Dareu Master vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable contenders are the Dareu Master and the HMX Vintage Citrus, both linear switches that cater to different user preferences. The Dareu Master is celebrated for its medium actuation weight, delivering a classic clacky sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience that many typists and gamers alike appreciate. Its balance of tactile feedback and acoustic charm makes it a versatile choice for users seeking a blend of performance and auditory pleasure. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus sets itself apart with its ultra-light actuation force of just 1mm, designed specifically for gamers who thrive on speed and rapid-fire inputs. This switch not only features a bright clacky sound but also offers an incredibly smooth push feel, appealing to those who prioritize quick response times in competitive gaming. While both switches provide unique advantages—whether you're drawn to the rounded performance of the Dareu Master or the lightning-fast responsiveness of the Vintage Citrus—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your specific needs.
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
Partial 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 Dareu Master and the HMX Vintage Citrus keyboards showcase distinct housing materials that influence their auditory and tactile characteristics. The Dareu Master utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, while the HMX Vintage Citrus employs nylon for the same components. POM is known for creating a unique and pleasing sound profile, characterized by a deeper and relatively muted tone. In contrast, the nylon used in the Vintage Citrus is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. This fundamental difference in material composition results in varied auditory experiences when typing or gaming on these keyboards.
Moreover, the differing characteristics of POM and nylon extend beyond just sound. The Dareu Master’s POM housings are designed to enhance the overall feel and stability of the switch, contributing to a satisfying bottom-out experience. Conversely, the nylon used in the Vintage Citrus imparts a duller and rounder sound due to its ability to absorb vibrations more effectively. As a result, while both keyboards achieve a deeper sound profile, they do so through different mechanisms: the POM housing emphasizes clarity and uniqueness, while the nylon offers a smoother and more muted auditory experience.
However, despite the differences in material, users may find similar results in terms of the overall typing experience. Both the POM and nylon housings lend themselves to a pleasant and satisfying keypress feel, with each contributing to a gratifying typing rhythm. The Master's POM housings and the Vintage Citrus's nylon housings offer distinct personalities in sound and feel, yet both align in creating an immersive typing environment. Users who appreciate the deeper sound profile can find satisfaction in either option, as the combined attributes of the top and bottom housings across both models coalesce to deliver a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Dareu Master has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the HMX Vintage Citrus requires a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams, indicating that the Master switch is the lighter option, which may appeal to users who prefer effortless typing and extended use, such as during long work sessions or gaming. However, the Vintage Citrus switch carries a defined bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Master is unavailable. This suggests a more substantial keystroke feel with the Vintage Citrus, making it a better fit for those who enjoy a stronger push during typing. Overall, if lighter switches are preferred, the Dareu Master stands out, yet users seeking a more tactile and heavier typing experience would likely gravitate towards the HMX Vintage Citrus.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there is a distinct difference. The Master switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Vintage Citrus switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the more shallow option, catering to users who prefer quicker response times typical in gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Dareu Master switch, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial feel that some users may find appealing for typing or gaming, as it provides a deeper, more tactile experience. Consequently, those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress may prefer the Master, while gamers seeking faster actuation might opt for the Vintage Citrus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
The sound profile of the Dareu Master linear switch is distinctively clacky, providing a crisp and bright auditory response with each key press. This sharp and snappy sound signifier enhances the typing experience, creating a percussive ambiance that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, while the HMX Vintage Citrus is also known for its clacky sound profile, specific details about its auditory characteristics are not provided. That said, given its design geared toward gamers, one can expect a similarly engaging sound experience that complements fast-paced gaming and typing sessions.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Dareu Master stands out with its mild and polished characteristics. The mildness grants users a gentle typing experience that avoids the extremes of harsher switch types, making it approachable for a wide range of users. Additionally, the polished nature of the Master ensures reduced friction, fostering a smooth and refined key travel that enhances overall typing comfort. Conversely, there is no specific information available about the feel of the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, making direct comparisons challenging. However, its exceptionally low actuation force implies a focus on swift responsiveness, which may translate to a different tactile experience favoring rapid, decisive keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Master and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches cater to distinct user preferences, particularly in sound and feel. The Master offers a well-rounded clacky sound coupled with a mild and polished typing experience. Although the Vintage Citrus also shares a bright sound signature, its tactile qualities are less defined. If you're drawn to a clacky sound and smooth operation, both switches could provide satisfying outcomes, though the specific feel of the Vintage Citrus remains unknown. Ultimately, your choice might come down to the sound attributes you prefer and the typing feel that best suits your style, as both could potentially deliver similar sonic satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences in a mechanical keyboard. If you appreciate a balanced typing experience that offers a classic clacky sound and smooth operation, the Master switch might be the better choice for you. It strikes a medium weight suitable for both typing and gaming, delivering a polished feel that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you’re focused on rapid gameplay or tend to perform a lot of quick key presses, the Vintage Citrus with its low actuation force and enhanced speed is tailored specifically for such demands. Its bright, clacky profile, combined with a responsive feel, will cater well to gamers looking for both performance and auditory feedback. Ultimately, your preference for sound, feel, and required actuation force will guide you in selecting the switch that best fits your typing style and gaming needs.
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