HC Studio Crabapple vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with a distinct texture felt with each keystroke. The Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless journey, mild sound signature, and subtle texture, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black switch from Cherry offers a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, making it suitable for those who enjoy a slightly firmer keystroke. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Cherry MX Black switches both offer unique sound profiles that are deep and muted. The Crabapple uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, while the MX Black utilizes nylon for both components. POM housings are known for creating a pleasing sound profile with a deeper tone, while nylon housings provide a fuller sound due to their softer plastic composition. Both housing materials absorb sound effectively, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics.
While the Crabapple and MX Black switches share similarities in their housing materials and sound profiles, the split design of the housings allows for different characteristics to be experienced when typing. The bottom housing of a switch generally impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the qualities of POM and nylon will be perceived differently depending on the direction of movement when typing on these switches. Despite these differences, the overall sound profile of both switches is characterized by depth and muted tones.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and Cherry MX Black switches contribute to their unique sound profiles, with POM and nylon offering distinct characteristics. POM creates a pleasing and deep sound that is relatively more muted, while nylon provides a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer composition. The split design of the housings allows for a varied experience when typing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release. Overall, both switches offer satisfying sound profiles that are a result of their quality housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple switch is lighter while the MX Black switch is heavier. The Crabapple switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison to the MX Black switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch requires less force to register a keystroke and reach the bottom out point, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users preferring the lighter actuation force of the Crabapple switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier push feel of the MX Black switch for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the MX Black. The Crabapple's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the MX Black's slightly longer travel distance might offer a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Black being more common. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, creating a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone with a deep sound profile when typing on them. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple being more understated and the MX Black offering a more classic sound experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch stands out for its frictionless typing experience, providing an extremely smooth and effortless journey with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch offers a fluid travel and a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Crabapple switch also features a subtle texture felt with each downstroke, adding a unique tactile element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its textured feel, offering noticeable friction when pressed. It also requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, giving it a stiffer feel compared to the Crabapple switch.
In conclusion, both the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple switch provides a subdued sound with a frictionless and mild typing experience, while the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound with a textured and stiff feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, while the qualities of the switches differ, users can expect similar results in terms of performance and reliability from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a more textured feel and a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal typing preferences.
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