HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silent White mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, boasts a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness complemented by a subtle texture felt with each key press. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent White switch lacks any specific standout features. While the Crabapple is characterized by its frictionless nature, mild sound, subdued feel, and textured surface, the Silent White does not have any defined characteristics. If you value a frictionless and textured typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Crabapple switch may be the way to go. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can determine the best switch for your needs.
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
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silent White lies in their top housing. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch that the Crabapple lacks.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Crabapple and Silent White also differ. The Crabapple uses a POM bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound profile as its top housing. Conversely, the Silent White incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. This contrast in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall sound and feel of each switch when typing, with the Silent White offering a more muted and satisfying typing experience compared to the Crabapple.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silent White will depend on personal preference for sound profiles and typing experience. While both switches offer unique characteristics with their housing materials, the Crabapple's POM housings provide a consistent deep and muted sound profile throughout, while the Silent White's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings produces a sharper and more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, users looking for a quieter and softer sound may prefer the Crabapple, whereas those seeking a crisper and fuller sound may lean towards the Silent White.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Crabapple switch also requires less force at 45 grams, while the Silent White switch has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Silent White switch, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent White switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent White. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. If you prioritize a quicker and more responsive keystroke, the Silent White may be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and tactile feedback when typing, the Crabapple with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between these switches may not be significant, and you are likely to get similar results in terms of overall typing experience with either option.
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 Silent White 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 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 regarding the sound of the Outemu Silent White linear switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and effortless typing experience, thanks to its POM construction. This results in a smooth and fluid travel with minimal resistance, offering a mild and approachable typing experience that falls within the middle ground of switch characteristics. Additionally, users may notice a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Conversely, details about the feel of the Outemu Silent White linear switch are unavailable.
Considering the available information, the Crabapple linear switch stands out for its distinctive dry smoothness, mild and understated sound, as well as the frictionless and textured feel provided during typing. While details about the Outemu Silent White switch are lacking, users can expect a smooth and possibly quieter typing experience. If you enjoy the qualities offered by the Crabapple, you might find similar results with the Outemu Silent White switch in terms of smoothness and potentially a quieter sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Crabapple with a bottom out force of 45 grams may be the better option for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Crabapple's POM construction and dry smoothness may suit your preference. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams and are looking for a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent White switch may be the way to go. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize a lighter touch or a quieter typing experience.
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