HC Studio Crabapple vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Wuque Studio WS Silent 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 Silent Tactile offer distinct experiences for users. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its mild and understated sound signature sets it apart as a unique option for those seeking a quiet but tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile from Wuque Studio is ideal for office environments, offering superior noise reduction and medium tactility without the use of silicone dampeners. This innovative design sets a new standard in silent switches, providing a quiet yet crisply tactile typing experience. Each switch is categorized by different qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile both offer unique sound profiles, with the Crabapple utilizing POM for both the top and bottom housings, while the WS Silent Tactile uses nylon. POM is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a pleasing typing experience. In contrast, nylon offers a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Both materials bring their own characteristics to the switches, resulting in distinct typing experiences.
While the Crabapple and the WS Silent Tactile utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the characteristics of both POM and nylon contributing to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches.
Overall, both the Crabapple and the WS Silent Tactile offer unique housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. Whether it's the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Crabapple or the fuller and rounder sound of nylon in the WS Silent Tactile, each material provides a distinct typing experience. While the specific qualities of each housing material may vary, both switches aim to enhance the overall tactile and auditory feedback for users, resulting in a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch will feel easier to press and type on, making it ideal for those looking for a light and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch will provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring a bit more force to press down fully. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Crabapple being lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a stronger push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Overall, users looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Crabapple, while those seeking a heavier switch would be better off with the WS Silent Tactile.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is slightly longer at 3.6 mm compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, which is ideal for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster gameplay. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prefer a slightly shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 is known for its subdued sound, offering a quiet yet noticeable typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile with muted qualities, making it ideal for office environments or situations where noise reduction is key. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches, with the Crabapple being slightly more subdued in its sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple linear switch is characterized by its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey with a subtle texture felt with each downstroke. On the contrary, the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch provides an accented and invigorating feel, offering medium tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Crabapple leaning towards a smoother feel and the WS Silent Tactile providing a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Considering both switches, the Crabapple linear switch offers a smoother and quieter typing experience with a mild feel, making it suitable for those seeking a gentler switch option. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch provides a unique blend of silent operation with medium tactile feedback, making it ideal for office environments or individuals who prefer a more pronounced feedback while maintaining a quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both offer high-quality performance in their respective categories. Whether you choose the Crabapple or the WS Silent Tactile, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom out force, a frictionless and dry smooth typing experience with a mild and understated sound, the Crabapple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a silent yet crisp typing experience with superior noise reduction and medium tactility, the WS Silent Tactile switch would be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and typing environment. Experiment with both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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