HC Studio Crabapple vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer unique typing experiences. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM material, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing journey. Its distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture with each downstroke create a mild and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile, a tactile switch, offers a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump and immersive resistance. The nylon housings give it a captivating "thocky" sound, making typing engaging and satisfying. Choosing the Crabapple switch would be ideal for those looking for a frictionless and textured typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch is perfect for those seeking a tactile and invigorating typing sensation. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both offer unique sound profiles, with the Crabapple utilizing POM for both the top and bottom housings, while the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes nylon for both. POM is described as creating a deeper and relatively muted sound, while nylon elicits a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Despite both switches having different housing materials, they both aim to provide a pleasing and unique sound experience for users.
However, the difference in housing materials between the Crabapple and the WS Heavy Tactile may result in varying tactile feedback and typing experiences. The POM bottom housing of the Crabapple is likely to have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the WS Heavy Tactile may contribute to a different typing experience. Additionally, the top housing of both switches, whether POM or nylon, plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key, offering a consistent sound profile throughout typing.
Overall, the choice between POM and nylon housing materials for switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While the Crabapple and the WS Heavy Tactile may differ in their housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of POM or the fuller and rounder sound of nylon, both switches offer quality options for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have different weight specifications. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a more pronounced and tactile typing sensation. Those who prefer a lightweight typing experience may lean towards the Crabapple switch, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the WS Heavy Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer than the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch. The Crabapple's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch's shorter travel distance might be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer unique benefits, with the Crabapple providing a longer travel distance for a more tactile feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a shorter distance for faster inputs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound profile that is gentle on the ears, providing a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch produces a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound that is sharp and crisp, offering a more prominent auditory feedback during typing sessions. The Crabapple switch leans towards a more understated sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a more engaging and lively typing sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless travel with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with a bouncy and snappy feel, creating a more responsive and dynamic typing sensation. The Crabapple switch focuses on a gentle and approachable feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more pronounced and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple switch provides a quieter and smoother typing experience with a mild sound profile and frictionless feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a more engaging and tactile feedback with a clacky and resonant sound and an invigorating and sharp feel. Depending on personal preferences for typing sound and feel, users can choose between the understated elegance of the Crabapple switch or the dynamic feedback of the WS Heavy Tactile switch to elevate their typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light, frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Crabapple may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile experience with a more pronounced tactile bump and a captivating "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch might be more to your liking. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound when making your decision. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
