HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options to consider are the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Red. The Crabapple switch, made entirely from POM, offers a unique typing experience with its effortlessly frictionless feel and dry smoothness. The subtle texture felt with each keystroke and its mild, understated sound signature make it a favorite among those looking for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch is known for its simplicity and straightforward linear action, making it a no-nonsense option for those who prefer a more basic typing feel. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 comparison between the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Red switches reveals distinct differences in sound profiles and overall characteristics. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, known for creating a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness. The Crabapple's POM bottom housing results in a similar deep and muted sound profile, while the Red's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound by absorbing more sound with its softer texture.
Despite their differences, both the Crabapple and the Red switches highlight the importance of housing materials in determining sound profiles and overall typing experience. The use of POM in the Crabapple creates a unique sound that leans towards deeper tones, while the polycarbonate in the Red offers a sharper and more resonant sound that is enhanced further by its translucency for RGB lighting. Similarly, the Crabapple's nylon bottom housing and the Red's polycarbonate top housing each contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switch when pressed, showcasing the impact of housing materials on typing feedback.
In conclusion, while the Crabapple and the Outemu Red switches showcase contrasting characteristics in their housing materials, both demonstrate the significant role that materials play in shaping sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether it be the softer texture of nylon in the Crabapple or the stiffer polycarbonate in the Red, each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. Ultimately, understanding the differences in housing materials can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red linear switch is heavier with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. The Crabapple switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use, while the Red switch offers a more tactile and forceful typing experience. Both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crabapple switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Red switch. A shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Red switch being more in line with the standard 4.0 mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 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
In terms of sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, information on the sound quality of the Outemu Red linear switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps attached.
Moving on to the typing feel, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless typing journey, crafted entirely from POM to provide an effortlessly smooth and fluid travel with each keystroke. Additionally, it offers a mild and understated sound, accompanied by a subtle texture felt during typing. The Outemu Red switch does not have specific information available regarding its typing feel. It is crucial to consider that user preferences vary, and the typing experience can be subjective based on personal preference.
Overall, when comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch based on the available information, it is evident that the Crabapple switch offers a unique typing experience with its frictionless and textured qualities, along with a subdued sound signature. As for the Outemu Red switch, more information is needed to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, if both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of sound and feel, users can expect to achieve comparable results in typing performance and overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light bottom out force and a frictionless, dry smooth typing journey with a mild and understated sound signature, the Crabapple switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a more traditional typing experience without distinctive characteristics in sound or feel, the Red switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and the typing experience you value most.
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