HC Studio Crabapple vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, providing a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness that is complemented by a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it a great choice for those who prefer a subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile feel with a clean and crispy sound profile, giving it a gentle tactility that some users may prefer. While the Crabapple is categorized as frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured, the Duck is categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but it's important to delve deeper into their individual traits to determine the best switch for your typing needs. Let's explore these nuances further so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the SP-Star Duck differ in terms of the sound profile they produce. The POM housing of the Crabapple creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Duck offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall auditory experience of using a keyboard. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Duck's housing allows for a clearer and more resonant sound profile compared to the POM housing of the Crabapple.
In addition to sound differences, the housing materials of the Crabapple and Duck also differ in terms of aesthetics and functionality. The translucency of polycarbonate used in the Duck's housing makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the POM housing of the Crabapple may not offer the same level of visual appeal with RGB lighting. This highlights how the choice of housing material can impact not only the sound but also the overall look and feel of a keyboard.
Despite their differences, both the Crabapple and Duck benefit from the unique qualities of their respective housing materials. The POM housing of the Crabapple and the polycarbonate housing of the Duck each contribute to a distinct sound profile that enhances the typing experience for users. While the Crabapple offers a deeper and more muted sound, the Duck provides a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials depends on individual preferences for sound, aesthetics, and functionality in a keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch differ significantly. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. The Crabapple is lighter overall, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, while the Duck provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Crabapple being lighter and the Duck being heavier in terms of force required for typing.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Crabapple may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Duck may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer different travel distances, so users can expect different results depending on their choice.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Crabapple linear switch is known for its subdued sound profile, providing a dampened sound when pressed which may be preferable for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a clean and crispy sound. When it comes to feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Crabapple switch is described as frictionless with a mild and textured feel, while the Duck switch is characterized as buttery and polished, promising a smooth and refined typing sensation. Overall, if you enjoy a quieter typing experience, the Crabapple switch may be the better choice, while the Duck switch offers a more tactile and refined feel for those who prefer a bit more feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Crabapple switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a gentle tactile typing experience with a clean sound profile, the Duck switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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