HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Cream Blue. The Crabapple switch is a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, offering a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that is distinct and subtle. Its sound signature is mild and understated, with a subtle texture felt with each key press. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch from Outemu is a clicky switch known for its satisfying click sound. While the Crabapple switch is best for those who prefer a smooth and subdued typing experience, the Cream Blue switch is ideal for individuals who enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials for the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Cream Blue have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Crabapple features POM top and bottom housings, which create a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. In contrast, the Cream Blue utilizes nylon top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon plastic which absorbs more sound. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the Crabapple producing a more subtle sound while the Cream Blue delivers a more robust and rounded sound.
While both switches incorporate unique housing materials for their top and bottom components, the qualities of these materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. This division of characteristics highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the HC Studio Crabapple and Outemu Cream Blue both aim to enhance the typing experience by creating a distinctive sound profile. The POM and nylon materials used in the Crabapple and Cream Blue, respectively, contribute to the switches' unique acoustics, with POM offering a more muted and pleasing sound while nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Regardless of the specific material used, both switches prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback, ensuring that typing on either switch is a satisfying and immersive experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ significantly. The Crabapple 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 touch. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the Crabapple offers a lighter typing experience, the Cream Blue switch provides a heavier and more tactile feel, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Blue switch has a longer travel distance than the Crabapple switch. The 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel, while the 3.6mm length of the Crabapple may feel more responsive, especially for gamers looking for quicker response times. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Crabapple offering a shorter travel distance for responsiveness and the Cream Blue providing a longer travel distance for a more substantial key press feel.
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 Cream 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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it's clear that the Crabapple switch offers a subdued sound signature and a frictionless typing experience with a mild and textured feel. On the other hand, information about the Cream Blue switch is not available. Therefore, if you enjoy a smooth and quiet typing experience with a subtle texture, the Crabapple switch would be a suitable choice for you. Keep in mind that sound and feel are also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider all components when selecting the right switch for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light and effortless typing journey with a subtle texture and mild sound, the Crabapple switch crafted from POM material may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a more pronounced sound and feel, the Cream Blue clicky switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
