HC Studio Crabapple vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), a tactile switch. The Crabapple switches, crafted entirely from POM, are known for providing an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switches offer a medium tactile feel with a satisfying level of resistance, making for a precise and comfortable typing experience. While the Crabapple switches are mild and understated in sound, the Silent Bluish Whites are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. Each switch has unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on what kind of typing experience you are looking for. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offer contrasting sound profiles and experiences. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, providing a unique sound profile that is distinct from the crisp and sharp sound produced by the Silent Bluish White (V2)'s polycarbonate and nylon housings. The use of POM in the Crabapple results in a more subdued sound, whereas the polycarbonate and nylon housings of the Silent Bluish White (V2) deliver a fuller and rounder sound experience.
While the POM top housing of the Crabapple and the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) both contribute to a unique sound profile, they offer distinctly different characteristics. The POM top housing of the Crabapple creates a deeper and more muted sound, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that feature RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the POM and nylon housings of the Crabapple and Silent Bluish White (V2) respectively, also offer diverging sound profiles. The POM bottom housing of the Crabapple contributes to its deep and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) elicits a fuller and rounder sound. These differences in housing materials impact the overall sound experience of the switches, with each material bringing its own unique qualities to the table.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 42 grams. When it comes to the bottom out force, the Crabapple is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) is slightly heavier at 50 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for typing for extended periods without causing fatigue. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is slightly longer at 3.6 mm compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch at 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Silent Bluish White (V2) a potentially better option for gaming. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Crabapple switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience with only a minor difference in 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 and dampened sound, offering a subtle and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is described as producing a muted and softer sound, perfect for environments where noise needs to be minimized. Both switches provide a quiet typing experience, ensuring that your keyboard won't disrupt others around you.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple switch is recognized for its frictionless and mild typing experience. The POM material used in these switches creates a smooth and effortless keystroke, perfect for those who prefer a subtle tactile feel. In comparison, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a buttery and stepped typing sensation, providing a comfortable level of resistance and a uniform keystroke. Both switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience, ensuring that your fingers will be happy during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch both excel in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience. While the Crabapple switch emphasizes a frictionless and mild texture, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch focuses on a buttery and stepped feel. Whether you prefer a dampened sound with a smooth keystroke or a muted sound with a comfortable resistance, both of these switches will deliver a satisfying typing journey. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a frictionless and textured typing experience with a mild and subdued sound signature, opt for the Crabapple switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery and stepped tactile feel with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch would be your best choice. Ultimately, the Crabapple is ideal for those who value a smooth and effortless typing journey, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) is perfect for individuals seeking a precise and quiet typing experience, especially in shared or office spaces. Make your decision based on which characteristics align best with your typing preferences for an optimal keyboarding experience.
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