TTC Gold Pink vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming needs, the TTC Gold Pink and HMX Vintage Citrus are two excellent linear options that cater to different preferences. With a mere 37g actuation force, the Gold Pink offers one of the lightest key presses available, perfect for those who relish a fast and effortless typing experience. The smooth and lively feedback, complemented by a satisfying clacky sound, makes it an appealing choice for both rapid typists and gamers. Conversely, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch takes quick response to another level with its 1mm actuation distance, optimized for gamers who require swift key inputs. It also boasts a bright clacky sound profile and remarkably smooth keystrokes, ensuring every hit is both quick and satisfying. While both switches excel in speed and tactile feedback, they cater to slightly different user experiences and 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
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Vintage Citrus, distinct differences arise in their construction. The Gold Pink employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for its stiffer nature, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic allows for clarity in audio feedback, making it especially beneficial for scenarios where RGB lighting is incorporated, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual aesthetics. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus features a nylon top housing, which is a classic choice typically associated with softer and more sound-absorbent properties. This material produces a deeper, fuller sound, offering a rounded auditory experience that contrasts starkly with the sharper tones of the Gold Pink's polycarbonate.
Both switches boast nylon bottom housings, which contribute similarly to the overall audio profile. The nylon composition in both the Gold Pink and Vintage Citrus enhances the deeper and rounder sound quality, creating a chime-like resonance to the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that while the tops of the switches differ significantly in sound characteristics—one being sharp and the other deep—both switches will share a harmonious bottom-out experience due to the shared use of nylon in that construction. This commonality means they will yield similar results when it comes to how they feel during key presses, providing a consistent tactile experience.
Ultimately, the differences between the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Vintage Citrus illustrate how the various housing materials impact the switches’ audio profiles. The unique combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom in the Gold Pink delivers a bright sound on release coupled with a satisfying bottom-out resonance. In contrast, the vintage aesthetic of the HMX, featuring dual nylon housings, appeals to those seeking a classic, fuller auditory feedback. While each switch offers distinct sound profiles, the similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a level of acoustic consistency when it comes to the key press feedback. Thus, potential users can choose based on their preferred auditory nuances while still enjoying a comparable base tactile experience across both options.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying preferences. The Gold Pink switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch, with a medium-light actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, provides a slightly heavier push that offers a more substantial typing experience. As such, the Gold Pink switch is ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, while the Vintage Citrus is better suited for those who enjoy a firmer, more resilient action. Overall, these differences highlight the diverse preferences in switch weight, allowing users to choose based on their specific typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Gold Pink features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for a deeper actuation, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. While a shallower travel distance can enhance responsiveness, some users may find it too abrupt for their liking. Ultimately, if a user values a hearty depth in key presses, the Gold Pink would be the suitable choice, whereas the Vintage Citrus caters to those seeking faster actuation with its shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 TTC Gold Pink linear switch features a distinctly clacky sound profile, which is reminiscent of the lively experience that many gamers and typists appreciate. This characteristic sound adds a level of excitement to typing and can make even mundane tasks feel more engaging. Conversely, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is also noted for its bright and clacky sound, emphasizing its design as a speed switch tailored for gamers. While both switches are similar in their clackiness, the specific acoustics may vary depending on the keyboard build and keycap choice, but the lively sound signature is a common thread between the two.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink linear switch provides a unique combination of buttery smoothness, mild resistance, and a feathery touch, making it exceptionally comfortable for both prolonged use and fast-paced gaming sessions. Users can expect a seamless typing experience where each keystroke feels effortless. Meanwhile, the Vintage Citrus switch, designed for rapid-fire gaming inputs, offers a remarkably smooth push feel that complements its incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm. While the Gold Pink caters well to a variety of uses, the Vintage Citrus is more specifically aimed at gamers who prioritize quick response times.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Pink and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches offer appealing auditory and tactile experiences, with the Gold Pink delivering a buttery, mild, and feathery feel, while the Vintage Citrus emphasizes speed and smoothness. Both switches boast a lively clacky sound that can enhance typing and gaming, making them suitable for users looking for that engaging feedback during their interactions. Regardless of your choice, you're likely to enjoy a responsive and enjoyable experience conducive to both typing and gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are someone who values a lightweight and effortless typing experience, particularly for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink is an excellent choice. With its notably low actuation force and buttery feel, it allows for speedy keystrokes with minimal fatigue, making it suitable for those marathon typing sessions. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile with a feathery typing sensation, the Gold Pink enhances your experience without overwhelming your surroundings. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking an edge with lightning-fast inputs, the HMX Vintage Citrus might suit you better. Its low actuation force of just 1mm provides exceptional responsiveness, which is crucial for quick reflexes in games. The Vintage Citrus delivers a smooth push feel alongside its bright, clacky sound, creating an engaging experience well-suited for high-intensity gaming. Thus, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a light, lively experience (TTC Gold Pink) or a responsive, gamer-focused switch with robust auditory feedback (HMX Vintage Citrus).
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