HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Semi Mute mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple, a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, boasts a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture in each keystroke. Its mild and understated sound signature sets it apart as a smooth and textured option. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute, also a linear switch, is designed for those who prioritize a noise-free environment with its completely silent operation. Featuring advanced dampening technology, it provides a buttery and gratifying typing feel for users. While the Crabapple emphasizes texture and smoothness, the Semi Mute focuses on quiet operation and comfort. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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
15mm spring
Housing materials
The HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Semi Mute both offer a unique sound profile based on their housing materials. The Crabapple utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound overall. In contrast, the Semi Mute features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While the Crabapple's POM housing provides a pleasing tone, the polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute offers a more distinct and clear sound quality.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the two switches also differ in their appearance. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual experience of the keyboard. On the other hand, the opaque POM housing of the Crabapple may not offer the same transparency for lighting effects but still provides a sleek and professional look. Whether you prefer a more understated design with the Crabapple or a more vibrant and colorful aesthetic with the Semi Mute, both switches offer options to suit different preferences.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Semi Mute are designed to enhance the overall typing or gaming experience. While the POM housing of the Crabapple creates a unique and pleasing sound, the polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute offers a sharper and crisper tone. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel. Whether you prioritize a deeper, muted sound with the Crabapple or a sharper, more resonant sound with the Semi Mute, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch reveals some differences in their weight. The Crabapple has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Semi Mute has a heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Those seeking a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Crabapple for longer typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, the Semi Mute provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired force levels.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Crabapple to feel abrupt, while the longer travel distance of the Semi Mute may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 offers a subdued and mild sound signature, providing a dampened and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as having a muted and neutral sound profile, designed to minimize noise and create a quieter typing environment. Both switches aim to reduce the typical clacky sound associated with mechanical keyboards, with the Crabapple leaning towards a more subtle approach while the Semi Mute focuses on complete silence.
When it comes to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey with a subtle texture felt during each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as providing a buttery and mild typing feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is comfortable and gratifying. Both switches aim to offer a gentle and approachable typing sensation, with the Crabapple emphasizing a frictionless experience while the Semi Mute focuses on a buttery smoothness.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch both excel in providing a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, albeit with subtle differences in sound and feel. The Crabapple offers a subdued sound and frictionless typing feel, while the Semi Mute provides a muted sound and buttery smooth keystrokes. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches are designed to meet the needs of users seeking a high-quality, linear switch for their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a more understated sound profile like the Crabapple or complete silence like the Semi Mute, along with a preference for either a frictionless or buttery smooth typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, a frictionless and mild typing experience, and a subdued sound signature, the Crabapple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force, a buttery and mild typing experience, and a muted sound profile, the Semi Mute could be the switch that suits your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard.
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