HC Studio Crabapple vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing style, you may come across the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches, both of which are linear switches. The Crabapple switches are crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Their sound signature is mild and understated, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that is both buttery and low-pitched. These switches provide a textured and invigorating typing experience for those who enjoy a more resonant feel. 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
70g
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
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 Cream are both made of POM, which results in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch. However, if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of the housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch, affecting the overall typing experience.
While both switches share the same POM housing material, the distribution of the housing qualities between the top and bottom housings may differ for the Crabapple and the NovelKeys Cream. The bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. This subtle difference in housing material distribution may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with one potentially feeling more solid or satisfying in bottom-out, and the other providing a more pronounced sound when keys are released.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. However, the distribution of the qualities of the housing material between the top and bottom housings may lead to slight differences in the typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for bottom-out sound and feel versus sound upon key release, users may find one switch more satisfying than the other. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience due to their POM housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch are quite different. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Cream's heavier 55 grams. Additionally, the Crabapple has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Cream has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Crabapple provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Cream offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Crabapple, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Cream for a more satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making the NovelKeys Cream the longer option in this comparison. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream to be more satisfying. Ultimately, if you prioritize quick responses, the HC Studio Crabapple may be the better choice, but if you prefer a more deliberate key press, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream may be more suitable for your needs.
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 Cream 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 Cream 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
In terms of sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound profile, providing a quieter and more understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound, offering a deeper and more resonant typing experience. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Crabapple being more subtle and the Cream being more immersive and bass-heavy.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. In comparison, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Both switches provide a different typing sensation, with the Crabapple focusing on smoothness and subtlety while the Cream offers a more invigorating and tactile feel.
Considering both the sound and feel qualities of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience. The Crabapple excels in providing a quiet and frictionless typing journey with a mild texture, while the Cream offers a deeper, more resonant sound with a buttery and invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether the user values a subtle, smooth typing experience or a more tactile and immersive one. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light typing experience with a frictionless journey and a mild, understated sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a deeper sound profile and a more heftier feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch would be the better option. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect match for your typing style.
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