HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver, also made from POM, offers a short travel distance for lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound profile, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature POM top and bottom housings, creating a similar sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This results in a pleasing and unique sound that is distinct from other housing materials. While both switches share this commonality in housing material, the way in which the top and bottom housings interact with the overall sound and feel of the switch can differ slightly between the two.
In terms of the Crabapple, the POM top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile by emphasizing a deeper, more muted tone when typing. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This dynamic balance between the top and bottom housing materials creates a cohesive typing experience that is both satisfying and consistent.
On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver also utilizes POM top and bottom housings to achieve a similar pleasing and unique sound profile. Like the Crabapple, the bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver plays a significant role in the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these similarities, there may be subtle differences in the way each switch implements POM housing materials, leading to slight variations in typing feel and sound between the two. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience thanks to their POM housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is the lighter of the two. The Crabapple has a lower actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 grams. However, the Crabapple has a higher bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much force is needed to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Crabapple may be the more suitable option. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Crabapple. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more common, especially among gamers who desire faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prioritize a quicker response, the Smoothie Silver would be the better option, but if you prefer a bit more depth in the switch's travel, the Crabapple might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results due to their comparable travel distances.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 offers a subdued experience with a dampened sound that is not completely silent but provides a more subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is described as having a "thocky" sound, which implies a deeper and more resonant tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless journey with minimal resistance. Additionally, it offers a mild and approachable typing sensation that falls in a safe middle ground of tactile feedback. The switch also provides a subtle texture with each keystroke, adding a tactile element to the typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is not provided, so it's hard to draw a direct comparison.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch stands out for its smooth and textured feel, along with a subdued sound profile that caters to users looking for a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver offers a unique "thocky" sound and fast actuation, but further information on its feel is needed for a comprehensive comparison. Overall, both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, yet they share the commonality of delivering a smooth typing experience that novice users can appreciate.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and frictionless feel with a light touch, the Crabapple switches crafted from POM would be a suitable choice. They offer a subtle texture and a mild sound signature for a comfortable typing journey. On the other hand, if you prefer lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Smoothie Silver switches, also made from POM, would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a gentle and frictionless typing experience (Crabapple) or a quick and thocky feel (Smoothie Silver).
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