Jerrzi Lotus V2 vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the HMX Vintage Citrus stand out as excellent linear options tailored to different user needs. The Lotus V2 is renowned for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel, making it a solid choice for typists looking for a reliable and pleasant typing experience, though specific standout features aren't highlighted. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch is specifically designed for gamers, boasting an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for rapid-fire keyboard inputs crucial in high-paced gaming scenarios. This switch also features a bright, clacky sound profile and smooth actuation, providing not only performance but also satisfying feedback during intense gaming sessions. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your needs—whether you prioritize typing comfort or gaming responsiveness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
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
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the HMX Vintage Citrus showcase distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, which significantly influence their auditory and tactile characteristics. The Lotus V2 employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, renowned for producing a unique sound profile that is pleasing yet deeper and more muted. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus features nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon is characterized by its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a fuller and rounder sound profile. While both materials aim to create a satisfying auditory experience, the resulting sound signatures differ considerably due to their intrinsic properties.
When we look closer at the individual effects of the top and bottom housings, more similarities and distinctions emerge. The Lotus V2's use of POM across both housings contributes to a cohesive sound profile where the deeper and muted tones may resonate throughout the switch itself. This consistency can produce a unified user experience with minimal variation in sound when pressing and releasing the keys. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus benefits from nylon's softer quality, where the impact of the bottom housing shapes the bottom-out sound, while the top housing influences the release sound. The layered effect of these different materials allows the user to experience a deeper and fuller sound when pressed, while also ensuring a smooth transition as the key is released.
Ultimately, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that may appeal differently to users based on their preferences. While the Lotus V2 opts for a more muted and deep sound profile due to its use of POM, the Vintage Citrus leverages the softer nylon to create rounder and fuller tones. However, if one were to focus on the sensation of typing and sound profile, both models can achieve a similar outcome; the combination of softer housing materials—whether nylon or POM—contributes to sound absorption for a satisfying auditory experience. Users seeking deep, rich sounds may find that either switch meets their aesthetic, even with the materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, a distinct difference emerges in their actuation forces. The Lotus V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, which has an actuation force of 48 grams. This lighter force in the Lotus V2 may appeal to users who prefer less resistance during longer typing sessions, allowing for a more comfortable experience. However, the Vintage Citrus switch offers a bottom-out force of 53 grams, indicating a firmer feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom-out force for the Lotus V2 is unspecified, leaving a notable gap in understanding its overall tactile feedback. As a result, while the Lotus V2 is the lighter switch, the Vintage Citrus provides a more substantial push feel, catering to users who enjoy that heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, we find that the Lotus V2 has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Vintage Citrus measures at 3 mm. This means that the Vintage Citrus has the shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who value rapid response times. In contrast, the Lotus V2’s longer travel distance may appeal to users who favor a more substantial feel when typing, as it offers a greater depth that can enhance the tactile experience. Therefore, if you seek quicker actuation, the Vintage Citrus would be the better choice; however, if you prefer a more robust and less abrupt feedback, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 would be more to your liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
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
When comparing sound profiles, the Jerrzi Lotus V2's qualities are currently unknown, so we cannot draw any conclusions about its auditory performance. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch is known for its bright, clacky sound profile, which contributes to its appeal among gamers and users who prefer auditory feedback during typing or gaming sessions. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can vary depending on the keyboard's board and keycap materials, but the Vintage Citrus's design specifically promotes that lively sound signature.
Regarding feel, the Lotus V2's tactile characteristics are also unknown, leaving room for speculation about its user experience. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus linear switch is celebrated for its remarkably smooth push feel, which enhances the overall typing experience. With a low actuation force of just 1mm, it allows for quick and effortless key presses, making it particularly suitable for rapid inputs, a feature that many gamers appreciate.
In summary, while the qualities of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 remain a mystery, the HMX Vintage Citrus clearly stands out with its smooth actuation and vibrant sound profile—attributes that make it an excellent choice for gamers seeking speed and responsiveness. If the Lotus V2 were to embody similar qualities, users could expect a comparable performance, but until more information is available, the Vintage Citrus remains a definitive option for those prioritizing rapid-fire input and auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences as a typist or gamer. If you’re after a super-responsive feel and desire a switch that excels in rapid-fire situations, the Vintage Citrus is clearly the superior choice with its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams and ultra-low actuation distance of just 1mm. This makes it perfect for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. The added clacky sound profile may also enhance your gaming experience, providing tactile feedback that many gamers enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more muted typing experience, you might lean towards the Jerrzi Lotus V2 switch; although it's lacking specific force data, it’s typically associated with a premium feel that many users appreciate for prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision should boil down to whether you are prioritizing gaming performance with the Vintage Citrus or looking for a comfortable, silent typing experience with the Lotus V2. Remember to try both switches if possible, as personal feel can often trump specifications in the world of mechanical keyboards.
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