HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Lunar Probe both offer unique features worth exploring. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch features a novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses. These switches offer an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. While the Crabapple excels in providing a textured and subdued typing experience, the Lunar Probe focuses on stability and consistency. 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
45g
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
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Lunar Probe, it is evident that they have distinct sound profiles due to the different materials used. The Crabapple's POM top housing produces a deep and muted sound, while the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Crabapple results in a more subdued sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate in the Lunar Probe gives a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the functionality of the switch.
Furthermore, the housing materials of the bottom components also contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Crabapple's POM bottom housing mirrors the qualities of the top housing, creating a similar deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer POM material used in the Crabapple.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Crabapple and Lunar Probe switches lead to unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Crabapple's POM housing offers a more subdued sound, the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate and nylon housings create sharper and fuller sound profiles. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences for sound and feel, as each housing material brings its own distinct qualities to the typing experience. Nonetheless, regardless of the differences, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience due to the attention to detail in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the lighter weight category. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Crabapple is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Lunar Probe, which may appeal to users who prefer a gentler typing feel. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out, providing a bit more resistance and feedback for users who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a similar lightweight typing experience, with the Lunar Probe being slightly heavier than the Crabapple.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. This means that whether you are using the Crabapple or the Lunar Probe, you can expect consistent results in terms of keypress feedback and actuation feel. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can enjoy a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 that is not completely silent but is more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch provides a subtle sound that is paired with a smooth linear sensation. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can offer a pleasing auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple switch is best known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless journey with a subtle texture felt on each downstroke. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch features a dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. While the exact feel of the Lunar Probe switch is not explicitly described, it can be inferred that it also provides a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, both the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch excel in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with their unique qualities. The Crabapple switch stands out for its dry smoothness and frictionless journey, while the Lunar Probe switch boasts stability and consistency in keypresses. Whether you prefer a subdued sound with a textured feel or a smooth sensation with a subtle sound, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. With either switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that meets your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider the following guidelines. You may want to choose the Crabapple if you value a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a typing experience that is effortlessly frictionless and smooth, with a mild and understated sound profile. On the other hand, you may prefer the Lunar Probe if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and prioritize stable and consistent keypresses, along with an incredibly smooth linear feel and a subtle sound signature. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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