HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Phoenix mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their unique features and characteristics. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter switch experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix, a clicky switch with an under-skirt click mechanism, provides a unique typing experience with a crystalline and sparkling sound profile. Its crunchy and polished feel sets it apart from traditional clicky switches. Both switches have their own strengths, with the Crabapple excelling in smoothness and subtlety, while the Phoenix stands out for its unique click mechanism. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Phoenix both offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the softer POM material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic advantage to the Phoenix.
While both the Crabapple and the Phoenix have contrasting top and bottom housing materials, the overall sound experience of pressing and releasing a key is affected by these materials. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, influencing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released, adding another layer of auditory feedback to the typing process. This distinction highlights the importance of each housing material in creating a holistic typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of similarities, both the POM and polycarbonate housings of the Crabapple and Phoenix contribute to creating a unique and pleasing sound profile. Despite their differences in sound characteristics, both materials offer distinct advantages in sound quality and aesthetics. Whether you prefer the deep and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the Crabapple and Phoenix provide a premium typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Phoenix has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, but the actuation force is unknown. The Crabapple would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Phoenix would be more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and will provide different typing experiences based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Crabapple switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance traveled compared to the Phoenix switch. This difference may be subtle, but it can impact the overall typing experience for some users. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Phoenix switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial press and depth when typing may lean towards the Crabapple switch. Ultimately, both switches offer different tactile experiences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 is known for its subdued and understated sound profile, offering a more subtle typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy and satisfying click sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct and unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple being more muted and the Phoenix being more crisp and pronounced.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is revered for its frictionless typing experience, providing an effortless and smooth keystroke that minimizes any sense of resistance. Additionally, the switch offers a mild and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch boasts a polished finish that results in a sleek and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. These switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Crabapple feeling smooth and frictionless, while the Phoenix provides a more polished and refined typing experience.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer unique and distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple provides a subdued and frictionless typing experience, the Phoenix delivers a crunchy click sound and a polished feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with both options offering high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience. If a user enjoys a dampened sound and frictionless feel, the Crabapple would be the ideal choice, whereas those seeking a crisp click and polished typing experience may prefer the Outemu Phoenix.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound profile, then the Crabapple switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a unique under-skirt click mechanism that provides a crunchy sound profile, the Phoenix switch may be more to your liking. Your decision should ultimately be based on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience.
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