HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Jupiter Red, both of which are linear switches. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, thanks to its single-stage spring. Featuring high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Reds are favored by those looking for a seamless and consistent 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The HC Studio Crabapple features POM top and bottom housings, creating a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Crabapple's POM housings provide a unique sound experience, while the Jupiter Red's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a more diverse range of sound qualities.
Both the Crabapple and the Jupiter Red utilize unique housing materials to enhance their sound profiles. The POM housings of the Crabapple create a pleasing and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red produces a crisper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, with the Crabapple emphasizing a more muted sound and the Jupiter Red focusing on a sharper and clearer sound.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound of the switch is significant. The Crabapple's POM housings influence both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key, resulting in a consistent and unique typing experience. Similarly, the Jupiter Red's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials contributes to a diverse range of sound profiles based on whether you are pressing down on a key or letting it go. Ultimately, the choice between the Crabapple and the Jupiter Red will depend on the sound profile and typing experience that each individual prefers based on the housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Crabapple switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Jupiter Red switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a stronger push may find the Jupiter Red to be more suitable for their needs. Both switches offer unique benefits - the Crabapple for longer typing sessions and the Jupiter Red for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Jupiter Red's 4 mm. The Crabapple's shorter travel distance is more suited for those looking for faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red's longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press feel with greater depth. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preferences, with the Crabapple being ideal for quick and responsive typing, while the Jupiter Red provides a more deliberate and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for travel distance and key press 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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile, offering a dampened noise when pressed that is not completely silent but certainly more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level suitable for various typing environments. However, it's essential to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors like the keyboard body and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is praised for its frictionless typing experience, providing an effortlessly smooth journey with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, users may notice a mild and textured feel that adds a subtle tactile element to each keystroke. Contrastingly, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is characterized by a polished and creamy typing experience, delivering a smooth and refined feel that is akin to effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. With both switches offering a mild typing experience, users can expect a comfortable and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone.
Overall, while the HC Studio Crabapple and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches may have some differences in sound and feel, they both aim to provide users with a seamless and consistent typing experience. Whether you prefer a more subdued and textured sound like the Crabapple or a neutral and creamy feel like the Jupiter Red, both switches offer qualities that cater to various preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a frictionless, subtly textured typing experience, the Crabapple switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a polished, creamy typing experience, the Jupiter Red switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and the feel you prefer when using a mechanical keyboard.
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