HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Melodic offer distinct typing experiences. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic reinvigorates the clicky switch category with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, offering a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without compromising on smoothness. Categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured', the Crabapple is ideal for those who value a subtle and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Melodic, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', is perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying typing sound. 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
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Melodic switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Crabapple's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the Melodic's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences, both the Crabapple and the Melodic switches aim to create a pleasing and unique sound experience for users. The choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing affects the overall tone of the switch, with POM being deeper and more muted, and polycarbonate delivering a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Similarly, the bottom housing material, whether POM or nylon, influences the sound profile by either enhancing depth or absorbing more sound. Overall, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in determining the auditory feedback users will experience during typing.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound of a switch, it becomes evident how important each material choice is. The bottom housing material primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, with POM offering a deeper tone and nylon providing a fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether POM or polycarbonate, influences the sound when the key is released, adding to the overall typing experience. By carefully selecting housing materials, switch designers can create switches with distinct sound profiles that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Crabapple is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a light and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Melodic is heavier with a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. The actuation force of the Melodic is not specified, but it is clear that it requires a heavier force to bottom out compared to the Crabapple. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Crabapple would be a suitable choice, while the Melodic would be better for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it can be seen that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Melodic's 4 mm. The Crabapple's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times, while the Melodic's longer travel distance may provide a more distinctive and satisfying keystroke for some users. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances and offer a different tactile experience depending on personal preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one values a shorter, more responsive keystroke or a longer, more deliberate keystroke.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 provides a subdued and mild typing experience, featuring a dampened sound that is subtle and understated. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile, characterized by a higher-pitched sound with a crisp and sharp auditory experience. The sound of each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and mild qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle textured feel on each downstroke. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Each switch offers a unique typing sensation that caters to different preferences in tactile feedback and keypress resistance.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch present distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch provides a quieter and smoother typing experience with a mild texture, the Melodic switch offers a more resonant and immersive auditory experience with a buttery and invigorating feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual needs. Ultimately, both switches offer quality craftsmanship and innovative features that enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you value a light bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a mild sound signature, then the Crabapple switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a classic clicky sound with a resonant and crunchy profile, and a buttery and invigorating feel, then the Gateron Melodic switch might be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, noise tolerance, and desired typing feel when making your decision between these two switches.
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