and engaging typing experience that is both felt and heard distinctly. These switches are categorized differently: the Crabapple as frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured, and the Dragon Fruit as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Dragon Fruit keyboards offer different experiences due to their housing materials. While the Crabapple features a POM top housing, creating a pleasing and deep sound profile, the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The tactile experience of typing on these keyboards will significantly differ due to the characteristics of the top housing materials. The use of POM in the Crabapple provides a more muted sound compared to the more resonant sound generated by the polycarbonate in the Dragon Fruit.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Crabapple utilizes POM, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Conversely, the Bsun Dragon Fruit employs a nylon bottom housing that captures a duller and rounder sound profile. These distinct material choices contribute to the overall typing experience on each keyboard. The combination of POM and nylon in the bottom housings of the Crabapple and Dragon Fruit keyboards, respectively, further enhances the differences in sound and feel when using these switches.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom components of a switch impacts the overall typing experience on the Crabapple and Dragon Fruit keyboards. The qualities of the bottom housing material influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the keys, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each material contributes to the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences. While the Crabapple and Dragon Fruit offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences due to their housing materials, users can achieve similar results based on the specific characteristics of the materials used in each keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch present clear differences in weight. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Dragon Fruit has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Crabapple offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for prolonged use, while the Dragon Fruit provides a more substantial push feel for those seeking a heavier typing experience. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Overall, the Crabapple is lighter in comparison to the Dragon Fruit, offering users different options based on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, we can see that the Crabapple has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Dragon Fruit's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Dragon Fruit for faster response times. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the keypress, the Crabapple may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer a similar experience with only a slight difference in travel distance.
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 Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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 Crabapple switch offers a subdued and mild sound signature, providing a quieter typing experience compared to more clacky switches. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit switch has a distinct clacky sound that adds liveliness to the typing experience, making each key press audible and engaging. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps they are paired with, further shaping the overall auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and textured qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback felt with each press. In contrast, the Dragon Fruit switch provides a more invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a pronounced bump at each press that satisfies tactile enthusiasts. The switch's snappy feel adds to the immersive typing sensation, creating a more responsive and lively experience compared to the Crabapple.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Crabapple provides a quieter and smoother typing experience with a subtle texture, while the Dragon Fruit delivers a more audibly engaging and tactile typing experience with a sharp bump at each press. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, selecting between these switches would depend on whether you prioritize a quieter and smoother typing experience or a more engaging and tactile one.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a mild sound signature, then the Crabapple switch crafted from POM may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force, a sharp tactile bump at each press, and a clacky sound signature that offers an invigorating and engaging typing experience, the Dragon Fruit switch with its long pole stem may be more suitable for your needs. Take into account your desired level of tactility, sound preference, and typing feel to make an informed decision between these two unique mechanical keyboard switches.
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