HC Studio Crabapple vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Gold Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. The Crabapple offers a unique typing experience with its frictionless, dry smoothness and subtle textural feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a mild and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the Gold Brown boasts a balanced feel with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, perfect for individuals seeking a softer sound profile that is still noticeable. While these general comparisons can help guide your decision, delving deeper into the specific features and feel of each switch will ultimately help you determine which one is the best fit for your typing needs. So, 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Gold Brown, we see a clear distinction in the sound profiles they produce. The Crabapple's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gold Brown's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the POM housing providing a more subdued typing experience and the polycarbonate housing offering a more vibrant and lively sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience.
Another point of contrast between the two housing materials lies in their material composition. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. In comparison, the Gold Brown switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. This leads to a split in the qualities each material brings to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and more resonant sound.
Overall, while the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and TTC Gold Brown switches differ in terms of sound profile and material composition, they both aim to provide a unique typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound profile with the POM housing of the Crabapple or a sharper and crisper sound with the polycarbonate housing of the Gold Brown, both switches offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials. Additionally, the split in qualities between the top and bottom housings of the Gold Brown adds an extra dimension to the typing experience, allowing users to feel and hear the impact of each material as they type.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. The Crabapple's actuation force is lighter compared to the Gold Brown, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gold Brown's heavier actuation force offers a more deliberate and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple switch. The difference in travel distance can impact the typing experience, as a shorter travel distance may result in quicker response times, which is preferred by gamers, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique benefits, and selecting the one that aligns with your preferences will result in a satisfying 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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, creating a subtle and mild sound signature. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile with a moderate level of noise, making it suitable for various settings without being excessively loud. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience compared to other switches, with the Gold Brown having a slightly more rounded sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance when pressing the keys. It also has a mild and textured feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing sensation that is smooth and uniform. Additionally, it provides a balanced level of tactility without being too pronounced, giving users a satisfying typing experience without being overwhelming.
Overall, both the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Crabapple excels in providing a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subdued sound, the Gold Brown switch stands out for its balanced and buttery feel with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience (Crabapple) or a more tactile and balanced feel (Gold Brown). However, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that will satisfy most users looking for a reliable mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light touch, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch crafted from POM may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactile switch with a moderate actuation force and a satisfying bump, the TTC Gold Brown switch may be more suited to your preferences. Consider the sound and feel profiles described for each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and needs. Ultimately, the decision between the Crabapple and Gold Brown switches will depend on whether you prioritize a frictionless typing journey or a balanced tactile sensation.
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