HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer two distinct typing experiences. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM, providing a smooth and frictionless typing journey with a subtle texture felt with each key press. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green, a clicky switch, doesn't have any specific standout features mentioned but is known for its clicky tactile feedback. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy the audible and satisfying click sound with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
The HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Green both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Crabapple features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and relatively muted sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Green utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Green allows for clearer and more resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. While both switches provide pleasing sound profiles, the difference in housing materials results in distinct auditory experiences for users.
The Crabapple's POM bottom housing offers a similar sound profile to its POM top housing, focusing on depth and muted tones. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material that absorbs more sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Green contributes to a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper sound profile of its polycarbonate top housing. This combination of housing materials in each switch allows for a dynamic sound experience that caters to different preferences.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the two components. The bottom housing of a switch, whether POM or nylon, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing, whether POM or polycarbonate, plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released. This division of housing materials in the Crabapple and Dustproof Green highlights the importance of choosing switches based on individual sound preferences and typing experience.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Crabapple has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. The lighter actuation force of the Crabapple allows for a smoother typing experience and is suitable for extended typing sessions, while the heavier forces of the Dustproof Green provide a more tactile and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dustproof Green has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a different feel and response due to their slight variance in travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
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 Green 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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle and understated sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and effortless typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid travel with minimal resistance or friction. The Crabapple also provides a mild and gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, there is a subtle texture felt with each downstroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is unknown, preventing a direct comparison between the two switches in this regard.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch stands out for its smooth and frictionless typing journey, subdued sound signature, and mild feel that caters to a wide range of users. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch remain unknown, it's important to consider individual preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience that suits your needs. Ultimately, selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard requires careful consideration of factors such as sound, feel, and personal preferences in order to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, effortless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, then the Crabapple switch might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a more tactile, clicky typing experience, then the Dustproof Green switch could be the way to go. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what suits your typing style best.
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