HC Studio Crabapple vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the HC Studio Crabapple and the Zuoce Lavender, both of which are linear switches. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM and provides a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture. In contrast, the Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness due to its proprietary Ly blend, offering a crisp and clacky sound with each keystroke. The Crabapple is described as mild, subdued, and textured, while the Lavender is known for being easy-to-press and clacky. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Zuoce Lavender are both made of POM, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches. Despite their similarities, the placement of the POM material in the top and bottom housings may result in slight differences in the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing's impact is more noticeable when releasing a key.
In terms of construction, the Crabapple's POM housing may have a different design or thickness compared to the Lavender's POM housing, leading to subtle variations in the overall typing experience. The distribution of the POM material between the top and bottom housings could influence factors such as key stability and key travel. Users may notice a difference in how these switches feel under their fingers, depending on the specific design choices made by the manufacturers. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience due to the unique sound profile associated with POM housing.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Zuoce Lavender may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While the POM housing in both switches creates a similar deep and muted sound profile, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in subtle differences in typing experience. Users looking for a switch with a particular feel or sound may find that one switch better suits their preferences over the other. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience thanks to the unique properties of the POM housing material.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch show some clear differences. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lavender's actuation force is heavier at 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Crabapple is lighter overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, perfect for those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, accommodating different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lavender. In general, shorter travel distances are favored by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, so you can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness between the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 provides a subdued and mild sound signature, creating a more understated typing experience. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a crisp and clacky sound that adds a satisfyingly sharp and percussive element to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique auditory feedback, with the Crabapple leaning towards a quieter and more subtle sound compared to the Lavender's more pronounced and lively click.
Moving on to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch boasts a frictionless and mild typing experience, with a subtle texture felt on each downstroke. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is described as easy-to-press, offering a smooth and effortless typing journey with minimal resistance. While the Crabapple focuses on a smooth and frictionless feel, the Lavender prioritizes a light actuation force for a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple provides a quieter and more subtle typing experience with its frictionless feel, the Lavender stands out for its crisp and clacky sound signature paired with an easy-to-press sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to a variety of users looking for different qualities in their mechanical keyboards. If a user prefers a quieter and smoother typing feel, the Crabapple would be a suitable choice, while those seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback and effortless keystrokes may find the Lavender more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Crabapple switch crafted from POM may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound signature, the Lavender switch with its proprietary Ly blend might be more to your liking. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing feel and sound profile for an enhanced overall typing experience.
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