HC Studio Crabapple vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we see two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, offering an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a unique dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Mahjong stands out with its distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively, poppy sound signature and an effortless typing experience. While the Crabapple is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', 'Textured', the Mahjong falls under 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own appeal, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Dareu Mahjong differ in terms of their composition and characteristics. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Mahjong combines POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material in the Mahjong contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches, while the nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
While both the Crabapple and the Mahjong have unique housing materials, they each offer distinct advantages. The POM top housing in the Crabapple creates a pleasing sound profile, while the POK top housing in the Mahjong provides smoothness and durability. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Mahjong enhances the sound profile further by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The differences in material composition between the two switches lead to varying tactile experiences and sound characteristics.
Overall, the housing materials of the Crabapple and the Mahjong play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the POM top and bottom housing in the Crabapple offer a consistent sound profile, the split usage of POK and nylon in the Mahjong provides unique qualities to both the top and bottom of the switch. Whether you prefer a deeper and muted sound profile or a smooth and clacky typing experience, both switches offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the tactile feel desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mahjong has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The Crabapple provides a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Mahjong offers a slightly stronger push feel, ideal for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple being lighter and the Mahjong potentially offering a heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong for quicker response times, while those looking for a more substantial key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Crabapple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 is known for its subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Mahjong linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound level that is suitable for most users. Depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound of these switches may vary. When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch provides a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle textured feel on each key press. In comparison, the Mahjong switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, giving a lively and smooth feel with spring-like feedback. Both switches fall into the category of providing a mild typing experience, making them approachable to a wide range of users. Overall, while the Crabapple and Mahjong switches have different sound and feel qualities, they both offer a comfortable typing journey with their unique characteristics. With the Crabapple switch providing a dry smoothness and the Mahjong switch giving a poppy sound and effortless typing experience, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a frictionless typing experience with a mild and understated sound signature, the Crabapple switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique design, a lively sound signature, and a bouncy typing feel, the Mahjong switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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