HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HC Studio Crabapple and KTT Laurel are two linear mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that set them apart. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that provides a subtle texture with each keystroke. Its sound profile is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel features a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, providing a medium-light linear switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. It offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding a unique auditory experience to your typing. When deciding between these switches, consider the Crabapple for its frictionless feel and mild sound, while the Laurel offers snappy responsiveness and a low-pitched sound profile. 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
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Laurel both feature POM top and bottom housings, providing a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This similarity suggests that both keyboards will offer a consistent sound experience across the board, ensuring users can enjoy a satisfying typing or gaming experience no matter which option they choose. The use of POM housing in both keyboards also indicates a focus on durability and quality, as POM is known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear.
Despite both keyboards utilizing POM housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Laurel may differ in the manufacturing process or exact specifications of these materials. While both keyboards promise a pleasing sound profile, the specific characteristics of the sound may vary slightly between the two models. Additionally, the feel of pressing down on a key and the sound produced when letting go may also differ slightly between the two keyboards, depending on how the POM housing materials are implemented in each design.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Laurel suggest that users can expect comparable experiences in terms of sound and feel when using either keyboard. The use of POM top and bottom housings in both models ensures a consistent quality and durability that is well-suited for long-term use. While there may be subtle differences in the exact sound profile and tactile feedback between the two keyboards, the overall performance and experience are likely to be very close, making either option a solid choice for those in search of a high-quality keyboard.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. The Crabapple is slightly lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Laurel, but the difference may not be significant to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with some users preferring the slightly lighter feel of the Crabapple and others opting for the slightly heavier touch of the Laurel.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Laurel linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their quicker response times, particularly among gamers. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - the Crabapple may offer a slightly deeper key press experience, while the Laurel may feel slightly more responsive. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar level of travel distance and can deliver satisfying typing or gaming experiences depending on individual preferences.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 signature, providing a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch presents a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preference, both switches offer unique auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HC Studio Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and mild characteristics, offering a smooth and effortless typing journey with a subtle texture felt on each key press. Conversely, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, providing a super-responsive typing experience that feels lively and engaging. Depending on your preference for a smoother or more tactile typing experience, both switches offer distinct tactile feedback that can cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch excels in providing a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subdued sound profile, ideal for those seeking a smooth and subtle typing journey. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a snappy and responsive feel with a low-pitched sound profile, catering to individuals who prefer a more engaging and lively typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, ensuring a customized and enjoyable typing journey.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the KTT Laurel linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that offers a frictionless and mild typing journey with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke, then the Crabapple switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort with a low-pitched sound profile, then the Laurel switch might be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Crabapple and Laurel switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
