HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the KTT Peach linear switch, both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch boasts a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Peach both offer unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profiles of the switches. While the Crabapple features a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound, the Peach's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can affect the overall typing experience, with the Crabapple providing a softer feel and the Peach offering a more distinct and resonant feedback. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Peach allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Crabapple's POM material shares similarities with the Peach's nylon housing in creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the POM material in the Crabapple contributes to a more muted sound, while the nylon material in the Peach absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in sound profiles between the two bottom housings can offer users a choice between a softer, more subdued typing experience with the Crabapple or a deeper, fuller sound with the Peach.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials in the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Peach offer users a variety of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences. While the Crabapple provides a unique and pleasing sound with its POM top and bottom housing, the Peach offers a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Whether users prefer a deeper, more muted typing experience or a sharper, more resonant feedback, both switches offer distinct qualities that can cater to different preferences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Peach linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force that is heavier than their actuation force, with the Crabapple requiring 45 grams and the Peach requiring 53 grams. The Crabapple is lighter overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer to type for longer periods without fatiguing their fingers. On the other hand, the Peach provides a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Peach linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Peach provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 is known for its subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and mild characteristics, offering an effortlessly smooth typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each key press. The Peach switch, on the other hand, is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It's important to note that the feel of a switch is a personal preference, so trying out different switches is recommended to find the one that suits your typing style best.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple and KTT Peach linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch provides a dry smoothness and a subdued sound, the Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. It's recommended to try out both switches to determine which one best suits your needs and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the KTT Peach linear switch, it ultimately boils 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 and dry smoothness, then the Crabapple switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and prioritize a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, then the Peach switch might be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, so it's essential to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enhances your overall keyboarding experience.
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