HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Kang White are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple is crafted entirely from POM, providing an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White stands out for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. It produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more vibrant typing feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Kang White both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Crabapple results in a more subdued typing experience, while the polycarbonate in the Kang White lends itself to a livelier sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Crabapple also utilizes POM, resulting in a deep and pleasing sound profile. Conversely, the KTT Kang White features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a fuller and rounder sound. This contrast highlights the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience. While POM may offer a more muted sound, nylon can provide a deeper and more resonant typing feel. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material in mechanical switches can greatly influence the typing experience. The Crabapple and Kang White showcase how POM, polycarbonate, and nylon each bring unique qualities to the sound profile and feel of a switch. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound like the Crabapple or a sharper and crisper sound like the Kang White, both switches offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is the lighter option. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium category in terms of force required. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel or a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kang White due to its heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Kang White has a longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. The difference may seem small, but it can affect the overall feel and experience of typing or gaming. The Crabapple's shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers, while the Kang White's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued typing experience with a dampened sound when pressed, providing a subtle and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the Kang White linear switch boasts a low-pitched, mellow tone that is bass-heavy, creating a dazzling typing sound. Overall, the Crabapple switch leans towards a quieter and more reserved sound profile, while the Kang White switch delivers a more pronounced and vibrant auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple linear switch excels in providing a frictionless typing journey, offering an effortless and smooth keystroke that minimizes any sense of resistance. Additionally, it presents a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, along with a subtle texture felt with each downstroke. On the contrary, information on the feel of the Kang White linear switch is unavailable. With this in mind, if the Kang White switch is similar in design to the Crabapple, users can expect a smooth and effortless typing experience with a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Crabapple linear switch and the Kang White linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple offers a subdued sound profile with a frictionless and mild typing experience, while the Kang White showcases a low-pitched, dazzling typing sound. If the Kang White switch mirrors the design of the Crabapple, users can anticipate a smooth and effortless typing experience with a gentle feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light and frictionless typing journey with a subtle sound profile, opt for the Crabapple. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White is the way to go. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what appeals to you the most in terms of sound and feel. Happy typing!
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