HC Studio Crabapple vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Crabapple from HC Studio and the Purple Sakura from Sarokeys present two compelling options to consider. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt during each keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, boasts a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of pronounced tactility without being overpowering. While the Crabapple is characterized by its mild and subdued nature, the Purple Sakura offers a mild and neutral sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HC Studio Crabapple and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both offer unique housing materials that contribute to distinct sound profiles. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings produce a sharper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate top housing in the Purple Sakura results in a crisper sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting, whereas the POM bottom housing in the Crabapple delivers a unique and pleasing sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura's top housing allows for a clear and translucent appearance that is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Crabapple's POM top housing provides a more solid and opaque look. The nylon bottom housing in the Purple Sakura offers a classic and durable option that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing in the Crabapple complements the overall muted sound experience. Both switches showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and visual appeal of the keyboard.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is clear that each switch offers unique characteristics that contribute to the sound profile. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing in the Purple Sakura offering a softer and fuller typing experience compared to the POM bottom housing in the Crabapple. Conversely, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing in the Purple Sakura delivering a crisp and resonant sound compared to the POM top housing in the Crabapple, which creates a more muted sound profile. Ultimately, the housing materials in both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch. The Crabapple requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, while the Purple Sakura needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. The Crabapple is lighter in both aspects, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out force. Individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Purple Sakura more to their liking. In summary, the Crabapple is lighter, making it ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Purple Sakura provides a medium force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Crabapple. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers may prefer the Purple Sakura for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Crabapple. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 offers a subdued and understated sound signature, creating a dampened sound when pressed that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes without being too loud or overwhelming. The choice of board and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound produced by each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is characterized by its frictionless and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance or friction while offering a fluid travel. Additionally, it features a mild and approachable typing feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, making it suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as providing a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation with a snappy response that adds a lively feel to the typing experience.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple switch provides a subdued and frictionless typing experience with a mild sound signature, while the Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery and snappy feel with a neutral sound profile. Depending on your preference for typing feel and sound, both switches present unique options that cater to different user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a frictionless typing experience with a mild and understated sound, the Crabapple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a snappy and buttery typing feel, along with a neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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