HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and KTT Mint linear switches offer distinctive typing experiences. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture on each downstroke. In contrast, the Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. While the Crabapple's sound signature is mild and understated, the Mint delivers a light and fleeting type feel. The Crabapple is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', 'Textured', while the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different individuals based on their preferences. 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
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Mint, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Mint utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This disparity in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Crabapple offering a more subdued sound while the Mint provides a more vibrant and resonant sound.
Another notable distinction between the two switches is their bottom housing material. The Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to its pleasing and unique sound profile, characterized by a deeper tone. On the other hand, the Mint employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a fuller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles further showcases how different housing materials can influence the overall typing experience, with the Crabapple offering a deeper sound compared to the Mint's fuller sound.
While the Crabapple and Mint differ in their top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each housing material on the typing experience is significant. The bottom housing material has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, these switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can greatly vary the sound profile and overall typing feel, ultimately providing users with a diverse range of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch illustrate a noticeable difference in weight. The Crabapple requires an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Mint has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. The Crabapple allows for a lighter typing experience, suitable for extended use such as work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mint offers a slightly heavier push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we see that the Crabapple has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mint has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Mint. The 0.4 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in the feel of typing or gaming. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a more abrupt feel, the Crabapple with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more deliberate and deep key press, the Mint with its longer travel distance could be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking to achieve.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound profile compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched and mellow tone, along with a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Crabapple and Mint switches offer a mild typing experience that many users find approachable. The Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and effortlessly smooth typing journey, along with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Similarly, the Mint switch is described as smooth and satisfying with a light and fleeting type feel, thanks to its long pole stem design and polished finish that reduces friction for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HC Studio Crabapple and KTT Mint linear switches provide a pleasant typing experience with their mild and smooth feel. While the Crabapple switch emphasizes a frictionless journey and subtle texture, the Mint switch focuses on a satisfyingly smooth feel with a poppy thockiness. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and any additional factors like desired typing experience or keyboard setup. Either way, users can expect a similar level of comfort and quality from both switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a frictionless and textured typing experience, the Crabapple may be the right choice for you. Its subdued sound and mild feel provide a unique typing journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and polished typing feel with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Mint could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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