Gateron Glory Red vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX Vintage Citrus stand out as intriguing options within the linear switch category, each catering to different user preferences. The Gateron Glory Red is characterized by its smooth keystroke and comfortable travel distance, providing an enjoyable typing experience that many users appreciate for both typing and casual gaming. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus is designed specifically for gamers, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm that facilitates rapid-fire keyboard inputs, making it an appealing choice for competitive play. Additionally, the Vintage Citrus offers a bright, clacky sound profile and a remarkably smooth push feel that can enhance the overall gaming experience. Both switches offer unique advantages; the former prioritizing a balanced typing experience while the latter emphasizes speed and auditory feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Red and HMX Vintage Citrus switches are both notable for their use of nylon as a housing material, which plays an essential role in the tactile and auditory experience of each switch. Both switches feature nylon in their top and bottom housings, which allows for the same acoustic properties and overall feel during use. The benefits of using nylon include the production of a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its relatively softer plastic composition. This results in the absorption of more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory characteristic that many typists appreciate.
In terms of the housing design, both the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches are built with consistent nylon materials that create similar results when typing. The sound profile produced by both switches will share fundamental qualities, stemming from the fact that the sound absorption properties of nylon dampen sharper sounds typically associated with harder plastics. This acoustic consistency means that users can expect a comparable auditory experience, regardless of which switch they choose, since both will elicit a satisfying typing experience with minimal high-pitched sounds.
However, it is important to note that, despite being made of the same material, perceptions of the switches may vary slightly in terms of actuation and bottom-out feel. The interaction between the top and bottom housings can delineate the typing experience based on how they complement each other. While both the Gateron Glory Red and HMX Vintage Citrus switches will soften the auditory impact, the specifics of how each switch feels during typing might still differ slightly due to design variations. Overall, though the materials are the same, the nuances in switch design might still cater to individual preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Glory Red switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Vintage Citrus requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams. Consequently, the Gateron Glory Red is the lighter option, making it an attractive choice for those who prefer less resistance during long typing sessions or gaming, as it can reduce fatigue. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus offers a bit more heft, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Regarding bottom out forces, the Gateron Glory Red does not have this information available, whereas the Vintage Citrus has a bottom out force of 53 grams, classified as medium-light. This means users of the Vintage Citrus will experience a more pronounced resistance when fully depressing the key, potentially enhancing the typing experience for those who prefer heavier switches. Overall, while both switches provide linear action, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces cater to distinct preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are distinct differences to note. The Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Vintage Citrus measures shorter at 3.0 mm. This means that for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Vintage Citrus would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which allows for faster actuation. Conversely, the Glory Red’s longer travel distance may be more suitable for users who appreciate a deeper and more tactile feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on an individual's preferences for responsiveness versus typing depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
The HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is not explicitly defined, but it can generally be expected to be quieter than tactile or clicky switches, enhancing a focused typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch features a bright, clacky sound profile, which lends itself well to both gaming and casual typing. This auditory characteristic adds a layer of feedback during use, which can be particularly appealing to users looking for an engaging sound experience. Keep in mind that both switches’ sound can be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps, making it essential to consider these factors to achieve the desired acoustic environment.
When it comes to the feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch is praised for its smooth keystroke and well-balanced travel distance, offering users an enjoyable typing experience that many find satisfying over prolonged use. This contrasts with the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, designed with gamers in mind, which boasts an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, contributing to a notably smooth push feel. While both switches emphasize a smooth action, the Vintage Citrus is engineered for rapid inputs, making it suitable for competitive gaming where speed and responsiveness are crucial.
In summary, while the Gateron Glory Red and HMX Vintage Citrus switches cater to slightly different user preferences, they both offer enjoyable feel qualities, although the Vintage Citrus may be more appealing for gamers seeking quick actuation. Their sound profiles vary significantly; the Glory Red leans towards a quieter experience while the Vintage Citrus provides a more vibrant auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by the primary use of your keyboard—if you prioritize a smooth and pleasant typing experience, the Glory Red may be the way to go, whereas if rapid-fire inputs are your focus, then the Vintage Citrus can deliver the tactile and sound stimulation you seek.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch should be guided by your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke and an overall enjoyable typing experience without overwhelming resistance, the Gateron Glory Red is a fantastic option, particularly if you engage in extended typing sessions or casual gaming where comfort is key. However, if you're a competitive gamer seeking speed and rapid key presses, the Vintage Citrus is designed specifically for you, with its low actuation force and quick 1mm activation making it perfect for fast-paced gaming scenarios. The bright, clacky sound profile of the Vintage Citrus also adds an element of excitement to your gaming experience. In summary, choose the Glory Red for a comfortable and satisfying feel during longer typing tasks, and opt for the Vintage Citrus when performance and speed are your top priorities.
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