HC Studio Crabapple vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch, and the Bsun Hutt, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, offers a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke, resulting in a mild and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the Hutt switch features a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, providing a snappy and invigorating typing experience with a balanced sound profile. While the Crabapple switch is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured', the Hutt switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Accented', and 'Resonant'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Hutt switches present distinct differences in terms of sound profile. The Crabapple's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, whereas the Hutt's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Crabapple offering a more subtle typing sound compared to the Hutt's more pronounced and clear sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the two switches also differ significantly. The Crabapple's POM bottom housing maintains its pleasing and unique sound profile, while the Hutt's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the use of translucent polycarbonate in the Hutt's top housing allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a visually striking element to the switch. This difference in material choice not only impacts sound but also plays a role in the overall design and customization options for users.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Crabapple and the Hutt switches both play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch. Whether it is the POM top and bottom housing of the Crabapple or the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Hutt, each material brings its unique characteristics to the typing experience. Both switches offer users a chance to customize their sound and aesthetic preferences based on the housing materials chosen, allowing for a personalized typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall on the lighter end of the force spectrum. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Hutt has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 49 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing. While the Crabapple is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, the difference may not be significant enough to result in a noticeable variance in typing feel. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces when using either of these switches.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market, especially among gamers looking for quick response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users, but for those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more traditional typing feel, the Crabapple switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more responsive key press, the Hutt tactile switch with its shorter travel distance may be the way to go.Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound profile that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Hutt tactile switch provides a resonant and sharp sound experience with a higher-pitched sound profile. The choice of keycaps and keyboard board can also influence the sound produced by each switch, so it is important to consider these factors when deciding on which one to use.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. In contrast, the Hutt tactile switch offers a snappy, invigorating, and sharp tactile feel with a pronounced feedback and a prominent tactile bump. The Hutt switch falls into the category of accented switches, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how you prefer your typing experience to feel.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple provides a smoother and subtler typing journey with a mild sound profile, while the Hutt offers a more tactile and responsive typing experience with a resonant sound profile. Depending on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch and your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing journey with a subtle sound profile, opt for the Crabapple. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a prominent tactile bump and a balanced sound profile, the Hutt switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a frictionless and mild feel or a snappy and invigorating feel when typing.
Mentioned in this article
