KTT MoonRosa vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT MoonRosa and the HMX Vintage Citrus offer two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts and gamers alike. The MoonRosa, crafted entirely from POM, is celebrated for its buttery smooth typing experience and neutral sound profile, making it a fantastic choice for those who prioritize a serene and satisfying keystroke. Its low-pitched and easy-to-press nature ensures comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus is designed with gamers in mind, featuring a remarkably low actuation force of just 1mm that enables rapid, responsive inputs ideal for fast-paced gaming. This switch delivers a bright, clacky sound and a snappy, invigorating feel that can enhance one's gaming experience, especially in competitive scenarios. While both switches excel in their individual strengths, the decision ultimately hinges on personal preference and intended use. 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
37g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT MoonRosa and HMX Vintage Citrus switches showcase differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence their sound and feel. The MoonRosa utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, known for producing a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus features nylon for its housing materials. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, tends to absorb sound more effectively due to its softer composition. Consequently, this results in a similarly deeper and fuller sound profile, yet with a rounder and duller characteristic compared to the more defined sound of the MoonRosa. The materials thus reveal distinct sonic signatures despite both promoting greater depth in sound.
When focusing on the top housings, the differences become even more apparent. The POM top housing of the MoonRosa enhances the tactile experience while providing a unique sound signature during the key's release, creating a distinct auditory experience for the user. The contrasting nylon top housing of the Vintage Citrus, on the other hand, emphasizes a softer touch with a smoother acoustic profile when keys are released, giving it a different sound quality. Therefore, while both switches offer a deeper sound, they deliver this quality through different material interactions—POM providing a crisp muted resonance, and nylon fostering a gentle, enveloping sound.
Considering the bottom housings, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is noteworthy. The POM bottom housing of the MoonRosa contributes to a consistent experience in terms of feedback and sound upon bottoming out, while the nylon bottom housing in the Vintage Citrus also delivers a deeper sound, amplifying the rounded qualities associated with its top housing. Ultimately, both switches utilize their respective materials to produce an engaging typing experience, though the overall sensations and sound character differ. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound depth but will notice unique distinctions attributed to the differing material compositions of the switches.
Weight
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch present distinct profiles in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The MoonRosa features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial feel while typing. This difference highlights the MoonRosa as the lighter option, whereas the Vintage Citrus is on the heavier side. Ultimately, while the actuation and bottom out forces vary between these switches, the differences allow for tailored experiences based on individual preferences, whether one desires a feather-light touch or a firmer key feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, the MoonRosa offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the more shallow option, catering to gamers and users who prioritize quick response times. Conversely, the MoonRosa, with its longer travel distance, may appeal more to users who appreciate a bit more depth and feedback in their typing experience. Ultimately, if you value responsiveness and speed, the Vintage Citrus would be the preferable choice, while those seeking a more traditional feel might lean towards the MoonRosa for its slightly greater travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 KTT MoonRosa switch offers a low-pitched, buttery smooth typing experience, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch presents a bright and clacky sound profile, producing a sharp, snappy noise with each keystroke. This distinction in auditory feedback can significantly influence the typing experience; while the MoonRosa provides a more subdued ambience suitable for quieter environments or prolonged typing sessions, the Vintage Citrus captures attention with its crisp and percussive sound, catering well to gamers and users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the MoonRosa switch is designed to be easy to press, offering gentle resistance for a seamless typing experience. This low actuation force makes it particularly comfortable for extended use, with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch features a snappy and invigorating feel, characterized by pronounced feedback and a highly responsive typing sensation. The light actuation force, combined with a more reactive experience, creates a dynamic interaction that can engage users during fast-paced gaming or rigorous typing efforts, making it feel lively and energizing.
In conclusion, the KTT MoonRosa and HMX Vintage Citrus switches present two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The MoonRosa is ideal for those who enjoy a smooth, low-pitched experience with a focus on comfort and reduced fatigue. The Vintage Citrus, with its bright and clacky sound alongside an invigorating feel, excels in gaming contexts where speed and responsiveness are paramount. Both switches have unique characteristics that can provide satisfying typing experiences, whether you prefer a quiet, smooth keystroke or a lively, engaging interaction. Ultimately, the choice between the two should align with your personal priorities in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and use case. If you prioritize a lightweight typing experience that is smooth and effortless, the MoonRosa is an excellent choice. Its low bottom-out force of 45 grams and buttery feel make it perfect for extended typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue while maintaining a mellow sound profile. This switch is particularly suitable for writers, programmers, or anyone who enjoys a more subdued key feel without the distraction of a loud sound. On the other hand, if you're a gamer seeking speed and responsiveness, the Vintage Citrus is likely the better fit. With its rapid actuation force of just 1mm, medium-light bottom-out force, and bright, clacky sound, this switch enhances quick interactions, making it ideal for gaming where every millisecond counts. The invigorating tactile feedback and snappy response would keep you engaged during intense gaming sessions. Therefore, consider what type of typing or gaming experience you desire most, and choose the switch that aligns best with those needs.
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