Gateron Mars vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Gateron Mars switches are renowned for their innovative design, which incorporates a POK stem and a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM. This unique combination delivers a smooth typing experience that some users may find particularly appealing for long typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switches are specifically tailored for gamers, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm that allows for speedy, precise inputs—ideal for fast-paced gaming environments. The Vintage Citrus also boasts a bright, clacky sound profile, providing auditory feedback that many users find invigorating and satisfying. While both switches offer a linear feel, they cater to different preferences and use cases. 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
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mars and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches, both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. This shared material results in similar acoustic properties, as the nylon top contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon enables it to absorb sound more effectively than harder alternatives, leading to a distinctly muted and rounded sound when typing. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a pleasing auditory experience characterized by resonance and warmth, shaping how the typing experience feels in terms of both sound and tactile feedback.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly. The Mars employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, known for producing a unique and deeper sound profile that is relatively muted. This allows for a distinct auditory experience during key presses. The Vintage Citrus, however, uses nylon for its bottom housing as well, sharing the same acoustic properties as its top housing. While the nylon bottom also contributes to a deep sound, it may not offer the same level of sound differentiation that the POM material provides in the Gateron Mars. This divergence means that the bottom-out sound will vary between the two switches, with the Mars offering a slightly richer auditory response as a result of the POM material's unique acoustic qualities.
Overall, the combined effect of the housing materials will shape the overall typing experience for users of both the Gateron Mars and HMX Vintage Citrus switches. While the nylon top housing in both switches ensures similarities in the upstroke sound and feel, the use of POM in the Mars’s bottom housing allows for a particularly distinctive auditory characteristic during key presses. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its nylon bottom housing, maintains a more uniform sound profile across both housings. Users seeking a fuller and more nuanced auditory feedback might gravitate towards the Mars, while those who appreciate a consistent sound profile across the board might prefer the Vintage Citrus. Ultimately, the differences in bottom housing reflect how the qualities of each material manifest differently in user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, some interesting distinctions emerge. The Gateron Mars has an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it the lighter option between the two, catering to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams, offering a more substantial feel. However, while the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unknown, the Vintage Citrus exhibits a bottom out force of 53 grams, further emphasizing its overall heavier build. Therefore, if you enjoy a more pronounced typing experience with a heavier keystroke, the Vintage Citrus is likely more suited to your preferences. On the other hand, if comfort and ease of typing are your priorities, the lighter Gateron Mars may be the better choice, especially since it promises a swifter response due to its lower actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches, the Gateron Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the HMX Vintage Citrus measures 3 mm. This means that the Mars switch offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced keypress experience, which some users may find preferable for a hearty depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus, with its shorter travel distance, allows for quicker response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers and those who prefer a snappier feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference: if you want a more responsive experience, the HMX Vintage Citrus is the better option, while the Gateron Mars caters to those who enjoy a deeper keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Mars linear switch remains undetermined in its specific auditory qualities, leaving an open question about how it might compare to the HMX Vintage Citrus. The Vintage Citrus is noted for its bright, clacky sound profile, which is characterized by a sharp and snappy acoustics when pressed. This results in a crisp and percussive typing experience that can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more auditory feedback from their keystrokes. However, the sound produced by any switch can be significantly influenced by the keyboard case and keycaps used, suggesting that while the Vintage Citrus offers its distinct clacky signature, the Mars switch's auditory qualities may vary and remain to be explored further.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars switch does not have specific qualities detailed about its tactile feedback, leaving its responsiveness and overall typing sensations somewhat ambiguous compared to the HMX Vintage Citrus. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch stands out with its snappy and invigorating characteristics. With a notably low actuation force of just 1mm, it allows for rapid-fire input, making each keystroke feel highly responsive. The invigorating feel, bolstered by pronounced feedback and a reactive nature, creates an immersive typing experience that many gamers and typists may find appealing. The absence of detailed descriptions regarding the Mars switch's tactile feedback leaves a gap in comparison, indicating that potential users may need to experiment for themselves to ascertain its unique feel.
In summary, while the Gateron Mars linear switch presents some unknown qualities in both sound and feel, the HMX Vintage Citrus offers a clearly defined clacky sound profile and a responsive, snappy typing experience driven by its uniquely low actuation force. For users looking for a distinct auditory feedback and a quick response during typing or gaming, the Vintage Citrus clearly excels. However, as the Mars switch's characteristics remain unspecified, it opens up a path for exploration, suggesting that users may have to engage with the switch directly to discover its potential and how it might compare to the more established attributes of the Vintage Citrus.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Mars linear switches and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience with a unique design that emphasizes consistency, the Gateron Mars switch might be the best fit for you. Its innovative materials and construction can offer a comfortable and refined feel, making it suitable for long hours of typing or a more subdued workspace. On the other hand, if you are a gamer or someone who enjoys a more tactile and responsive switch, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch will likely serve you better. With its low actuation force and pronounced feedback, you will experience rapid response times and enjoyable clackiness during gameplay, enhancing your overall performance. In essence, if you value a quiet yet smooth and consistent experience, go for the Mars; but if you seek snappy, invigorating feedback that excels in fast-paced gaming, the Vintage Citrus is the way to go.
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