HC Studio Crabapple vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Wuque Studio WS Jade 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 Jade offer distinct typing experiences. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, boasts a frictionless journey with a dry smoothness that provides a unique textured feel with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it a great choice for those looking for a subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade showcases a bright metallic sound profile thanks to a metallic insert in its stem base, paired with a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. This switch offers a creamy and smooth typing experience with a rock-solid bottom-out, making it stand out for those seeking a clacky and resonant feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
UPE
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
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Wuque Studio WS Jade are both made of POM, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This material choice results in a refined and satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a softer sound with deeper tones. However, while both switches share the same housing material, the design and construction of the switches may differ, leading to variations in how the sound and feel are experienced.
In terms of the top housing, both the Crabapple and the WS Jade utilize POM material to create a similar sound profile. The deep and muted sound produced by the POM top housing contributes to a quieter typing experience compared to other materials, making these switches ideal for office or shared environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The consistency in material choice ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the POM material in both the Crabapple and the WS Jade also plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch is crucial for users who prioritize tactile feedback and responsiveness. By incorporating POM material in the bottom housing, both switches are able to provide a satisfying tactile response while maintaining a quieter sound profile overall. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in both the Crabapple and the WS Jade demonstrates a commitment to creating switches that deliver a superior typing experience with a focus on sound and feel.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Those who enjoy a stronger push when typing would likely prefer the WS Jade switch. While the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, individuals seeking a similar typing feel can achieve comparable results depending on their preference for lighter or heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the Crabapple and WS Jade switches will depend on the user's preferred typing experience and desired level of force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, which is the same as the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch. Both switches offer a consistent keypress experience with a minimal travel distance, allowing for quick and efficient typing or gaming. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feel and performance.Overall, the travel distance of both switches is relatively short compared to other switches on the market, making them ideal choices for those looking for a fast and responsive typing or gaming experience.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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 switch offers a subdued sound, providing a dampened and more subtle auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the WS Jade switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound profile, producing a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. The use of a metallic insert in the WS Jade adds a bright and metallic element to the sound, creating a unique audio experience. Depending on personal preference, users may choose between the softer sound of the Crabapple or the livelier sound of the WS Jade.
Moving on to the feel, the Crabapple switch is best known for its frictionless and textured feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. In contrast, the WS Jade switch provides a silky and creamy feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The rock-solid bottom-out of the WS Jade adds a unique tactile sensation to the typing experience. Whether one prefers the frictionless feel of the Crabapple or the silky feel of the WS Jade depends on personal typing preferences.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple provides a subdued sound and a frictionless typing journey, while the WS Jade offers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can expect to achieve different but equally satisfying results with these two high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you value a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Crabapple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a silky and creamy typing feel paired with a bright and resonant sound, the WS Jade could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing comfort and auditory feedback. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience with the switch that best suits your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
