HC Studio Crabapple vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its mild and understated sound signature makes typing a quiet and subdued experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches feature a long pole design that produces a snappy sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. While maintaining a smooth actuation, these switches offer a pleasing tactile experience with a bouncy and clacky feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a frictionless and quiet typing experience with the Crabapple or a snappier and more tactile feel with the V3 Piano Pro. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Akko V3 Piano Pro differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Crabapple features POM top and bottom housings, known for creating a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and more muted profile. On the other hand, the Piano Pro utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound overall.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Crabapple and the Piano Pro offer a similar experience in terms of sound production. The POM and nylon housings of the Crabapple and Piano Pro, respectively, contribute to the switches' overall sound profiles by creating a deeper and fuller tone. While the specific qualities of each material may vary, the end result is a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound signature that appeals to keyboard enthusiasts.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience can be felt in different ways depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Both the POM and nylon housings of the Crabapple and Piano Pro showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a distinct typing feel and sound profile that enhances the overall user experience.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch would be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Crabapple switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions, while the V3 Piano Pro switch is medium-light, providing a good balance for different typing preferences. Both switches offer varying levels of actuation and bottom out force, providing users with options for a customized typing experience depending on their preferences.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Crabapple offers a slightly deeper keypress feel compared to the V3 Piano Pro. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Crabapple, while those looking for a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 understated sound profile, providing a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound, creating a sharp and lively typing experience with a higher-pitched, clean sound profile. The Crabapple switch focuses on providing a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the V3 Piano Pro switch emphasizes on a crisp and percussive sound with snappy characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel with a subtle texture felt during each keystroke. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing a spring-like feedback sensation along with a smooth, buttery feel that enhances the overall typing experience. The V3 Piano Pro switch prioritizes a lively and rebounding feel, while the Crabapple switch focuses on effortless and fluid key travel.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet and subtle typing experience with a frictionless feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is perfect for individuals looking for a crisp and lively typing experience with a bouncy and silky smooth feel, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when it comes to choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it all depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound signature, the Crabapple switch might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force, a snappy sound signature, and a smooth yet bouncy feel while typing, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch could be more to your liking. Consider the characteristics of each switch and decide which qualities align best with your typing style and preferences before making your choice. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what features you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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