Cherry MX Red vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red 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 decision often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Cherry MX Red switch has earned its reputation as a classic among typists and gamers alike, thanks to its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile. This linear switch offers a robust typing experience that strikes a balance between responsiveness and a satisfying auditory depth, often categorized as "thocky," "low-pitched," and "textured." On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch caters specifically to gamers with its exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, ideal for rapid-fire inputs during intense gaming sessions. This speed switch is characterized by a bright, clacky sound profile and a notably smooth push feel, making it a favorite for those seeking quick response times. Both switches have their unique attributes: the MX Red for a more substantial and nuanced typing experience, and the Vintage Citrus for a lighter, quicker touch suited for competitive gaming. 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
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
Both the Cherry MX Red and HMX Vintage Citrus switches share the same nylon top and bottom housing materials, a choice emblematic of their design philosophies. Nylon is renowned for its qualities that enhance the acoustic properties of mechanical switches. As a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This shared composition means that users can expect similar auditory experiences when utilizing either switch, with both offering a duller and rounder sound as compared to other switch types that may utilize stiffer materials.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housing, the experience of typing on them can still exhibit subtle differences due to potential variations in internal mechanisms or design tweaks that may not be immediately apparent from an external analysis of the housing materials. The bottom housing, in particular, has a notable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the acoustics upon releasing a key. As such, the user’s perception of the typing experience may depend not just on the material but also on the arrangement and interaction between these housings and the internal components of each switch.
Ultimately, when it comes to the Cherry MX Red and HMX Vintage Citrus switches, the shared nylon construction lays a foundation for similar tactile and auditory results. Whether one is typing on a Cherry MX Red or an HMX Vintage Citrus, users will likely notice a consistent sound signature, characterized by its depth and warmth. However, it is the overall switch design and component engineering that may determine the final typing experience, providing enthusiasts with a range of options that deliver not only on sound but also on feel and performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches, there are notable differences to consider. The Cherry MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the HMX Vintage Citrus, which has a higher actuation force of 48 grams. This slight difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch may find the MX Red more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Vintage Citrus has a stated bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Red is unavailable. Therefore, we cannot make a direct comparison for bottoming out; however, it is clear that the Vintage Citrus switch is the heavier option overall, providing a more substantial feel that some typists may appreciate. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch will likely gravitate towards the Cherry MX Red, while those desiring a bit more resistance may prefer the HMX Vintage Citrus.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Red and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches, it's clear that they differ significantly. The Cherry MX Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and offers a deeper feel when pressing the key. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, which aligns with the growing trend among gamers who favor quicker responsiveness in their typing experience. This shorter distance can be advantageous for those seeking immediate feedback, though some users may find it feels too abrupt. Ultimately, if you prefer a more pronounced keypress, the Cherry MX Red is the better choice due to its longer travel distance, while the Vintage Citrus caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness with its shorter 3 mm travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 profile, the Cherry MX Red switch stands out with its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep, rich auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. This sound offers a robust typing experience, akin to a soft "thud" or "knock" when a key is pressed and released, creating an immersive acoustic environment. On the other hand, while specifics about the sound profile of the HMX Vintage Citrus switch are not fully detailed, it is known for its bright and clacky sound, which typically caters well to gamers who often favor a more prominent auditory response during rapid key presses. As such, while the MX Red leans towards a deeper, more mellow sound, the Vintage Citrus offers a lively, higher-pitched auditory experience.
Turning to the tactile experience, the MX Red is characterized as having a slightly heftier feel along with a textured response. This textured sensation, where users may encounter some noticeable friction when pressing the keys, can provide a unique typing experience that some find appealing, while others might prefer smoother alternatives. The Vintage Citrus switch, designed with an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, is engineered for speed and responsiveness, making it perfect for rapid-fire keyboard inputs. However, specific qualities regarding its tactile feedback remain unspecified, leaving some elements about how it feels to type on ambiguous.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red and HMX Vintage Citrus switches cater to different user preferences regarding sound and feel. The Cherry MX Red provides a fulfilling, deeper auditory experience with a textured tactile response that some users might enjoy for typing, while the Vintage Citrus leans toward a brighter sound profile and rapid actuation designed for gaming. Each switch presents distinct qualities that can lead to similar satisfaction depending on individual preferences; someone seeking a robust typing experience may feel equally pleased with either option based on the sound and feel nuances they prioritize.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Red and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches largely depends on your preferences and intended usage. If you value a more traditional typing experience with a deeper sound profile and are looking for a robust feel, the Cherry MX Red is an excellent choice. Its thocky sound and slightly heavier sensation provide a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback that many typists appreciate, making it ideal for both office work and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you're a competitive gamer or someone who prioritizes rapid key presses, the HMX Vintage Citrus stands out with its exceptionally low actuation force and quick response time, allowing for swift actions during intense gaming sessions. Its bright, clacky sound enhances the excitement of gameplay while its smooth push feel ensures comfort over extended periods. Ultimately, consider whether your focus is on the auditory satisfaction and heavier typing experience of the MX Red or the speed and responsiveness of the Vintage Citrus when making your decision.
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