HMX Hibiscus vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy options from HMX are the Hibiscus and the Vintage Citrus, both linear switches designed to cater to different preferences. The HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and a unique sound signature that offers a satisfying, clacky, poppy, and crispy feel. Its ultra-light actuation force makes it a pleasure to use, particularly for those who prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is crafted with gamers in mind, featuring an extremely low actuation force within just 1mm, which allows for lightning-fast inputs essential in high-paced gaming scenarios. Additionally, this switch delivers a bright, clacky sound and a notably smooth push that appeals to those seeking rapid responsiveness. Both switches provide enticing qualities, whether you’re looking for a relaxed typing experience or an edge in gaming performance. 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
42g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
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 HMX Hibiscus and HMX Vintage Citrus both feature nylon as their primary material for both top and bottom housings, which establishes a strong foundation for comparing their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. Nylon is known for its softer, more absorbent qualities compared to harder plastics, and as a result, both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared material choice ensures that users can expect a similar auditory experience while typing, characterized by a duller and rounder tone. The uniformity in housing material is particularly significant as it fosters consistent tactile feedback, further unifying the feel of both switches during usage.
While the housing materials are identical in both models, the potential for unique sound profiles could arise from other design aspects such as switch internals or spring mechanisms. The impact of housing materials on sound is well documented; in both switches, the nylon absorbs vibrations effectively, which can contribute to a muted sound when keys are pressed. However, if there are variations in components like the stem or spring, the sound signature could still diverge despite the housing material being the same. This highlights the importance of cross-categorizing the types of hardware used within the switch mechanisms when comparing the Hibiscus and Vintage Citrus models.
Ultimately, because both the HMX Hibiscus and HMX Vintage Citrus utilize nylon consistently for their top and bottom housings, users can reasonably expect comparable results in terms of the overall sound profile and tactile feel. The typing experience across these two options will likely exhibit similar characteristics, particularly in how the key press is perceived when the keys bottom out or return to their relaxed state. Therefore, even though the two models may represent different aesthetic themes or marketing strategies, the similarity in materials equips them both with a classic sound experience admired by keyboard enthusiasts looking for depth in their typing acoustics.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches both exhibit differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences for keyboard feel. The Hibiscus switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter overall—a favorable choice for those who type for extended periods, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This means that users seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Vintage Citrus due to its heavier force requirements. Overall, the Hibiscus switch would be ideal for light, effortless typing, while the Vintage Citrus provides more resistance for a firmer keypress feel.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch differ, with the Hibiscus having a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Vintage Citrus measures at 3 mm. This means that the Hibiscus offers a slightly deeper feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience, while the Vintage Citrus, with its shorter travel distance, aligns more with the modern trend favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Thus, for those who value depth in their keystrokes, the Hibiscus would be the better choice, whereas users looking for faster actuation might opt for the Vintage Citrus. Overall, the Hibiscus is the longer of the two, providing a more robust typing experience compared to the more responsive but shallower Vintage Citrus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus switch has a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that enhances the auditory experience during use. This makes it not only enjoyable for typing but also appealing for those who appreciate a more dynamic acoustic feedback from their keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch also features a bright, clacky sound profile, which aligns well with its design catered to gamers seeking quick responsiveness. Both switches offer a vibrant sound for users, though their specific nuances may vary based on individual setups, including the keyboard they are mounted on and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness, providing a pristine typing experience that many enthusiasts covet. It boasts an ultra-light actuation force that makes keystrokes effortless and fluid, making it particularly appealing for long typing sessions or intensive tasks. Conversely, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch also features a remarkably smooth push feel but is tailored more for rapid-fire keyboard inputs, with an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm designed to accommodate fast-paced gaming. While both switches offer a level of smoothness and light actuation, the Hibiscus emphasizes a more leisurely typing experience, whereas the Vintage Citrus prioritizes speedy, responsive action ideal for gamers.
Overall, both the HMX Hibiscus and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches offer distinct advantages depending on user preferences. The Hibiscus excels in providing a smooth and pleasant typing experience with appealing sound qualities, making it a favorite among typists and casual users alike. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus is engineered for gamers who need quick response times, featuring a light actuation force and a bright, clacky sound. Ultimately, while they share some similarities, each switch has unique characteristics that cater to different user needs, ensuring a satisfying experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and use cases. If you value a lightweight and exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Hibiscus is a fantastic choice with its 48 grams of bottom-out force. You can enjoy a clacky, poppy sound signature that adds to the typing experience, making it ideal for general typing tasks or leisurely gaming where a tactile feedback is appreciated. On the other hand, if you're primarily a gamer seeking rapid response and quick key actuation, the Vintage Citrus would suit you better. With a slightly firmer 53 grams bottom-out force and an actuation distance of just 1mm, it is designed for those quick, precise inputs during gaming sessions. Its bright, clacky sound profile complements the swifter feel, ensuring you stay engaged in high-paced gameplay. Thus, consider your typing style and whether you prioritize smoothness or speed, as this will guide you in choosing the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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