HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch, and the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, stand out as popular choices. The Crabapple switches, made entirely from POM, offer an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Their sound signature is mild and understated, making them ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switches are known for their clicky feedback, providing audible confirmation with each press. While the Crabapple switch is categorized as frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured, the Blue switch does not have specific categories associated with it. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal choice. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Blue, one key difference is in their top housing materials. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Blue provides a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the POM housing in the Crabapple delivers a unique and pleasing sound with a deeper tone.
Another difference lies in the bottom housing of these switches. The Crabapple's POM bottom housing offers a deep and pleasing sound profile similar to its top housing, while the Blue's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller sound profile. This makes the Outemu Blue ideal for those looking for a switch with a deeper and fuller typing sound, whereas the Crabapple provides a more muted and unique typing experience with its POM bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Blue will depend on the sound profile and feel that you prefer in a switch. While both switches feature unique qualities in their housing materials, with the Crabapple offering a deeper and more muted sound with POM housings and the Blue providing a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate and nylon housings, respectively. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and offer satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Blue switch may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. When comparing the two, the Crabapple is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Blue is heavier in actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual'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 Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm compared to the Blue's 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The 4 mm travel distance of the Blue switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by some users who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Crabapple offers a quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the Crabapple offering a shorter travel distance for increased responsiveness, while the Blue provides a longer travel distance for a more deliberate key press.
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 Blue 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
In terms of sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch produces a subdued and dampened sound when pressed. It offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches, creating a mild and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced by each switch.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple switch is designed to provide a frictionless typing journey with its entirely POM construction. This results in an effortlessly smooth and fluid experience with each key press. The switch also offers a mild and gentle typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Additionally, a subtle texture can be felt with each downstroke, adding a unique tactile element to the typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's feel characteristics are not specified, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this regard.
Taking all available information into consideration, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch excels in providing a smooth, frictionless, and subtly textured typing experience with a subdued sound profile. Its unique qualities make it a versatile option for those seeking a more refined typing feel. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Blue clicky switch are unknown, it's worth noting that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for each user. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of feel and sound from the Crabapple switch, thanks to its well-crafted design and distinctive qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a light bottom out force, a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle texture, and a subdued sound signature, then the Crabapple switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a distinct sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
