HMX Lucky vs. HMX Vintage Citrus

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and HMX Vintage Citrus switches present two compelling options tailored to different preferences and uses. The Lucky switch is renowned for its softer, glittery nylon housings, which offer a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience—making it an excellent choice for those who value comfort and a balanced feel during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch is specifically designed for gamers, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm that facilitates rapid-fire keyboard inputs. Its bright, clacky sound profile and remarkably smooth push feel cater to those who thrive on speed and auditory feedback in high-paced gaming scenarios. While both switches are linear and cater to distinct needs, they each offer unique benefits worth considering. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

HMX Lucky Linear

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Lucky and HMX Vintage Citrus switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which establishes a strong foundation for comparing their overall acoustic profiles and typing experiences. Given that nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties, both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared material choice contributes to the switches' ability to mitigate high-frequency vibrations, resulting in a more subdued and rounded auditory experience. Consequently, typing on either switch would elicit a similar auditory feedback, defined by a satisfying and muted sound when engaged.

Both the Lucky and Vintage Citrus switches feature identical nylon construction for both the top and bottom housings, which suggests that users can expect an analogous typing feel and sound output. Since each switch benefits from the same material characteristics, the overall typing experience remains consistent across both models. As the nylon components absorb sound waves, they not only create a warm sound but also enhance the tactile feedback one feels while typing, ensuring that users have a uniform experience regardless of which switch they choose.

While the materials are consistent across the HMX Lucky and HMX Vintage Citrus switches, it's important to note that the interaction between the top and bottom housings can affect the bottom-out sound and feel. When users press down on these switches, they will experience the combined qualities of both housings, maintaining the signature sound profiles characteristic of nylon. The muted auditory quality emphasized by the bottom housing allows for an equally pleasant experience upon releasing the keys. Thus, despite the identical material choices, the implementation within each model does not detract from their individual performances; instead, it underscores how similar materials can yield consistent and enjoyable results in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience that allows for prolonged use. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a higher actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel under their fingers when typing or gaming. As such, the Lucky is the lighter option, while the Vintage Citrus is the heavier one. This distinction in force requirements means that if you prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gameplay, the HMX Lucky would be the better choice, whereas the HMX Vintage Citrus would provide a more forceful response, ideal for individuals who appreciate a pronounced keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there's a notable difference to consider. The HMX Lucky features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the more shallow option, favoring those who prefer quicker key presses for a faster response time, which is often preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky's longer travel distance offers a more substantial feel, appealing to users who favor a hearty depth in their key presses. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch offers a typing experience that is characterized as neutral and satisfying, which suggests a comparatively subdued acoustic profile. This can create a more focused environment, ideal for office settings or tasks requiring concentration. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is noted for its bright, clacky sound profile, which may evoke a more playful and lively auditory experience during typing or gaming sessions. The difference in sound characteristics means that while the Lucky is suited for quieter surroundings, the Vintage Citrus excites with its more pronounced audio feedback, catering well to users who enjoy a more vibrant soundscape while typing.

Focusing on feel, the HMX Lucky switch is defined by its lightweight and smooth characteristics, providing a deeply satisfying typing experience that lends itself well to all-day use. Its softer nylon housing contributes to a gentler actuation, which many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch is designed specifically with gamers in mind, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm. This allows for rapid-fire key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios. The smooth push feel of this switch further complements its gaming-oriented design, creating a responsive experience that can enhance gameplay performance.

In conclusion, while the HMX Lucky linear switch caters more to an all-around typing experience with its neutral sound and satisfying feel, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch stands out with its bright, clacky sound and gamer-centric features. Users should consider what qualities matter most to them—be it the calm typing atmosphere offered by the Lucky or the lively engagement of the Vintage Citrus—to determine which switch aligns best with their preferences. Both switches present unique qualities that cater to different needs and settings, ensuring an enjoyable experience in their respective domains.

Conclusion

To summarize, when deciding between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your specific needs and preferences. If you favor a lighter typing experience that feels neutral and satisfying, the Lucky switch, with its 43-gram bottom-out force and softer nylon housing, is likely your best option. It’s particularly suitable for tasks like typing or casual gaming where comfort and ease of use are paramount. On the other hand, if you often engage in fast-paced gaming and require quicker actuation, the Vintage Citrus, with its 53-gram bottom-out force and low 1mm actuation point, would serve you well. This switch excels in rapid-fire input scenarios, offering a clacky sound profile and a remarkably smooth feel that enhances your gaming experience. Thus, consider your primary activities and how each switch’s characteristics align with your typing or gaming style to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more