HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Lightning mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features to enhance the typing experience. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning, also a linear switch, is known for its speed and precision. These switches offer a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile, making them perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference. The Lightning switches are categorized as clacky, high-pitched, chirpy, subtle, and polished. Both switches have their unique strengths and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Lightning present a stark contrast in terms of sound profiles. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound. This difference is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clearer and resonant sound compared to the more absorbent nature of nylon. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for a deeper or crisper sound.
Aesthetically, the materials used in the housing of the Crabapple and the Lightning also differ significantly. The Crabapple's POM top housing provides a more classic and understated look, while the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing offers a more modern and visually appealing option, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The choice of housing material not only affects the sound profile of the switch but also plays a role in enhancing the overall visual appeal of the keyboard. Whether one prefers a clear, translucent look or a more traditional appearance, the housing material can greatly influence the overall design aesthetic of the keyboard.
While the housing materials of the Crabapple and the Lightning may differ, both switches offer unique advantages. The split design of having different materials for the top and bottom housing allows for a balance between impact and sound quality when pressing down on the switch. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, coupled with the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key, provides a dynamic typing experience. Whether one prefers the deeper, fuller sound of nylon or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Lightning linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches fall on the lighter side in terms of force, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Crabapple provides a slightly lighter feel overall, while the Lightning offers a bit more resistance for those who prefer a slightly firmer push when typing. Ultimately, both switches will provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Crabapple being slightly lighter and the Lightning being slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The comparison between the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch reveals that the Crabapple has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Lightning being slightly shallower. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Lightning switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the Crabapple switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and tactile feel, as they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different user 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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound profile, providing a dampened and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch emits a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound when pressed, creating a sharp and lively typing atmosphere. Depending on personal preferences, the Crabapple switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter and more subtle typing sound, while the Lightning switch caters to individuals who enjoy a more vibrant and percussive typing noise.
Moving on to the feel, the Crabapple linear switch boasts a frictionless and mild typing experience, characterized by a smooth and effortless key press with a subtle texture felt on each downstroke. In contrast, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a subtle and polished typing feel, with a gentle resistance and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. Both switches provide a comfortable typing sensation, with the Crabapple switch focusing on a fluid and frictionless journey, while the Lightning switch offers a refined and light typing feel.
Overall, individuals looking for a linear switch with a subdued sound profile and a frictionless typing experience may prefer the HC Studio Crabapple switch. On the other hand, those seeking a linear switch that produces a clacky and lively sound while offering a subtle and polished typing feel may find the KTT Lightning switch more appealing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness, the Crabapple switch crafted from POM may be the ideal choice for you. The subdued sound signature and mild feel of the Crabapple switches offer a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Lightning switches are a great option with their slick type feel and clacky sound profile. The Lightning switches are perfect for those looking for a more dynamic and high-pitched sound when typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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