HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Milk Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Milk Blue stand out with distinct qualities. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM, offering an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that is unlike an oily glide. Its subtle texture and mild, understated sound signature make it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue, a clicky switch, lacks a standout feature but provides a tactile and audible typing feedback that some users prefer. In general, the Crabapple is best for those who value a smooth and textured typing experience, while the Milk Blue is suitable for those who enjoy tactile feedback and audible clicks. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HC Studio Crabapple Linear

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The Crabapple's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Crabapple's bottom housing maintains a deep and pleasing sound, whereas the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound. These differences in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, as the sound and feel of a switch can play a significant role in overall satisfaction.

While the Crabapple's POM housing materials create a unique sound profile, the Milk Blue's polycarbonate and nylon materials offer their own distinct advantages. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound for users who prefer a sharper typing experience. In contrast, the softer nylon material used in the Milk Blue's bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a deeper typing sensation. These differences highlight the importance of understanding how different housing materials can influence the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.

Overall, while the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Milk Blue offer contrasting sound profiles, they both contribute to a unique typing experience. Whether a user prefers a deeper and muted sound from POM or a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate, each switch provides a distinct feel and tone. Additionally, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can further enhance the overall typing experience, with the qualities of each material impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, understanding the nuances of different housing materials is crucial for users seeking a personalized and satisfying typing experience.

Weight

The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Since the bottom out force for the Milk Blue switch is unknown, it is unclear how it compares in that aspect. Ultimately, the Crabapple switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Milk Blue switch is heavier, providing users with different options based on their preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Crabapple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milk Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both fall within the realm of modern switch travel distances, with the Crabapple leaning towards the shorter end and the Milk Blue being more traditional. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Crabapple, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Milk Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch’s sound characteristics are unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is revered for its frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keypress that minimizes any sense of resistance or friction. Additionally, it provides a mild and approachable typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of both sound and feel. The switch also features a subtle texture felt with each keypress. On the contrary, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch’s feel qualities are unspecified.

In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch stands out for its subdued sound profile, frictionless feel, and mild typing experience with a subtle texture. It offers a unique and smooth typing journey that caters to those seeking a more understated and effortless keypress. As for the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, while its sound and feel characteristics are not specified, users can expect varying results depending on their specific setup and personal preference. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities and it is important for newcomers to experiment and find the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a mild sound profile, the Crabapple switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback, the Milk Blue switch might be the better option. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and choose accordingly. In the end, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose wisely based on your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HC Studio Crabapple Linear

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more