HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Tom

Overview

When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, offering an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that is subtly textured. Its sound signature is mild and understated. On the other hand, the Tom is lacking specific standout features but provides a different typing feel. While the Crabapple is best suited for those who prefer a smooth, subtle typing experience, the Tom's appeal lies in its versatility. 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 Tom Tactile

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Tom switches provide unique sound profiles and characteristics. The Crabapple uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. On the other hand, the Tom's nylon bottom housing brings a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.

While the Crabapple and Tom switches both offer unique sound profiles, their housing materials play a key role in shaping the overall typing experience. The combination of POM top and bottom housing in the Crabapple results in a consistent and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. In contrast, the split housing materials in the Tom provide a balance between sharpness and depth, with the polycarbonate top housing contributing to a crisper sound and the nylon bottom housing adding a fuller tone. This combination allows for a versatile typing experience that caters to different preferences.

Overall, the choice between the Crabapple and the Tom switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. The POM housing of the Crabapple offers a more consistent and muted sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon housing of the Tom provides a sharper, crisper sound with deeper tones. Both switches bring unique qualities to the table, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound will determine which switch is the better fit for your typing needs.

Weight

The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Crabapple requires 45 grams to bottom out, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The Crabapple provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, while the Tom offers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Crabapple being the lighter option and the Tom providing a heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, which is favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance than the Tom, which may provide a slightly deeper feel when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for either a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a subtle and understated typing experience. This is in contrast to the Outemu Tom tactile switch for which sound information is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is praised for its frictionless quality, providing an effortless and smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Additionally, it is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The switch also has a subtle texture that adds to the overall tactile feedback felt with each keystroke. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unavailable.

Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a unique typing journey characterized by its smooth, frictionless feel and subdued sound signature. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch remain unknown, it is likely that users can expect a different tactile experience compared to the Crabapple. Ultimately, individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience will play a crucial role in determining which switch is the better fit for each user.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom out force and a smooth, dry feeling with a subtle texture, the Crabapple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with a distinct sound and feel, the Tom switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your own typing style and preferences to ensure the best mechanical keyboard experience for you.

Mentioned in this article

HC Studio Crabapple Linear

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more