HC Studio Crabapple vs. Bsun Kiki Red

Overview

When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, provides a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiki Red switch from BSUN offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. The use of Ly in the stems ensures smooth actuation, while the medium-light weighting adds to the tactile experience. While the Crabapple switch is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', 'Textured', the Kiki Red switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', 'Easy-to-press'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you determine the best switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

HC Studio Crabapple Linear

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Kiki Red are both made of POM, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to other materials. This means that both switches will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom, impacting the overall sound and feel of the switch differently.

In the case of the Crabapple, both the top and bottom housings are POM, which means that the unique sound profile of POM material will be consistent throughout the switch. This can result in a cohesive and harmonious typing experience, with a clear and deep sound when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Kiki Red also features POM top and bottom housings, ensuring a consistent sound profile that is deep and muted. This means that despite any differences in design or construction, both switches will likely provide a similar sound and feel when typing.

While the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Bsun Kiki Red are both made of POM and offer a similar sound profile, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience may vary slightly. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, any differences in the top and bottom housings of these switches may result in subtle variations in typing feel and sound, despite the overall similarities in material and sound profile. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience for users who appreciate the deeper and more muted sound of POM housing materials.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, we can see that the Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Kiki Red's 42 grams. However, both switches have a light bottom out force with the Crabapple at 45 grams and the Kiki Red at 50 grams. This means that while the Crabapple may require less force to trigger a keystroke, the overall typing experience may feel similar when bottoming out due to the similar bottom out forces. Some users may prefer the Crabapple for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Kiki Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. When comparing and contrasting the two, it can be noted that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent feedback and feel when pressing down on a key with either switch. Overall, both the Crabapple and Kiki Red switches offer a standard travel distance, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Crabapple linear switch is known for its subdued sound profile, providing a quieter and more subtle typing experience compared to many other switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding a noticeable auditory element to the typing process. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless nature, offering an effortless and smooth typing feel with minimal resistance. Additionally, users often appreciate the mild tactility and subtle texture felt with each keystroke, providing a comfortable and approachable typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is described as creamy and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. The switch is also noted for its snappy response and easy-to-press nature, making it ideal for users seeking a refined and responsive typing experience.

Overall, while the Crabapple and Bsun Kiki Red linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in providing a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer a subdued and textured sound with a frictionless feel, as offered by the Crabapple switch, or a clacky and creamy sound with a polished and silky feel, as provided by the Bsun Kiki Red switch, you can expect exceptional performance and tactility from either option. Ultimately, both switches are designed to cater to enthusiasts who seek subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in typing performance, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers and experienced users alike.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you value a truly frictionless typing experience with a subtle texture and mild sound signature, the Crabapple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a finely-tuned typing experience with a unique sound profile that strikes a balance between high-pitched clackiness and smoothness during actuation, the Kiki Red could be the perfect fit. Consider the weight of the bottom out force and the materials used in each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to prioritize what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

HC Studio Crabapple Linear

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn more