HC Studio Crabapple vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their unique standout features. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortless and frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for a more energetic typing experience. While the Crabapple is categorized as ['Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', 'Textured'], the Salt Ice switches do not fall into any specific categories. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 HC Studio Crabapple and the Jerrzi Salt Ice keyboards both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Crabapple features a POM top and bottom housing, which create a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Salt Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials offer pleasing sound profiles, the POM housing of the Crabapple creates a more subdued experience compared to the bold and clear sound of the polycarbonate used in the Salt Ice.
In terms of aesthetics, the Crabapple's POM top and bottom housing provide a sleek and sophisticated look, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate housing offers a more modern and transparent appearance. The use of polycarbonate in the Salt Ice allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall visual experience of the keyboard. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound profile, making key presses more crisp and satisfying. In contrast, the POM housing of the Crabapple may provide a more subtle and understated look, with a focus on sound quality over visual appeal.
Overall, while the Crabapple and Salt Ice keyboards have different housing materials, both offer unique advantages in terms of sound and aesthetics. The POM housing of the Crabapple provides a pleasing and mellow sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice offers a sharper and more vibrant sound experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and muted sound or a crisper and higher-pitched sound, both keyboards deliver high-quality performance based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound profile and visual style.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The Crabapple also has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Crabapple switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. In contrast, users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Salt Ice switch with its heavier actuation force. Both switches offer different options for individuals based on their preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is slightly longer at 3.6mm compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch at 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance could result in a slightly different typing experience. Those who prefer a more rapid and responsive feel may lean towards the Salt Ice with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may prefer the Crabapple. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more modern and efficient typing 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 mild sound profile, providing a quieter and more understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch boasts a bright and clacky sound, offering a more pronounced and energetic typing feedback. When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and textured qualities, providing a smooth and effortless typing journey with a subtle tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch's feel remains unspecified. Overall, while the Crabapple switch caters to those looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Salt Ice switch is ideal for users seeking a more vibrant and responsive feel with a louder sound signature. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the characteristics that align with your typing preferences. If you value a light bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Crabapple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a vibrant and clacky typing experience with bright feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prioritize and enjoy the most.
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