HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, a noticeable difference lies in their key features and characteristics. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture during each keystroke. Its mild and understated sound signature sets it apart, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch lacks any specific standout feature but provides a standard linear switch experience. While the Crabapple switch boasts qualities like being frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured, the Silent Yellow is categorized with no specific characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. 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
2.20 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 housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches provide different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The POM top housing of the Crabapple creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, giving it an aesthetic advantage. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple offers a similar deep and muted sound profile as the top housing, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow provides a softer and fuller sound experience due to its ability to absorb more sound.
Although the housing materials of the Crabapple and the Silent Yellow have their differences, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience in their own unique ways. The POM material used in both top and bottom housings of the Crabapple creates a consistent and pleasing sound profile throughout the typing process. In contrast, the Silent Yellow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing splits the sound and tactile qualities between the top and bottom, resulting in a dynamic typing experience. Both switches focus on delivering a satisfying typing experience, with the Crabapple prioritizing a deeper sound profile and the Silent Yellow offering a sharper and crisper sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silent Yellow will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. The Crabapple's POM housing provides a more consistent and muted sound profile, ideal for those seeking a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing offers a dynamic sound profile with sharper tones and deeper sounds, perfect for those looking for a more varied typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and deliver a satisfying feel with every key press.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more solid and substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. The Crabapple offers a more gentle typing experience with less force required, while the Silent Yellow provides a more robust and tactile response for those who desire a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The shorter travel distance of the Crabapple switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Yellow switch may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize speed or keypress depth in your 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 Silent Yellow 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 subtle and understated acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HC Studio Crabapple is lauded for its frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey with minimal resistance. Additionally, its mild and textured qualities provide a comfortable typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Meanwhile, the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is unspecified.
Taking into account the information provided, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch stands out for its subdued sound and frictionless, textured feel. While the characteristics of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch are unknown, if one desires a typing experience similar to the Crabapple, it would be recommended to consider switches with similar attributes such as a mild and textured feel, along with a subtle and dampened sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a frictionless typing experience with a subtle texture and mild sound, the Crabapple switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and prioritize a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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