HC Studio Crabapple vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, both the HC Studio Crabapple and the Haimu Neo White stand out in their own unique ways. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM and offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience. Its dry smoothness and subtle texture with each keystroke create a distinctive feel, accompanied by a mild and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the Neo White, also a linear switch, boasts medium weight and a slightly reduced total travel for a different typing feel. The use of a Ly stem contributes to a smooth actuation, making each keystroke satisfying. While the Crabapple is known for its smooth, mild, subdued, textured characteristics, the Neo White is categorized as mild and neutral. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Haimu Neo White, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their materials. The Crabapple's POM top housing creates a deeper, more muted sound, while the Neo White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profile is reflective of the different properties of POM and polycarbonate, with POM being softer and more absorbent of sound, while polycarbonate is stiffer and more resonant. If seeking a switch with a distinct sound profile, the choice between the Crabapple and Neo White would come down to personal preference for either a deeper or crisper sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Crabapple's POM offers a similar deep and muted sound profile as its top housing, while the Neo White's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The contrast between POM and nylon reflects their respective properties, with POM being softer and nylon being stiffer. This results in a difference in sound quality when typing on switches with these bottom housings. Again, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for either a rounder sound from POM or a fuller sound from nylon.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Haimu Neo White will come down to preference for sound profile and feel. If looking for a switch with a deeper, more muted sound, the Crabapple with its POM housing would be the better option. On the other hand, if seeking a switch with a sharper, clearer sound, the Neo White with its polycarbonate housing would be more suitable. While both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, they ultimately provide different typing experiences based on the material used in their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that they have differing characteristics. The Crabapple features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Neo White's actuation force is not specified, but its bottom out force is 58 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing feel. This makes the Neo White the heavier option between the two. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Crabapple would be more suitable, allowing for extended typing sessions with ease. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Neo White for its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ultimately providing users with a choice based on their personal typing style and comfort preferences.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. Users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation depth with either switch. Overall, both switches provide the same travel distance, making them equal in this aspect.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 is known for its subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches, although different in sound characteristics, provide a pleasing auditory experience depending on individual preferences and setup.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is praised for its frictionless experience, providing an effortlessly smooth typing journey with minimal resistance. Additionally, it offers a mild typing experience that falls into a middle-ground zone suitable for a wide range of users. Conversely, the Haimu Neo White linear switch also offers a mild feel, ensuring a gentle and approachable typing experience for users. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, making them ideal for extended typing sessions.
Taking into consideration the information provided, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch both excel in their own unique ways. While the Crabapple emphasizes a frictionless and textured typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Neo White focuses on a smooth actuation and satisfying feel with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, whether choosing the Crabapple or the Neo White, users can expect a high-quality typing experience that caters to their preferences in sound and feel. While there are subtle differences between the two switches, both are likely to provide similarly satisfying results for users seeking a premium mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a frictionless and effortless typing journey with a light bottom out force, opt for the Crabapple switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a medium weight and smooth actuation, the Neo White switch may be the better choice. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a subdued sound profile, the Crabapple is your go-to, while the Neo White offers a neutral sound suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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