HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch stand out as popular options. The Crabapple switch is crafted entirely from POM, providing a frictionless typing experience that is dry smooth with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch offers gentle tactility with a muted sound profile, striking a balance between feedback and noise. These switches are lightweight and easy-to-press, making them ideal for long hours of comfortable typing in a professional setting. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Mini i, one can see how POM and nylon offer different sound profiles. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housing create a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Mini i's nylon housing provides a fuller and rounder sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile from their keyboard switches.
While both the Crabapple and Mini i switches have unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they also share similarities in their construction. Both switches use materials that absorb sound to some degree, creating a more muffled and subdued typing experience compared to switches with harder plastic housings. This can result in a more pleasant typing experience for those who appreciate a quieter keyboard, regardless of whether they choose the Crabapple or Mini i switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Crabapple and Mini i switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The POM housing of the Crabapple offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the nylon housing of the Mini i provides a fuller and rounder sound. Whether one prefers a softer or sharper typing sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience thanks to their sound-absorbing properties. With the differences in housing materials between the two switches, users can choose the one that best fits their typing style and preferences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch which has an actuation force of 40 grams. Similarly, the Crabapple has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams in comparison to the Mini i's 50 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may opt for the Gateron Mini i tactile switch for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force will depend on your personal preference for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The comparison between the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch reveals that the Mini i has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Crabapple's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking quick responsiveness. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the extra 0.2 mm of the Crabapple to be more satisfying, while others may appreciate the quicker actuation of the Mini i. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Mini i being the shorter option and the Crabapple being the longer of the two.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
The Crabapple linear switch is known for its subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle typing experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch presents a neutral sound profile, striking a balance between actuation force and sound level, making it suitable for various environments. The Crabapple switch provides a frictionless and mild typing feel, with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt during typing, contrasting to the bouncy and easy-to-press sensation of the Gateron Mini i switch, which is ideal for long hours of comfortable typing without the intrusive clack. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics with their sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. With the Crabapple switch emphasizing a smoother and subtler typing experience, and the Gateron Mini i switch focusing on gentle tactility for extended typing sessions, users will get similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction but with nuanced differences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a frictionless and mild typing journey with a subdued sound, the Crabapple switch crafted from POM material may suit your needs. On the other hand, if you seek a gentle tactility and bouncy, easy-to-press keys with a neutral sound profile, the Gateron Mini i switch could be the ideal choice, especially for office settings where a muted sound is preferred. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
