HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Smoothie are two popular options to consider. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM and provides an effortlessly frictionless typing experience. It offers a distinct dry smoothness that is complemented by a subtle texture felt with each downstroke, emitting a mild and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie, also a linear switch made from POM, offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. It is known for shattering the price barrier without compromising on quality. The Smoothie is categorized as buttery, thocky, low-pitched, creamy, subdued, and silky, while the Crabapple is categorized as frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Smoothie are made of POM, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile. Both switches have a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to other housing materials. This makes them ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. The use of POM in both the top and bottom housings of these switches ensures consistency in sound and feel throughout the typing process.
Despite both switches using POM for their housing materials, the Crabapple and the Smoothie may differ in the specific characteristics of their top and bottom housings. The qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This means that the overall typing experience and sound profile may vary slightly between the two switches, depending on how the housing materials are implemented in their design.
Overall, users can expect a similar typing experience from both the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Smoothie due to their shared use of POM housing materials. The deep and muted sound profile created by POM makes these switches suitable for environments where noise may be a concern. The split impact of the housing materials on the typing process ensures a balanced feel and sound, with the bottom housing contributing to the key press and the top housing influencing the key release. Whether choosing the Crabapple or the Smoothie, users can enjoy a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with a focus on quieter operation.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Smoothie. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams and an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crabapple, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Smoothie due to its slightly heavier actuation force. In both cases, users can expect a smooth keystroke, though with slightly different levels of force required for operation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Crabapple and the Smoothie switches offer a similar typing experience, as they provide an equal amount of travel for users to feel when using their keyboards.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 switch is known for its subdued and mild sound signature, offering a dampened and subtle noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch boasts a thocky and low-pitched sound that produces a deep, rich tone that resonates with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple providing a more understated auditory experience, while the Smoothie delivers a satisfying and bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple switch is celebrated for its frictionless and mild characteristics, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle texture felt during each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke sensation that glides effortlessly across the keys. While the Crabapple switch focuses on minimizing resistance and friction for a comfortable typing feel, the Smoothie switch emphasizes a silky and smooth experience with factory-lubed precision.
Overall, both the HC Studio Crabapple and Gateron Smoothie switches present unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Crabapple offers a more subdued sound and a frictionless typing experience, the Smoothie showcases a thocky sound and a buttery, creamy feel that emphasizes smoothness. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can achieve similar satisfying results with either switch based on their desired auditory and tactile experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, material, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a switch crafted entirely from POM with a dry smoothness and subtle texture, the Crabapple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a thocky sound with remarkable smoothness and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience and what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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