HC Studio Crabapple vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Durock Medium Tactile switch, it's important to consider the key differences between the two. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, providing a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a more accented and stepped typing experience compared to the Crabapple switch. While the Crabapple switch may appeal to those looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is a great option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a bit more feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and Durock Medium Tactile switches offer different sound profiles due to their distinct properties. The POM top housing of the Crabapple creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile produces a crisper and higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple contributes to its unique sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile offers a deeper and fuller typing experience.
While both the Crabapple and Medium Tactile switches may use different materials for their top and bottom housings, the overall sound profile is a combination of these properties. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience. On the other hand, the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile creates a clearer and more resonant sound upon key release. Similarly, the POM top and bottom housings of the Crabapple combine to produce a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and Durock Medium Tactile switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and feel. The POM housings of the Crabapple offer a more consistent deep and muted typing experience, while the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Medium Tactile provides a sharper and crisper sound with a fuller bottom-out feel. Both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profiles and tactile feedback, providing keyboard enthusiasts with a diverse range of options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. The actuation force for the Medium Tactile is unknown, but given the higher bottom out force, it can be assumed to be heavier than the Crabapple. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Crabapple for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Durock Medium Tactile for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Medium Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Medium Tactile's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the specific needs of the user.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued sound that is dampened and subtle, providing a quieter typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature which may be more pronounced and unique. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey with minimal resistance. Additionally, it has a subtle texture that adds to the overall typing sensation. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented and stepped, providing a balanced tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. It also offers a polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel for both switches, it is clear that the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. While the Crabapple switch focuses on a subdued sound and a frictionless feel for a gentle and smooth typing journey, the Medium Tactile switch emphasizes a more pronounced tactility with a unique jelly-like sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a mild sound profile, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactile switch with a pronounced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and lightness in keypresses (Crabapple) or a more tactile and distinct typing experience (Medium Tactile). Consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard.
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