HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Red both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple is a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, known for providing an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red from Outemu offers a different appeal with its lack of specific distinguishing features. 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
60g
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 HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Red differ in their housing materials, with the Crabapple featuring a POM top housing while the Dustproof Red has a polycarbonate top housing. The POM housing of the Crabapple creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Dustproof Red produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Crabapple utilizes a POM housing that contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which creates a fuller and deeper sound when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the POM housing of the Crabapple.
Overall, while the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Dustproof Red differ, they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The POM housing of the Crabapple creates a pleasing and distinct sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon housings of the Dustproof Red offer sharper and deeper sound profiles, respectively. Whether it's the bottom or top housing that influences the sound, each material brings its own characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. The Crabapple requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, while the Dustproof Red needs 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Crabapple more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Overall, those who prefer a lighter switch should opt for the Crabapple, while those who prefer a heavier switch should choose the Dustproof Red.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is shallower. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the 3.6 mm Crabapple a popular choice for gaming setups. However, those who prefer a deeper feel when typing may opt for the 4 mm Dustproof Red switch. Ultimately, both switches provide unique experiences based on individual preferences, with the shorter distance offering faster response times and the longer distance providing 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 Dustproof Red 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 HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both sound and feel. The Crabapple switch offers a subdued sound profile with a dry smoothness and subtle texture with each key press, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Red switch's sound qualities are unknown, making it difficult to compare. In terms of feel, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless nature, mild characteristics, and textured feel, offering a smooth and approachable typing experience. Again, the feel of the Dustproof Red switch remains unknown. Considering the available information, it's clear that the HC Studio Crabapple switch offers a distinctive typing journey with its specific sound and feel qualities, while the Outemu Dustproof Red switch's characteristics remain a mystery. Therefore, opting for the Crabapple switch will likely provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers seeking a unique switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a frictionless typing experience with a subtle texture and mild sound, the Crabapple switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and are looking for a switch that offers dustproof protection without much information on sound and feel, the Dustproof Red switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your typing style and preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel.
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