HC Studio Crabapple vs. TTC Flame Red

Overview

When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Flame Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, provides a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its mild and understated sound signature appeals to those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch stands out with its dazzling light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who want a visually striking backlit RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HC Studio Crabapple Linear

TTC Flame Red Linear

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Flame Red switches offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is deeper and more muted. In contrast, the Flame Red features nylon for both the top and bottom housing, creating a fuller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon. Despite their differences, both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.

While the Crabapple and the Flame Red switches share similar characteristics in their top and bottom housing materials, they also differ in some aspects. The POM housings of the Crabapple are known for creating a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side, whereas the nylon housings of the Flame Red offer a fuller sound profile that is deeper and absorbs more sound. The softer nature of nylon in the Flame Red results in a duller sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the Crabapple's POM housing.

Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Flame Red switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches utilize top and bottom housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and typing experience, with the Crabapple offering a more muted and deeper sound with its POM housing, while the Flame Red provides a fuller and rounder sound with its nylon housing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the specific sound profile desired by the user.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is clear that the Crabapple is the lighter option. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Flame Red's 45 grams. Similarly, the Crabapple has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Flame Red's 54 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Crabapple offers a lighter touch for those who prefer less resistance when typing. On the other hand, the Flame Red offers a slightly heavier feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the Crabapple is better suited for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Flame Red caters to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6mm, while the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. A 0.4mm might not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Crabapple, while those who like a more deliberate and deep key press may lean towards the Flame Red. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation despite the slight variation in travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience you are looking for.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound, creating a quiet and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile with a moderate level of noise, suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing environment.

In terms of feel, the Crabapple switch is characterized by its frictionless and effortless typing experience, with a mild and textured feel that offers a smooth and gentle keypress. Similarly, the Flame Red switch provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, coupled with a mild and polished feel that ensures a refined and sleek typing experience. While the Crabapple switch focuses on a frictionless journey, the Flame Red switch offers a weightier feel with a smoother and polished finish.

Overall, both the HC Studio Crabapple and TTC Flame Red linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple switch provides a quieter and textured typing experience, while the Flame Red switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a polished feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboarding experience. Ultimately, regardless of the choice, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch due to their high-quality construction and thoughtful design.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Crabapple if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a frictionless and dry smooth typing experience, a mild and understated sound profile, and a switch made entirely from POM. On the other hand, opt for the Flame Red if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, a dazzling light diffuser for backlit keyboards, and a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose based on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

HC Studio Crabapple Linear

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

Learn more

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more