HC Studio Crabapple vs. Outemu Milk Peach
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Milk Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Milk Peach mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see the stark differences in their design and features. The Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, offers users a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that is complemented by a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Peach switch offers a unique and relatively unknown typing experience, with no specific standout features mentioned. While the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and textured feel, the Milk Peach switch remains a mystery in terms of its characteristics. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Milk Peach switches, one key difference lies in their top housings. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Peach utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Milk Peach is also particularly beneficial for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the POM top housing of the Crabapple provides a softer and more subdued auditory experience compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Peach.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is their bottom housings. The Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Milk Peach features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is described as a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The difference in bottom housing materials between the Crabapple and the Milk Peach may affect the overall typing experience, with the softer nylon bottom housing of the Milk Peach potentially offering a more tactile and satisfying feel compared to the deeper but muted sound produced by the POM bottom housing of the Crabapple.
Overall, the choice between the HC Studio Crabapple and the Outemu Milk Peach switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile experience. While both switches offer unique characteristics in their top and bottom housing materials, the Crabapple's POM housings create a more subdued sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the Milk Peach's polycarbonate and nylon housings. Ultimately, the housing materials of each switch play a significant role in determining the overall typing sound and feel, making it important for users to consider their preferences in sound and tactile feedback when selecting between the two.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, which requires 45 grams to actuate. Both switches have a similar bottom out force of 45 grams. The Crabapple switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Milk Peach switch provides a slightly heavier actuation force, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Milk Peach. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and feedback, you may lean towards the Crabapple due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Milk Peach comes in at $3.10 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
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Crabapple switch is praised for its frictionless and mild typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless journey with a subtle texture felt on each keystroke. In contrast, the feel of the Milk Peach switch is not specified.
Considering the information provided, for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience with a smooth and effortless feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch may be the preferred choice. However, if the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch align with one's preferences, it could also be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a light bottom out force and a frictionless, dry smoothness in your switches, then the Crabapple would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if bottom out force and specific sound and feel characteristics are not a priority for you, then the Milk Peach might be a good option. Consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision between these two switches.
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