HC Studio Crabapple vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh Sage offer unique typing experiences for users. The Crabapple, a linear switch made entirely from POM, provides a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texturing felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, offering a subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switch from Kailh is a clicky switch known for its heavy weight and sharp, crunchy clickiness, providing an invigorating typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences in typing style. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Kailh Sage differ significantly in terms of their top housing. The Crabapple utilizes POM for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Sage employs polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials not only affects the sound produced by the switches but also contributes to their overall aesthetic appeal. While the Crabapple's POM top housing may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience, the Sage's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and pronounced sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Crabapple and the Sage also showcase distinct characteristics. The Crabapple features a POM bottom housing, which again contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Sage utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile. The use of nylon in the Sage's bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller yet satisfying typing experience. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the importance of the composition of different components in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
While the housing materials of the Crabapple and the Sage differ in both their top and bottom components, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience is undeniable. The use of POM in the Crabapple's housing creates a more subdued sound profile, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. In comparison, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Sage results in a more vibrant and fuller sound, appealing to those who prefer a crisper typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch differ significantly. The Crabapple has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Sage has no specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing. The Crabapple would be suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter weight, while the Sage would be preferred by users looking for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience consistent feedback and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. Therefore, whether you opt for the Crabapple or the Sage switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of 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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle noise when pressed. In contrast, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. The Crabapple switch provides a quieter typing experience overall, while the Sage switch delivers a more pronounced and satisfying auditory feedback, depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple switch boasts a frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless key press with minimal resistance. The switch also has a mild tactile feel, making it approachable and comfortable for most users. Additionally, the Crabapple switch features a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a sharp tactile bump. This results in a more reactive and immersive typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile feel.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch is more subdued and frictionless with a mild tactile feel, the Sage switch provides a crunchy sound and invigorating sharp tactile feedback. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as the desired typing experience. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Crabapple switch may be the better choice, while the Sage switch would be ideal for those seeking a more tactile and clicky typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and effortless typing journey with a subtle sound and gentle feel, the Crabapple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and sharp feedback, the Sage switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you find most enjoyable. So, whether you choose the Crabapple for its frictionless feel or the Sage for its invigorating feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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