HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Brown present intriguing options for different preferences. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, offers a unique typing experience characterized by an effortlessly frictionless journey. Its distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture with each downstroke set it apart from traditional oily glides. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown by Outemu is a tactile switch without any standout features. While the Crabapple boasts qualities such as being 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured', the Dustproof Brown remains more enigmatic in its categorization. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing styles; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Brown lies in the top housing. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Crabapple offering a more subdued sound and the Dustproof Brown delivering a more vibrant and clear sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Crabapple and Dustproof Brown use different materials once again. The Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to the switch's pleasing and unique sound profile, which is deeper and more muted. In comparison, the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and deeper sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material can result in a noticeable variation in sound and feel when typing on these switches.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom differ between the Crabapple and Dustproof Brown, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience is divided accordingly. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple delivering a more subdued sound and the Dustproof Brown producing a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is lighter compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Dustproof Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Crabapple requires less force to trigger a keystroke and reach the bottom of the switch compared to the Dustproof Brown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crabapple, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force requirements, which may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Dustproof Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.4 mm may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. Players who prioritize quick response times might prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Crabapple, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Brown. 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 Dustproof 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
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued sound profile with a mild and frictionless typing experience due to its POM construction and factory lubrication. The feeling of each keypress is characterized by a dry smoothness and a subtle texture that adds to the overall typing journey. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Crabapple switch would provide a quieter and smoother typing experience compared to the Dustproof Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a frictionless typing experience with a mild sound profile, the Crabapple switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a tactile feedback, the Dustproof Brown switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences and needs when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typists, so choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences for the best experience.
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