HC Studio Crabapple vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Honey mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey offers a smooth and creamy typing feel with a deep and pleasant sound profile. The switch is described as 'subdued', 'creamy', 'buttery', and 'polished', catering to users who enjoy a more tactile and buttery typing sensation. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Honey, it is evident that both switches utilize distinct materials to create different sound profiles. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings produce a deeper, more muted sound profile, while the Honey's polycarbonate housings result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches featuring RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. Despite these differences, both housing materials are known for creating pleasing and unique sound profiles, showcasing the versatility of various plastics in switch design.
While the Crabapple's POM housings create a consistent sound profile on both the top and bottom of the switch, the Honey's utilization of polycarbonate sets it apart in terms of sound characteristics. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the muted sound profile of POM. Additionally, the impact of the housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced in switches with different top and bottom housings, as each material brings distinct qualities to the overall sound experience. These contrasting effects highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the tactile and auditory feedback of mechanical switches.
In conclusion, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials in switches such as the Crabapple and Honey ultimately depends on personal preference and desired sound profile. While POM offers a deeper, more muted sound experience, polycarbonate provides a sharper, crisper sound with added visual appeal. Both materials have their own unique qualities that impact the overall sound profile of a switch, demonstrating the complexity and creativity involved in mechanical keyboard design. Whether opting for the tried-and-true POM or the cutting-edge polycarbonate, users can expect a satisfying and unique typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall on the lighter side in terms of force. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Honey has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are relatively light compared to others in the market. This makes them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience and those who want to minimize fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. However, for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may find that these switches do not provide the desired level of resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances commonly preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Honey switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth and feedback to some users compared to the Crabapple switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or slightly 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 TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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, both the HC Studio Crabapple and TTC Honey switches are described as producing a subdued sound when pressed. This means that while they are not completely silent, they offer a more subtle and dampened sound signature compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard you use and the keycaps attached.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple is praised for its frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless journey with minimal resistance. The switch also offers a mild and approachable typing feel, with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Honey switch is described as creamy and buttery, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. It also boasts a frictionless and subtle feel, providing a gentle resistance and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle textured feel and a subdued sound signature, the TTC Honey switch stands out for its creamy and buttery typing feel with a polished and subtle resistance, resulting in a smooth and uniform typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing preferences and desired sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a typing experience characterized by effortless frictionless movement with a subtle texture, then the Crabapple switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a creamy and smooth typing feel with a deep sound profile, then the Honey switch would better suit your preferences. Both switches offer a subdued sound signature, but the Crabapple provides a mild and textured feel, while the Honey offers a creamy and buttery sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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