HC Studio Crabapple vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple stands out for its POM construction, providing a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture. Its sound profile is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) is known for its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth feel, and pillowy sensation. It offers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a creamy and buttery feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more muted and subtle typing experience. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both offer unique characteristics that impact the sound profile of the switches. The Crabapple utilizes POM housing for both the top and bottom, creating a pleasing and deep sound that is relatively muted. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) features polycarbonate housing for both the top and bottom, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with a clear housing for RGB lighting.
While the housing materials of the Crabapple and Silent Frozen (V2) differ in terms of POM and polycarbonate, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The POM housing of the Crabapple produces a deep and muted sound, creating a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) delivers a sharper and crisper sound, adding a sense of clarity and resonance to keystrokes. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches.
The top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in shaping the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. With the Crabapple using POM for both top and bottom housing, users can expect a consistent and unique sound profile that leans towards a deeper and more muted tone. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound that offers a different typing sensation. Whether a switch features POM or polycarbonate housing, the choice of material influences the tactile feedback and sound signature of the switch, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, with the Crabapple having a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Silent Frozen's 39 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Crabapple requires 45 grams while the Silent Frozen needs 43 grams. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with minimal force required for key presses, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. The slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces may not be noticeable to the average user, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Crabapple offers a slightly deeper key press experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen (V2), while those who enjoy a bit more depth to their key presses may opt for the Crabapple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired feel while typing or gaming.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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
When it comes to sound, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and understated sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, providing a deep and rich sound profile that is sure to please users who enjoy a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting between them would depend on whether you prefer a subtle or more pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild typing experience, with a subtle texture that adds a unique tactile feedback to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offers a creamy and buttery feel, with a feathery and subtle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and provides a smooth, effortless keystroke. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Crabapple offering a more textured feel compared to the silky sensation of the Silent Frozen (V2).
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple provides a subdued sound and frictionless feel, while the Silent Frozen (V2) offers a thocky sound and creamy, buttery feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, you can choose between these switches to achieve your desired outcome. Ultimately, both switches are crafted with quality materials and offer a smooth typing journey for users seeking a premium mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference based on sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a subtle and muted sound profile that offers a frictionless and textured typing experience, then the Crabapple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a switch with a thocky and creamy sound profile that provides a buttery and feathery typing sensation, then the Silent Frozen (V2) might be more up your alley. Consider your typing preferences and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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