HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Black are two popular linear options to compare. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, offering an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its mild and understated sound signature sets it apart as a switch that excels in providing a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its reliability and smooth linear action. While the Crabapple excels in providing a unique typing experience with its textured feel, the Black offers a straightforward and reliable linear switch option. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Black, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Crabapple lacks.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Crabapple utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, creating a consistent sound profile that is deep and pleasing. On the other hand, the Outemu Black features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound compared to the harder POM material used in the Crabapple.
Overall, the choice of housing materials can have a significant impact on the sound and feel of a switch. While the Crabapple maintains consistency with POM for both top and bottom housings, the Outemu Black mixes polycarbonate and nylon to create a unique sound profile that is sharper and deeper. Whether a switch utilizes the same material for both housings or different materials, understanding how each material affects sound and feel is essential in choosing the right switch for your preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch show a clear contrast in weight. The Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, catering to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. The Crabapple provides a gentler typing feel, while the Outemu Black offers a more robust and tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, the Crabapple has a travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Black has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Black linear switch has a longer travel distance compared to the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Crabapple falls within the range of shorter travel distances that are currently popular, particularly among gamers who favor quicker response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Black may provide a more substantial feeling when typing, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, when comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, the Crabapple offers a more subdued sound profile, while the Black's sound qualities remain unknown. The Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and mild feel, providing a smooth typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Black switch is unavailable. Ultimately, if one were to seek a linear switch with a subdued sound and a frictionless typing experience, the Crabapple would be a suitable choice based on the available information. However, for those looking for more information on the feel of the Outemu Black switch, further research or hands-on experience may be necessary to make a fully informed decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and effortless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, then the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Crabapple's frictionless and textured feel, along with its subdued sound, makes it perfect for those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned about sound and feel descriptors, then the Outemu Black linear switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force requirement. Consider what factors are most important to you in a switch and choose accordingly.
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