HC Studio Crabapple vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Crabapple switch, made entirely from POM, offers a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that provides a subtle texture with each keystroke. Its sound profile is mild and understated, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its medium level of tactility, with a lower actuation and bottom-out force that provides a bouncy feel when typing. Additionally, it offers a deep and thocky sound profile for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing to different types of users; 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
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring lies in the type of plastic used. The Crabapple features POM housings for both the top and bottom, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound compared to POM.
One similarity between the two switches is that they both prioritize sound quality in their housing materials. The POM housings of the Crabapple create an incredibly pleasing sound profile that is unique and deep, while the polycarbonate housings of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring produce a sharper and crisper sound that is clear and resonant. Both switches aim to provide a high-quality auditory experience for users, albeit through different sound profiles achieved by the choice of housing material.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's housings allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This clear housing showcases the inner components and lighting effects, enhancing the overall visual appeal. In contrast, the Crabapple's POM housings do not offer this translucency, resulting in a more opaque and traditional appearance. However, both switches prioritize both functionality and visual appeal in their housing materials, catering to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Crabapple is the lighter of the two. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light option. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crabapple would be the more suitable choice, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback in their keystrokes, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. The 3.6 mm of the Crabapple falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) provides a deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 is characterized by a subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch features a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a distinct and satisfying auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple switch stands out for its frictionless typing experience, providing an effortlessly smooth journey with a mild and understated tactile feedback. These switches offer a gentle typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives a lively feel with rebound when pressed. While the Crabapple switch focuses on minimizing resistance and providing a fluid travel, the Shadow switch focuses on a more dynamic and lively typing experience.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it's evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple switch offers a subdued sound with a frictionless and mild typing experience, while the Shadow switch provides a deep thocky sound with a bouncy and lively feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience or a more dynamic and tactile one. If one enjoys a switch with a subtle sound and smooth feel, opting for the Crabapple would be ideal, whereas those seeking a distinct sound and more pronounced tactile feedback may lean towards the Shadow switch. Both switches provide quality typing experiences, with the ultimate decision resting on personal preference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making a decision between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a frictionless typing experience with a mild and understated sound profile, the Crabapple switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-level tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing feel and sound preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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