HC Studio Crabapple vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HC Studio Crabapple and TTC Gold Red mechanical keyboard switches both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Crabapple switch, made entirely from POM, provides a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its mild and understated sound signature makes it a great choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being overpowering. While both switches have their strengths, the Crabapple is ideal for those who value a more textured and subdued typing feel, while the Gold Red appeals to those who prefer a smoother and slightly more tactile typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
The HC Studio Crabapple and TTC Gold Red both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Gold Red's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Crabapple's POM bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This allows the Gold Red to stand out visually with its clear housing, providing a unique look for those who value appearance. On the other hand, the Crabapple's POM housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal as the Gold Red, but it still provides a pleasing sound profile that is preferred by some users. Both switches prioritize sound quality but offer different visual experiences based on their housing materials.
When it comes to typing experience, the different housing materials of the Crabapple and Gold Red will impact the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Crabapple and Gold Red will offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their housing materials. Overall, both switches provide quality sound profiles and typing experiences, with the choice between POM and polycarbonate or nylon offering users the opportunity to customize their keyboard to their preferences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Gold Red linear switch. The Crabapple requires only 37 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 45 grams to bottom out, while the Gold Red needs 43 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. Both switches are considered light, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Crabapple may be slightly lighter in feel due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those looking for a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Gold Red may provide a slightly firmer push feel, appealing to users who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Red switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple switch. A 0.4 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the Gold Red switch may be the better option. On the other hand, the Crabapple switch with its shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound profile, providing a quiet typing experience that won't disturb others. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound signature, adding a satisfying and slightly more audible sound to your typing sessions. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple being quieter and the Gold Red being more distinct.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple linear switch provides a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. This switch minimizes resistance and offers a smooth and effortless typing journey. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing feel, providing a buttery smooth experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. Both switches offer gentle typing experiences with different subtle nuances that make the typing journey enjoyable.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch provides a quieter and frictionless typing experience, the Gold Red switch delivers a more distinct sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel. Depending on personal preference, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community. Whether you prefer a quieter and smoother typing journey or a slightly more audible and distinct typing experience, both switches will provide excellent performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Crabapple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing feel with a touch of snappiness and a rich, satisfying sound profile, the Gold Red could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer light bottom out forces, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Choose wisely based on your individual needs and enjoy your new mechanical keyboard experience.
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