HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Ink Box Pink mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that is complemented by a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch offers a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a clacky and silky smooth typing experience. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Ink Box Pink differ in terms of sound profile. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housing create a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing produce a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This difference in sound profile can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as some users may prefer a softer, more subdued sound while others may enjoy a crisper and more distinct sound.
Despite their differences, both the Crabapple and the Ink Box Pink utilize high-quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. The POM housings of the Crabapple are known for their pleasing and unique sound, while Gateron's proprietary INK blend provides a distinctive high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. Both housing materials aim to enhance the sound and feel of the switches, offering users a customizable typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile and tactility.
Ultimately, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Ink Box Pink will come down to personal preference. While the Crabapple's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend housing offers a sharper and clackier sound. Whether you prefer a softer, more subtle typing experience or a crisper, more pronounced sound, both switches provide high-quality housing materials that contribute to a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple switch is lighter while the Ink Box Pink switch is heavier. The Crabapple switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on the force required, with the Crabapple switch being lighter and the Ink Box Pink switch being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance suggests that the tactile experience provided by these switches will be quite similar, with no significant difference in how they feel when typing. Overall, whether you choose the HC Studio Crabapple or the Gateron Ink Box Pink, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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 HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, delivering a sharper and more distinct sound when pressed. If you prefer a quieter and more understated sound, the Crabapple may be more to your liking, whereas if you enjoy a crisper and more percussive sound, the Ink Box Pink could be the better option.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and mild characteristics, offering a smooth and effortless typing journey with a subtle texture felt during each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for a more textured feel or a polished and smooth typing sensation, you may lean towards one switch over the other.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple and Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple provides a subdued and frictionless typing experience with a mild sound signature, the Ink Box Pink delivers a clacky and high-pitched typing feel with a silky and polished texture. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you're looking for a similar outcome in terms of typing feel, either switch could provide a comparable level of satisfaction based on their smooth and effortless characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a frictionless, mildly textured typing experience with a subdued sound, the Crabapple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a smooth, polished typing feel with a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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