HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Orange mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Crabapple offers a unique typing experience with its POM construction that provides a frictionless and textured feel with a mild and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch boasts a bouncy type feel with its long spring and polished key travel, making it ideal for those looking for a smooth and low-pitched typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and benefits, 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
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Orange differ in terms of the sound profiles they create. The Crabapple's POM housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the Orange's polycarbonate housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction in sound profile is due to the properties of the materials used, with POM being softer and polycarbonate being stiffer. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind, adding an aesthetic element to its functional benefits.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Crabapple and the Orange utilize their respective housing materials to enhance the overall look of the switch. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Orange's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually striking effect. On the other hand, the solid color of POM in the Crabapple's housing may provide a more subtle and classic appearance. While each housing material offers different visual benefits, both contribute to the overall design and appeal of the switches.
When it comes to the tactile feel of the switches, the qualities of the housing materials are felt differently depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Crabapple and the Orange benefit from the unique qualities of their housing materials, which enhance the overall typing experience for users looking for specific sound profiles and tactile feedback in their switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Orange switch is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light category, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Crabapple switch offers a lighter feel, which may be favored by individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Orange switch provides a slightly stronger push feel, appealing to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, some may find the shorter travel distance of the Orange to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly deeper feel of the Crabapple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, the Crabapple offers a subdued sound profile, which produces a dampened and subtle noise when typing. On the other hand, the Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Crabapple being more understated while the Orange switch offers a deeper tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard system.
Moving on to the tactile feel of these switches, the HC Studio Crabapple switch boasts a frictionless typing experience that is effortlessly smooth and minimizes any sense of resistance or friction. Additionally, it offers a mild and approachable typing sensation that falls within a safe middle-ground zone for most users. There is also a subtle texture felt with each downstroke, adding a unique tactile element to the typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, giving keys a lively rebound when pressed. Similar to the Crabapple, the Orange switch also offers a frictionless typing experience with fluid key travel. Depending on individual preferences for typing feedback, users can choose between the smooth, textured feel of the Crabapple or the bouncy, spring-like feel of the Orange switch.
In conclusion, both the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple excels in providing a subdued sound profile and a smooth, textured typing experience, while the Orange switch stands out with its low-pitched sound and bouncy, frictionless feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. By considering factors such as typing style, preferred noise level, and desired key feel, users can select the switch that best complements their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the KTT Orange linear switch, it's important to take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom out force and a frictionless, dry smoothness with a subtle texture in each keystroke, the Crabapple switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force with a bouncy, spring-like feel and low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smoother, more subdued typing experience (Crabapple) or a bouncier, low-pitched one (Orange). Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider your individual typing style and choose accordingly.
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