HC Studio Crabapple vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer distinct typing experiences. The Crabapple's linear switch, crafted entirely from POM, provides a frictionless journey with a dry smoothness and subtle textured feel. Its sound signature is mild and understated, offering a unique typing experience categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured'. On the other hand, the Blueberry tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, ideal for those who enjoy a sharp typing feel. With a lower-than-average sound frequency, it offers a deep but not "thocky" sound, categorized as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Stiff'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry both feature POM top and bottom housings, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar sound experience from both switches. However, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings may vary, influencing the overall typing feel and sound of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Crabapple and Blueberry switches will offer differences in impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down. The POM bottom housing of each switch may contribute to a distinct tactile experience, potentially affecting the overall typing feedback for users. This variation in bottom housing material can result in different levels of resistance and rebound when typing on the switches, ultimately influencing the typing experience.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Crabapple and Blueberry switches will play a significant role in the sound profile when releasing a key. The POM top housing of each switch may contribute to a unique sound signature that is distinct to each switch. This difference in top housing material can result in varying levels of sound dampening and resonance, influencing the overall acoustic experience of typing on the switches. Ultimately, while both switches share the same housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings can lead to differences in typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, the Crabapple is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Blueberry. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. In contrast, the Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which provides a heavier and more substantial typing feel. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Crabapple may be the better choice, while the Blueberry would be more suited for those who prefer a heavier and more pronounced keystroke. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences due to their differing actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options depending on their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Crabapple being slightly shorter than the Blueberry. Gamers may prefer the Crabapple for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Blueberry with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, not completely silent but with a more subtle sound signature overall. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch produces a low-pitched, resonant sound with a clean and sharp profile. The Blueberry switch has a deeper tone than average but is not considered "thocky." Ultimately, the sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors like the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple linear switch provides a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each key press. This switch offers a smooth and effortless typing journey with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is described as snappy, buttery, and invigorating, offering a super responsive feel with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. Additionally, the Blueberry switch also has noticeable friction when pressed, providing a textured sensation that may appeal to some users.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch provides a mild and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound, the Blueberry switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a resonant, invigorating feel with a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ultimately allowing users to choose based on their individual typing style and preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a light bottom out force, a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subtle texture, and a mild and understated sound signature, the Crabapple switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, a sharp tactile bump for a more pronounced typing feel, and a lower-than-average but slightly deeper sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a more effortless and fluid feel with the Crabapple or a more tactile and responsive feel with the Blueberry.
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