HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Lime. The crabapple is a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, offering a frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture. On the other hand, the Lime is a tactile switch known for its lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and silence. It is perfect for tactile fans who enjoy a feathery light typing experience. While the Crabapple is categorized as 'frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured', the Lime is classified as 'neutral, mild, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished'. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different 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
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Lime feature top housings made of different materials, with the Crabapple utilizing POM and the Lime using nylon. While both materials create a deeper and fuller sound profile, POM is known for its unique sound that leans towards the muted side, while nylon is praised for its ability to absorb more sound and produce a duller, rounder sound. This means that typing on switches with either housing material will result in a satisfying typing experience, with slight variations in the sound produced.
Moving on to the bottom housings of the Crabapple and Lime switches, both feature POM and nylon materials, respectively. Similar to the top housings, POM and nylon create a deep and pleasing sound profile. The POM bottom housing of the Crabapple continues the trend of producing a relatively muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lime absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller sound profile. This difference in sound characteristics may be more noticeable when typing on these switches, particularly during bottom-out moments when the bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch.
In instances where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, such as in the Crabapple and Lime switches, each housing material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing the key. Therefore, when comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Lime, it is evident that both switches offer a similar typing experience with variations in sound profiles based on the materials used in their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is clear that both switches are relatively light. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches require a light touch to actuate the keystroke and provide a comfortable typing experience. The slight difference in actuation force between the two switches is negligible and users can expect similar results when typing on either switch. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lime switch, while those who prefer a slightly firmer push may opt for the Crabapple switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lime. A shorter travel distance can be favored by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience. Despite the difference in distance, both switches offer a similar tactile experience and can provide satisfactory results depending on the user's needs.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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 sound that is dampened and subtle, providing a mild and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is muted and softer compared to regular switches, making it suitable for various environments. Depending on the board and keycaps used, both switches can provide similar results in terms of sound, with the Crabapple offering a quieter and more subdued typing experience compared to the Lime.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple linear switch provides a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness that minimizes resistance, offering a fluid travel with a subtle texture felt with each downstroke. In contrast, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions with its light actuation force and gentle resistance. Both switches offer a mild and approachable typing feel, with the Crabapple focusing on frictionless smoothness and the Lime offering a polished and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple excels in providing a quiet and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound profile, while the Lime offers a softer and muted sound with a feathery light feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Crabapple focusing on smoothness and subtlety, and the Lime offering a light and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a mild and understated sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch crafted from POM is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility and a muted sound profile, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be an excellent choice. Consider your preferences for typing feel and sound when deciding between these two switches to find the one that best suits your needs. Ultimately, the choice between the Crabapple and Lime switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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