HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple to the Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the key differences between the two. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, offering an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch has less information available about its characteristics, but generally offers a linear typing feel. While the Crabapple excels in providing a textured and frictionless typing journey, the Silver switch may appeal to those who prefer a straightforward linear switch without added texture. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silver, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles based on the materials used. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Crabapple offering a more subdued sound and the Silver providing a more vibrant and pronounced sound.
In terms of material properties, the Crabapple's POM housing is known for its unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. On the other hand, the Silver's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile. This difference in material properties between the two switches can lead to a varied typing experience, with the Crabapple offering a distinct sound profile and the Silver providing a more immersive and robust typing experience.
Although the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Silver differ significantly, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Crabapple's POM housing creates a more muted and deep sound, the Silver's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials result in a sharper and crisper sound. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the material properties of the housing influencing the overall sound and feel of each keystroke. Ultimately, users can choose between the Crabapple and the Silver based on their preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter in terms of both forces compared to the Silver switch. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Crabapple make it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Silver switch provide a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing force and experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while a 3.0mm distance is shallower. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Crabapple a popular choice in this case. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Outemu Silver may be more suitable due to its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific feel that the user is looking for in their keyboard.
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 Silver 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 is known for its subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch offers a frictionless and effortless typing experience, along with a mild and textured feel that can cater to a wide range of users. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch is also unknown, making it hard to draw a comparison.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch seems to offer a unique typing journey with its dry smoothness and subtle texture, providing a mild sound and a frictionless feel. Without information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch, it's challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches. However, if the Silver switch is similar in design and material to the Crabapple switch, it's possible that users will experience similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual prefers.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light and effortless typing journey with a subtle texture and mild sound, the Crabapple switch with its POM construction and bottom out force of 45 grams would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams and are indifferent to specific sound and feel characteristics, the Silver switch could be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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