Bsun Pine vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. On one hand, the BSUN Pine switch offers a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, perfect for those who enjoy direct and snappy tactility. This switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple switch provides a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. This switch is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing to different types of users. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the HC Studio Crabapple both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Pine features a polycarbonate top housing while the Crabapple uses a POM top housing. Polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience with RGB lighting. On the other hand, POM creates a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different audio profile for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Pine utilizes a nylon material while the Crabapple uses a POM material. Nylon in the bottom housing of the Pine creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple results in a deep and muted sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience with its unique sound characteristics.
While the Bsun Pine and HC Studio Crabapple have different top and bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Pine or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Crabapple, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch are different. The Pine has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Crabapple's 37 grams, making the Pine switch heavier in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Pine also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Crabapple's 45 grams, indicating that the Pine switch requires more force to press all the way down. This makes the Pine switch more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Crabapple switch, with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for typing for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience based on actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize fast response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance as it allows for quicker keystrokes. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the extra 0.2 mm of travel distance in the Crabapple switch to provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, allowing users to achieve similar results regardless of which one they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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.
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 BSUN Pine switch offers a more pronounced and direct auditory feedback with its sharp tactile bump, possibly resulting in a slightly louder typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple switch provides a subdued sound, creating a quieter and more understated typing atmosphere.
In terms of feel, the Pine switch is characterized by its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a snappy and distinct typing sensation. In contrast, the Crabapple switch is known for its frictionless and mild feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with a subtle texture felt during each keypress.
Overall, while the BSUN Pine switch caters to those who prefer a more accentuated and responsive typing experience with a clear tactile bump and fast action, the HC Studio Crabapple switch is designed for individuals who appreciate a smoother and quieter typing journey with a dampened sound and frictionless feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, selecting either of these switches will result in a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Pine switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a frictionless, effortlessly smooth typing journey with a lighter bottom out force and a mild, understated sound signature, the Crabapple switch could be more suited to your taste. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider your preferred tactile feedback and sound profile before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch comes down to your individual typing style and preference.
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