HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, one notable difference lies in their material composition. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness that is complemented by a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus does not have any specific material information provided, leaving it somewhat of a mystery in terms of what to expect. While the Crabapple is characterized by its frictionless feel, mild sound, subdued nature, and textured surface, the Lotus lacks any defined characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs; however, let's dive 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
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Lotus both prioritize creating a pleasing sound profile, with the Crabapple utilizing POM for both the top and bottom housing, while the Lotus uses nylon for these components. POM is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, nylon is revered for its ability to elicit a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials aim to enhance the auditory feedback of typing, they achieve this in slightly different ways, appealing to different preferences of sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Crabapple and the Lotus, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The use of POM in the Crabapple's housing creates a deeper sound that is relatively more muted, while the Lotus's nylon housing produces a fuller and rounder sound. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom housings in a switch - impacting the sound and feel differently when pressing down on a key versus letting go. This division of qualities ensures a multifaceted typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
While the Crabapple and the Lotus have different housing materials, they both excel in creating a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Whether it is the deeper and more muted sound of the POM housing in the Crabapple or the fuller and rounder sound of the nylon housing in the Lotus, both switches prioritize sound quality. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by harder plastics. In this way, both switches offer users a customized typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The actuation force of the Crabapple is 37 grams, slightly heavier than the Lotus's 35 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crabapple requires 45 grams compared to the Lotus's 50 grams. This means that the Lotus has a lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force compared to the Crabapple. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter feel when typing. Depending on personal preference, some may find the Crabapple to be slightly lighter overall, while others may prefer the Lotus for its heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to whether you prefer a slightly lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more deliberate keystroke, the Crabapple would be the better option. However, if you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the Lotus with its slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so either option would provide a satisfying typing experience.
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 Lotus 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
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, creating a dampened and subtle sound signature that is not completely silent but still gentle on the ears. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Moving to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple is praised for its frictionless and fluid typing experience, with a mild and approachable feel that falls in a comfortable middle ground for most users. The Lotus's feel remains unknown, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison on this front. Overall, if the Outemu Lotus linear switch shares similarities with the Crabapple in terms of materials and design, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, without concrete information on the Lotus switch, it's essential to consider personal preferences and try out both switches to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom out force and a frictionless, subtly textured typing journey with a mild and understated sound, the Crabapple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are open to exploring a new switch with unique characteristics, the Lotus could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Take your time to test both switches and choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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