HC Studio Crabapple vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple boasts a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture, creating a mild and understated sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Master provides a medium weight feel with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness. While the Crabapple is known for its frictionless and textured feel, the Master stands out for its clacky sound and polished operation. 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
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Dareu Master both feature POM top and bottom housings, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards deeper tones with a relatively more muted quality. This commonality in housing materials suggests that both keyboards will likely offer a similar overall sound experience to users. However, if there are differences in the top and bottom housings of a particular switch, these qualities will be split between the two components, impacting the sound and feel of key presses and releases differently.
While the Crabapple and the Master share the same POM housing material for both the top and bottom components, it is important to note that the bottom housing of a switch tends to have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. This means that users of both keyboards can expect a consistent and satisfying tactile experience when typing or gaming, with the POM material providing durability and a unique acoustic profile. The deeper sound profile of POM housing materials may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a more subdued sound profile.
The contrasting properties of the POM housing materials in the Crabapple and the Master keyboards offer users a choice between keyboards with slightly different sound profiles. While both keyboards present a deeper, more muted sound, the impact of the top and bottom housings may vary slightly, influencing the sound when pressing down on a key versus releasing it. Ultimately, the choice between the Crabapple and the Master may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with both keyboards likely to deliver a high-quality typing experience enhanced by the unique qualities of the POM housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Master's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke with less effort. Additionally, the Crabapple has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crabapple switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Master switch with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is clear that the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Master's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular among gamers for their quicker response times. Gamers looking for a faster and more responsive feel may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Master switch. On the other hand, those who enjoy a bit more depth and tactility in their keystrokes may gravitate towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Crabapple switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature that is not completely silent but not overpowering either. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, giving users a classic typewriter-like auditory experience. Keep in mind that the actual sound you hear will be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of typing, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless nature, offering an effortless and smooth typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Additionally, it provides a mild typing sensation that falls comfortably in the middle ground, making it approachable for most users. The switch also presents a subtle textured feel with each keypress. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch delivers a mild typing experience that is gentle and easy on the fingers, catering to a wide range of users. Furthermore, the switch is polished to provide a smooth and refined typing feel, ensuring reduced friction and sleek key travel.
Overall, while the Crabapple and Dareu Master linear switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both switches offer high-quality typing experiences. The Crabapple switch excels in providing a smooth and texture-rich typing journey with a subdued sound profile, while the Dareu Master switch impresses with its clacky and polished feel that offers a classic typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches are reliable options that will deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preferences for key feel and sound. If you prefer a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subdued sound, the Crabapple switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature and smooth operation, the Master switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and sound preference.
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