HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique characteristics worth exploring. The Crabapple boasts a POM construction that provides a frictionless typing experience, with a dry smoothness and subtle texture that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smooth and buttery feel, with a low, "thocky" sound that's perfect for gaming and typing alike. While the Crabapple leans towards a mild and subdued typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a bassy and textured feel that appeals to budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), the Crabapple boasts a POM top and bottom housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top and bottom housing. Both POM and nylon are known for creating a deep and muted sound profile, but they achieve this in slightly different ways. POM is a harder plastic that produces a pleasing and unique sound, while nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both housing materials ultimately contribute to a similar overall sound experience that is deep and full.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the sound and feel of a switch, it becomes clear that they play complementary roles. The qualities of the bottom housing are more evident during the act of pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between POM and nylon for the top and bottom housings can result in varying tactile and auditory experiences when using a mechanical keyboard.
Overall, while the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may utilize different housing materials, they both offer a similar outcome in terms of sound profile. Whether it be the deep and muted sound produced by POM or nylon, mechanical keyboard enthusiasts can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between POM and nylon housing materials may come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound when using a keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch differ significantly in terms of weight. The Crabapple switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who enjoy a stronger push when typing may prefer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the HC Studio Crabapple switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple offers a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may provide a more substantial keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 and mild sound signature that is subtle and understated. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, offering a deeper and richer sound profile with a satisfyingly thick resistance. Depending on personal preference, the Crabapple provides a quieter and more understated typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a more pronounced and satisfying sound, especially for those who enjoy a deep "thocky" tone.
When it comes to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild qualities, offering an effortlessly smooth typing experience with a subtle texture felt during each key press. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery and textured, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction if preferred. The Crabapple switch focuses on minimal resistance and a gentle typing experience, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro excels in delivering a smooth and satisfying keystroke with an added texture for those who appreciate it.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple provides a quieter and frictionless typing journey, ideal for those seeking a more subdued experience, the Milky Yellow Pro boasts a rich and satisfying sound with a buttery smoothness that caters to a wider range of enthusiasts. Both switches have their unique characteristics, offering users a choice between a gentle and understated typing experience or a more pronounced and satisfying keystroke. Depending on individual preferences, either switch can provide a fantastic typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light switch with a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Crabapple's dry smoothness and subtle texture make it a unique and enjoyable option for typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force switch with a classic budget option that excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, then the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. With its buttery smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance, the Milky Yellow Pro is a versatile option for all-purpose use. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience (Crabapple) or a medium resistance switch that excels in both typing and gaming (Milky Yellow Pro).
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