HC Studio Crabapple vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it's apparent that both offer unique features and advantages. The Crabapple boasts a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. In contrast, the Lotus switch from HMX offers a medium weight of 50g bottom-out and a bright, resonant sound, creating a super bouncy feeling that makes typing a delight. While the Crabapple is categorized as frictionless, mild, subdued, textured, the Lotus is categorized differently. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HC Studio Crabapple and the HMX Lotus both aim to create a deep and pleasing sound profile. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, while the Lotus uses nylon for both components. POM is known for producing a more muted sound compared to nylon, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature. As a result, typing on the Crabapple may offer a slightly different auditory experience compared to typing on the Lotus, with the former potentially producing a sound that is deeper and more subdued.
The choice of housing material also affects the overall feel of the switch. Since the characteristics of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. This means that the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple may influence the typing experience differently than the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus. On the other hand, the top housing material will primarily influence the sound produced when a key is released. Both switches aim to offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials.
While the Crabapple and Lotus differ in their choice of housing materials, they both prioritize creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The POM and nylon materials used in the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience by influencing the sound and feel of the switches. Despite these differences, users can expect a similar level of quality and attention to detail in both the HC Studio Crabapple and the HMX Lotus, with each switch offering a unique sound signature based on their respective housing materials. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch and less strain on their fingers may find both switches to be equally appealing. However, for users who enjoy a slightly firmer keystroke and a more substantial typing feel, they may lean towards the Lotus switch with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Crabapple would provide a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness and feel while typing.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Crabapple linear switch provides a subdued and mild sound profile, offering a more understated typing experience with its dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its bright and resonant sound, creating a more vibrant auditory feedback with each keystroke. The Crabapple switch leans towards a quieter and more subtle acoustic experience, while the Lotus switch delivers a more lively and pronounced sound, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more auditory typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple linear switch stands out for its frictionless travel, offering an effortless and smooth typing journey with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch also features a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. Additionally, the subtle texture felt with each downstroke adds a unique touch to the typing experience. In comparison, information on the tactile feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not provided, but based on its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bouncy feeling, it can be inferred that the Lotus switch may offer a more responsive and tactile typing experience compared to the Crabapple.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Crabapple and Lotus linear switches, the Crabapple stands out for its subdued sound and frictionless, mild feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback. In contrast, the Lotus switch offers a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feeling that may cater to users looking for a more vibrant and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light linear switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams, a frictionless and dry smooth typing experience, and a mild and understated sound signature, then the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, a bouncy and bright feel with a resonant sound, and a super bouncy typing experience that makes every keystroke a delight, then the HMX Lotus linear switch would be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for weight, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure that you find the perfect match for your typing needs.
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