HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple to the Gateron Ink Black V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique benefits to the user. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, providing a frictionless typing experience 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 subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a low-pitched, bassy sound with a mild and polished feel. While the Crabapple excels in providing a frictionless and textured typing journey, the Ink Black V2 stands out for its smooth downstroke and rich sound profile. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both offer unique sound profiles, but with differing characteristics. The Crabapple's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more subdued noise level. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings produce a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, offering a different auditory experience for users.
While both switches have distinct sound profiles, the way in which the housing materials impact the overall typing experience differs between the Crabapple and the Ink Black V2. With the Crabapple, the bottom housing has more influence over the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to its deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing of the Ink Black V2 plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key, creating a satisfyingly clacky sound that many enthusiasts enjoy.
Despite their differences in sound profile, the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Ink Black V2 ultimately serve to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways. Both switches offer a pleasing and satisfying sound, with the Crabapple catering to those who prefer a deeper and more muted tone, while the Ink Black V2 appeals to users who enjoy a pointed and higher-pitched clackiness. In this sense, users can expect a similar level of quality and enjoyment from both switches, albeit with distinct auditory characteristics.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch differ significantly. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those looking for a light typing experience. In comparison, the Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. For users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Crabapple would be the better choice. Conversely, those who prefer a stronger push for a more tactile typing experience may opt for the Ink Black V2. In this case, weight does play a significant role in determining the typing feel and user preference.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance, suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences among keyboard users.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 is known for its subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy sound with a unique chirpy element to it. The sound of each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple is lauded for its frictionless typing experience, offering effortless key presses with a smooth and fluid travel. It also boasts a mild and textured feel, adding a subtle tactile sensation with each keystroke. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and a sleek key travel.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Crabapple excels in providing a smooth and frictionless typing journey with a subdued sound, the Ink Black V2 stands out with its low-pitched, bassy sound and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users can achieve similar results based on their specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter key press with a frictionless typing experience and a mild, understated sound, the Crabapple switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy key press with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Happy typing!
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