HC Studio Crabapple vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, offers a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch provides a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. With a medium light tactility and a balanced keystroke, the Oreo offers a satisfying yet comfortable typing experience. While the Crabapple is categorized as frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured, the Oreo falls under accented, chirpy, and stepped. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Everglide Oreo differ in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housing create a deeper and more muted sound, while the Oreo's polycarbonate top and bottom housing result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction in sound quality is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Oreo.
Despite their differences, both the Crabapple and the Oreo share a common feature in their use of POM and polycarbonate housing materials. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of durability and overall performance. However, the specific characteristics of each material, such as the deeper sound of POM and the crisper sound of polycarbonate, provide a unique experience for users seeking different sound profiles in their mechanical keyboards. Whether one prefers a muted and deeper sound or a sharper and crisper tone, both options cater to varying preferences in sound quality.
It is important to note that the housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the keyboard. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. This means that the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials can greatly affect the overall typing experience, catering to those who prioritize the feel and sound of their mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, understanding the characteristics of each housing material allows users to select the switch that best suits their preferences in sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter in both aspects. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Oreo has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Crabapple requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Oreo. This lighter weight may be preferred by those who value longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Oreo provides a slightly heavier touch, which may be favored by those who desire a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Everglide Oreo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple offers a quicker key press response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Oreo switch provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 is known for its subtle and subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a more unique and chirpy sound, adding a bit of character to each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users may find the Crabapple to be more soothing and unobtrusive, while the Oreo may appeal to those looking for a touch of whimsy in their typing sounds.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is praised for its frictionless and smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a fluid keystroke. With a mild tactility and textured feel, this switch provides a comfortable middle-ground experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch features an accented and stepped tactile bump, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Users who enjoy a more defined tactile feel may find the Oreo to be a satisfying choice.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple provides a subdued sound and frictionless feel, the Oreo offers a chirpy sound and accented tactile sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience. Whether you prefer a quieter, smoother typing feel like the Crabapple or a more tactile and playful typing experience like the Oreo, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, consider your typing preferences. If you value a frictionless and smooth typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Crabapple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump at the top of the keystroke followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, along with a chirpy sound profile, the Oreo switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what feels best for your typing style.
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