HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their distinct characteristics. The Crabapple, a linear switch, stands out for its POM construction that offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience. With a dry smoothness and subtle texture with each keystroke, the Crabapple emits a mild and understated sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, also a linear switch, is known for its budget-friendly excellence and higher pitched clacky sound profile. With a bouncy feel, it provides a polished and resonant typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that may 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
Both the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Crabapple's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate material in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also allows for RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Crabapple's POM material aligns with the top housing to create a cohesive sound experience that is deep and pleasing. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material further distinguishes the two switches in terms of overall sound and feel during typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Crabapple and G Pro 3.0 Yellow differ, they both play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during bottom-out sounds and feels, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch with a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a relatively light bottom out force for linear switches, with the Crabapple at 45 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow at 67 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch would be better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch would provide a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Crabapple may be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may provide a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its subdued and understated sound profile that provides a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a higher-pitched and resonant sound that adds a level of crispness to each keystroke. While the Crabapple switch creates a mild and dry sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch produces a clacky and bouncy sound that may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch boasts a frictionless and textured typing experience, offering smooth keypresses with minimal resistance. The switch's mild characteristics provide a comfortable middle-ground typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a sleek and buttery typing sensation. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a luxurious typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch provides a more subdued and frictionless typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a higher-pitched and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, as both switches excel in different aspects of the typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound profile, then the Crabapple switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a higher-pitched and resonant sound, along with a polished and creamy feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to make an informed decision on which switch would enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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