HC Studio Crabapple vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing journey 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 Yanyu, also a linear switch, is perfect for those looking for a more delicate typing experience or typing for long periods of time. With a material blend that gives it a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu offers a neutral and polished typing experience. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The HC Studio Crabapple and SP-Star Yanyu both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and relatively muted sound. In contrast, the Yanyu combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for a blend that offers a pleasant and slightly brighter sound. While both switches aim to create pleasing sound profiles, the Crabapple leans towards a deeper tone, while the Yanyu is slightly brighter.
In terms of sound characteristics, the top and bottom housings play a significant role in determining the overall feel of a switch. With the Crabapple, the POM material used in both housings creates a unique sound that is deeper and more muted. This is similar to the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, which offers a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile. However, the specific qualities of each material will differ, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and SP-Star Yanyu ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Crabapple offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing, the Yanyu provides a slightly brighter tone with its Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend. Both switches aim to create pleasing and unique sound profiles, but the specific characteristics of each housing material will result in subtle differences in the overall typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction in terms of sound quality from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we can see that the Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Yanyu's unknown actuation force. Both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Crabapple at 45 grams and the Yanyu at 43 grams. This means that both switches would provide a relatively light typing experience, which may be preferable for those looking for a smooth and easy typing feel. However, those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience may lean towards the Crabapple due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a lighter typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming sessions where quick and precise keystrokes are essential.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, the Yanyu switch has a longer distance to travel compared to the Crabapple switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for gaming due to their faster response times. Gamers who prioritize quick reactions may prefer the Crabapple switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the Yanyu switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for key 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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu 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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is described as having a subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile with a hint of thocky richness, providing a satisfying and moderate sound when pressed. While the Crabapple leans towards a quieter and smoother typing sound, the Yanyu offers a more pronounced and satisfying auditory feedback, catering to different preferences in sound.
In terms of feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch boasts a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle texture felt with each key press. This offers a smooth and effortless typing journey with minimal resistance, appealing to those looking for a comfortable and approachable feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a mild and feathery typing experience, with a gentle resistance that is still light to press. The polished finish of the Yanyu adds to the smooth and refined feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience with understated sound and frictionless feel, ideal for those seeking a more subtle tactile feedback. In comparison, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a more pronounced and satisfying sound profile along with a gentle and polished typing feel, catering to users looking for a balance between a light actuation force and a rich auditory experience. Depending on individual preferences in sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Crabapple switch crafted from POM material would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile and a variety of light typing feel options, the Yanyu switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a unique dry smoothness with a mild sound (Crabapple) or a more versatile typing experience with various gentle actuation force options (Yanyu). Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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