HC Studio Crabapple vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are distinctive characteristics that set them apart. The Crabapple switch, made entirely from POM, offers a uniquely frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that sets it apart from the typical oily feel of other switches. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the Crabapple switch is known for its mild and understated sound, the RedBlue switch offers a thocky and polished sound. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Crabapple excelling in its texture and subdued feel, and the RedBlue standing out for its neutral and polished attributes. 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
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the HC Studio Crabapple and the SP-Star RedBlue switches have unique characteristics due to their housing materials. The Crabapple uses POM for both its top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for both housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound, especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting.
While the Crabapple and RedBlue switches both have distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, their differences lie in the specific qualities of POM and polycarbonate. POM creates a more pleasing and unique sound, with a deeper and muted tone, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, polycarbonate produces a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness, which appeals to those looking for a more defined and resonant typing sound. Despite these variations, both materials offer their own advantages and cater to different preferences.
In terms of functionality, the choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top and bottom housings of a switch can impact how the typing experience feels. The qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the housing materials chosen for each part of the switch can significantly alter the overall typing experience, making it important to consider the specific characteristics of POM and polycarbonate when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch. The Crabapple requires a gentle 37 grams of force to actuate a key, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Crabapple needs just 45 grams, whereas the RedBlue has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a bit more resistance, offering a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more weight to their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the RedBlue, making it more suitable for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Crabapple for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster keystrokes during gaming sessions. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press and a more tactile feedback. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences and needs of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a subdued and mild sound profile, offering a quiet and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch presents a low-pitched and thocky sound, creating a deeper and more satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple leaning towards a quieter typing experience and the RedBlue providing a more pronounced and bass-heavy sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and textured feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle texture felt during each keystroke. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel. While the Crabapple emphasizes a frictionless and textured feel, the RedBlue prioritizes a polished and mild typing sensation, catering to users who prefer different levels of tactile feedback and smoothness.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Crabapple excels in providing a subdued sound with a frictionless and textured feel, while the RedBlue delivers a low-pitched sound with a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. However, both switches are crafted to provide a satisfying typing journey for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light and frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture, the Crabapple switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a polished finish for smooth key travel, the RedBlue switch would be the better choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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