HC Studio Crabapple vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique typing experiences. The Crabapple, a linear switch, is crafted entirely from POM, providing a frictionless and dry smoothness with a subtle texture felt on each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel, also a linear switch, manufactured by BSUN, delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced. While the Crabapple is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured', the Yoel is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. These general pointers can help you decide which switch might be best for your typing preferences; 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
53g
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
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and PH Studio Yoel switches both offer unique sound profiles based on their construction. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and relatively muted sound, while the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Crabapple offering a more subdued typing sound compared to the crisper sound of the Yoel.
Both the Crabapple and Yoel switches utilize POM material for their bottom housing, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by deep tones and muted sounds. This commonality in bottom housing material ensures that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. However, the difference in their top housing materials, with the Crabapple using POM and the Yoel using polycarbonate, leads to distinct variations in sound production. The Yoel's polycarbonate top housing enhances key release sound with its stiffer construction, while the Crabapple's POM top housing delivers a more subtle sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and PH Studio Yoel switches comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. The Crabapple offers a softer, more muted typing experience with its POM housing, while the Yoel provides a crisper and sharper sound profile with its polycarbonate construction. Users looking for a deep and subdued typing sound may prefer the Crabapple, while those who enjoy a sharper and higher-pitched sound may lean towards the Yoel. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch differ in weight, with the Crabapple being lighter and the Yoel being heavier. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance. Those who prefer a light touch may opt for the Crabapple, as it allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, individuals seeking a more solid typing experience may gravitate towards the Yoel with its heavier forces. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference, ensuring that users can find a suitable option for their typing needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple has a longer travel distance of 3.6mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the current market. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Yoel a good choice for those seeking faster feedback. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial keypress may find the Crabapple with its slightly longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in keypress feel.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound profile, providing a dampened and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch excels in producing a bright, clacky, and resonant sound that is satisfyingly pronounced. If you prefer a quieter and more subtle typing sound, the Crabapple is the way to go, whereas the Yoel is perfect for those who enjoy a more vibrant and pronounced typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey with a subtle texture felt with each press. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch delivers a creamy and polished typing feel, enveloping fingertips with a buttery smoothness and refined finish. If you prefer a tactile experience with minimal friction, the Crabapple is a great choice, while the Yoel provides a silky and luxurious typing sensation.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer distinct and unique qualities in both sound and feel. While the Crabapple provides a subdued and frictionless typing experience with a mild sound profile, the Yoel excels in delivering a bright and clacky sound with a creamy and polished feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, but rest assured, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that will elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more subtle typing experience, then the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Crabapple offers a frictionless, dry smoothness that is accompanied by a mild and understated sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch and a more pronounced typing experience, then the PH Studio Yoel linear switch would be more suitable for you. The Yoel provides a chewy typing sensation with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates upon bottoming out. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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