HMX KD200 vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and the HMX Vintage Citrus stand out for different reasons, despite both being classified as linear switches. The KD200 is renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, attracting typists and gamers who appreciate a distinctive auditory feedback while typing. Its unique sound profile adds character to the typing experience, making it a fun choice for those who enjoy the clatter of their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch is specifically designed for gamers, featuring an impressively low actuation force at just 1mm, making it perfect for rapid-fire inputs—ideal for intense gaming sessions. Along with its bright, clacky sound and remarkably smooth pressing feel, this switch prioritizes speed and responsiveness. While the KD200 may appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience with enhanced auditory feedback, the Vintage Citrus is tailored for those who require quick and efficient keystrokes in competitive gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX KD200 and the HMX Vintage Citrus share a commonality in their housing construction, as they both feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This use of nylon, a classic material in switch design, lends both switches a distinctive acoustic profile characterized by a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The choice of nylon, known for its softer texture, contributes to sound absorption—resulting in a rounder and duller auditory experience compared to harder plastics. As a result, users of either model can expect a similar tactile and auditory feedback when engaging with the switches, enhancing their typing experience with a unified sound profile.
While the K200 and Vintage Citrus provide similar tactile responses due to their matching nylon construction, there may still be subtle differences in terms of performance. Each switch's design leads to varied experiences based on the nature of other internal components or the overall assembly of the switches. However, the nylon materials guarantee that both models will exhibit those desirable qualities—such as a muted sound when keys are pressed and released. This inherent softness of nylon balances well with the switch mechanics, ensuring that the overall feel of both switches remains engaging and pleasant, regardless of these minor inconsistencies.
In conclusion, while the HMX KD200 and the HMX Vintage Citrus utilize the same nylon material for both the top and bottom housings, leading to a similar auditory experience, any variations in their respective mechanisms might create a nuanced difference in user experience. Ultimately, the shared characteristics of nylon in both switches will provide users with a consistent typing experience, where both switches produce a sound that is deeper and more fulfilling. Consequently, users can expect to achieve similar results from both the KD200 and Vintage Citrus, emphasizing the effectiveness of nylon as a preferred material in switch design for enhancing overall performance and sound quality.
Weight
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch exhibit differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, which may influence a user's typing experience. The KD200 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer effortless keystrokes and longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a more substantial feel for users who favor a firmer push when typing. While both switches provide a smooth linear feel, the KD200 is the lighter option, appealing to users looking for comfort during extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference, with the KD200 being ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and the Vintage Citrus catering to those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it is clear that the KD200 offers a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. The KD200's greater travel distance may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys, as this can provide a sense of depth and a more deliberate typing experience. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation, making it a suitable option for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for switch feel and responsiveness, with the KD200 being the longer and the Vintage Citrus being the shorter option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 KD200 is known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which means you can expect a higher-pitched, pronounced sound with each keystroke, making it quite satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus also delivers a bright and clacky sound profile, providing an equally engaging auditory experience. Both switches share a similar vibrancy in their sound, ensuring that users will enjoy an exciting auditory response regardless of the switch they choose. However, it's worth noting that the overall sound can also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps you use.
When it comes to feel, the HMX KD200 switch features a distinct tactile response that many users may find engaging, but specific details about its smoothness or resistance are not provided. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch stands out with its remarkably smooth push feel, characteristic of switches designed for rapid input, making it particularly appealing for fast-paced gaming scenarios. While the KD200's feel might not be overtly detailed, if you're accustomed to a clacky response, it may still provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit perhaps with a more nuanced tactile feedback than the Vintage Citrus.
In conclusion, both the HMX KD200 and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches offer engaging experiences, albeit tailored to different preferences. The KD200's signature clackiness caters well to users who appreciate prominent sound feedback, while the Vintage Citrus, designed with gamers in mind, provides a smoother keystroke with the added benefit of a low actuation force for quick inputs. If you favor auditory feedback, either switch could resonate well, but if your priority lies in a smooth typing experience, the Vintage Citrus might take the edge. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel, both of which promise a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience paired with a bright, clacky sound profile, the KD200 might be the right choice for you, particularly if you enjoy a switch that evokes a satisfying auditory feedback while typing or gaming. This switch is especially appealing if you want a more prominent sound when you bottom out, making it great for those who like to hear their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're a gamer seeking rapid-fire inputs and a switch that allows for quick actuation, the Vintage Citrus is designed with a significantly low actuation distance of just 1mm, which means you can react faster in competitive scenarios. Additionally, with its medium-light bottom-out force and a smooth push feel, the Vintage Citrus caters to those who prefer a blend of speed and comfort during long gaming sessions. Thus, considering your primary usage—whether it's for gaming precision or satisfying auditory feedback—will guide you towards the best switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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