HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it's evident that they cater to different typing preferences. The Crabapple is lauded for its frictionless typing experience, crafted entirely from POM material to provide a smooth and dry glide with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, offering a unique typing sensation characterized by frictionless and mild qualities as well as subdued and textured elements. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown is known for its tactile feedback without any additional features emphasized. While the Crabapple appeals to those who prefer a smoother typing experience, the Crystal Brown caters to tactile enthusiasts. However, let's delve 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
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
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
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback based on the materials used. The POM top housing of the Crabapple creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal Brown produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, adding to its visual appeal. In terms of sound, the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple contributes to a deeper and more pleasing sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown results in a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature.
While the top housing materials of the Crabapple and Crystal Brown switches differ in terms of sound profiles, they each offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The POM top housing of the Crabapple provides a more muted and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal Brown delivers a sharper and crisper sound. The tactile feedback experienced when pressing down on the switch will be influenced by the bottom housing material, with the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple contributing to a deeper sound and the nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown creating a fuller sound. This split in housing materials demonstrates how each component plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Crabapple and Crystal Brown switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile feedback. The POM and polycarbonate housing materials each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple leaning towards a deeper and more muted sound profile while the Crystal Brown provides a sharper and crisper sound. Whether it be for aesthetic purposes, sound quality, or typing feel, both switches offer distinctive characteristics that cater to a range of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, the Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Crystal Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their force requirements. The lighter actuation force of the Crabapple makes it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, where a lighter touch is desired. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier force requirements, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal 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 Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crystal Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. A 0.4 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can affect the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a shallower, quicker press may lean towards the Crabapple, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Crystal Brown. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so users can expect a balanced typing experience with either option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Crystal Brown 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 Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches, making it suitable for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, information about the sound signature of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is currently unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a fluid travel with each keystroke. Additionally, it has a mild tactile feel that falls in the middle-ground zone, making it comfortable for a wide range of users. Furthermore, the Crabapple switch has a subtle texture that adds to the overall typing experience. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is not provided.
In conclusion, while the Crabapple linear switch is praised for its quiet and smooth typing experience with a mild tactile feel and subtle texture, details about the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are currently unavailable. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with similar qualities to the Crabapple, you may expect a pleasant typing experience with minimal sound and effortless key presses, as well as a comfortable middle-ground tactile feel. It is essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subtle texture, and a subdued sound signature, then the Crabapple switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and are looking for a tactile typing experience without any specific sound characteristics mentioned, then the Crystal Brown switch could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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