HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, both of which are linear switches. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, providing a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, making it ideal for environments where silence is key. While the Crabapple is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', 'Textured', the Silent Ink Black is labeled as 'Silky', 'Muted', 'Polished'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. While the Crabapple features POM top and bottom housings that create a deeper and more muted sound, the Silent Ink Black showcases Gateron's proprietary INK blend that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not sharp, clacky sound. This contrast in sound profiles indicates that the two switches will offer distinct typing experiences to users.
Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches share the use of high-quality housing materials that contribute to a pleasing typing experience. The POM housings of the Crabapple are known for creating a unique sound that is deep and muted, while Gateron's proprietary INK blend in the Silent Ink Black produces a satisfying, higher-pitched clacky sound. This suggests that users of both switches can expect a premium feel and sound while typing, albeit with variations in the specific tones and nuances of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Silent Ink Black will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The split qualities of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound with the Crabapple or a pointed, clacky sound with the Silent Ink Black, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter in both regards. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Crabapple provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch and longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force, catering to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Crabapple being the lighter option and the Silent Ink Black being the heavier option for those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Crabapple switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ink Black switch. The shorter travel distance of the Crabapple switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black switch may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable to the user.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 offers a subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch provides a muted sound that is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches. Both switches aim for a quieter typing experience, with the Crabapple being more understated and the Silent Ink Black focusing on minimizing noise.
When it comes to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey while providing a subtle texture with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch boasts a silky and polished feel, giving a cushion-like bottom-out sensation with minimal feedback. Both switches prioritize smoothness in typing, with the Crabapple leaning towards a frictionless approach and the Silent Ink Black emphasizing a refined and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Crabapple and Silent Ink Black linear switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both aim to provide a smooth and pleasant typing experience. The Crabapple excels in offering a frictionless journey with a subdued sound, while the Silent Ink Black prioritizes a cushion-like feel and muted sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users can expect similar results in terms of overall smoothness and quality with either of these switches.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you value a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle sound, the Crabapple switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing environment with a silky and polished feel, the Silent Ink Black switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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