Cherry MX Orange vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between the Cherry MX Orange and the HMX Vintage Citrus, both remarkable linear switches that cater to different user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange switches are renowned for their revival of the original MX Orange designs, now reissued with enhancements that deliver a satisfying tactile experience while maintaining a balanced actuation force, making them suitable for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus is engineered specifically for gamers, featuring a remarkably low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for rapid input and a quick response time, complemented by a bright and clacky sound profile that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback while they game. Each switch has its merits: the MX Orange offers a blend of nostalgia and performance versatility, while the Vintage Citrus excels in speed and 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
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Orange and HMX Vintage Citrus switches share a striking similarity in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of nylon, a classic switch housing material, significantly influences the auditory experience associated with typing on these switches. By employing nylon, both switches generate a deeper and fuller sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, which results in a duller and rounder auditory output. Consequently, users of both the MX Orange and Vintage Citrus can expect similar sound characteristics while typing, promoting a satisfying acoustic ambiance.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, the nylon material used carries the same impact as the top housing. Since both the Cherry MX Orange and HMX Vintage Citrus feature nylon as their bottom housing material, the qualities imparted by this material play a crucial role in defining the tactile experience and bottom-out sound. Nylon's softer composition dampens vibrations upon keystrokes, leading to a more muted sound profile when compared to harder plastic variants. Therefore, users can anticipate a consistent bottoming-out experience, further fortifying the connection between sound and feel across these two switch models.
While both the MX Orange and Vintage Citrus leverage nylon for their housings, the unified material choice implies that their acoustic and tactile signatures will exhibit substantial overlap. The characteristics of nylon contribute to a pleasant typing experience, characterized by reduced noise levels and a rounded sound when keys are released. Hence, whether using Cherry MX Orange or HMX Vintage Citrus switches, users will likely enjoy a remarkably similar typing feel and auditory feedback, making both switches appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a refined sound experience in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch to the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Cherry MX Orange has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the HMX Vintage Citrus's actuation force of 48 grams, making the Vintage Citrus the lighter option. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for users who prefer longer typing sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. However, the Cherry MX Orange's bottom out force is not specified, while the Vintage Citrus features a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorized as medium-light. This means that even when bottoming out, the Vintage Citrus still maintains a relatively low force compared to the unspecified bottom out force of the MX Orange. As such, while both switches offer unique typing experiences, the Cherry MX Orange is generally suited for those who prefer a heavier tactile feedback, while the HMX Vintage Citrus is more aligned with users seeking a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch measures 4 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference indicates that the Cherry MX Orange offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which some users prefer for its satisfying tactile response during typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus, with its shallower 3 mm travel distance, caters to those who prioritize quick key presses and faster response times, making it popular among gamers. While the MX Orange may provide a more substantial push, the Vintage Citrus's shorter travel could feel more abrupt for some users. In choosing between the two, personal preference will play a significant role, as those who enjoy a fuller depth might lean toward the Cherry MX Orange, whereas those seeking rapid key actuation may opt for the HMX Vintage Citrus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 MX Orange switch remains somewhat less known, but it can be anticipated to possess a balanced acoustic quality that many users appreciate, likely producing a subtle, yet satisfying keystroke feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is specifically designed for a bright and clacky sound, which offers a pronounced auditory feedback that adds to the gaming experience, making every keystroke feel more impactful. It's worth noting that the ultimate sound experience will greatly depend on the keyboard build and keycap material used, meaning that both switches could deliver varied sound qualities when paired with different setups.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the MX Orange boasts a smooth actuation that lends itself well to both typing and gaming, making it a versatile choice for users seeking comfort alongside performance. The Vintage Citrus, in contrast, stands out with an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, providing a remarkably effortless and smooth push feel. This feature can greatly enhance responsiveness during rapid gaming sessions, catering specifically to users who prioritize speed in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Orange and HMX Vintage Citrus switches offer distinctive sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. While the MX Orange provides a balanced keystroke with a pleasing sound, the Vintage Citrus elevates auditory feedback with its bright, clacky profile and low actuation force designed for quick inputs. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying experiences on your mechanical keyboard, with the appropriate choices in keycaps and boards further shaping the overall performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Cherry MX Orange and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches, your specific needs and preferences will play a pivotal role in your decision. If you’re someone who enjoys a nostalgic typing experience combined with enhanced responsiveness, the Cherry MX Orange could be your ideal choice, offering a balanced feel without the overwhelming pressure of a defined bottom-out force. However, if your primary focus is on gaming, particularly for rapid sequences where speed and precision are paramount, the HMX Vintage Citrus is hard to beat. Its low actuation point allows for quick, successive keystrokes, while its clacky sound profile can make your gaming sessions feel even more dynamic. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a blend of vintage charm and comfort with the MX Orange or the modern, high-speed performance that the Vintage Citrus promises.
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