Cherry Nixie vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanized typing experiences, the choice of switch significantly influences both performance and personal preference. The Cherry Nixie switches are beloved for their textured, thocky feel, delivering a rich tactile response that many typing enthusiasts cherish. With substantial heft and an updated design from Cherry's MX2A line, these switches seamlessly fuse classic charm with modern durability, making them ideal for those who appreciate a comforting, low-pitched typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Vintage Citrus switches cater specifically to gamers, boasting an astonishingly low actuation force of just 1mm. This allows for rapid-fire inputs and a smooth keystroke that’s particularly advantageous during intense gaming sessions, all complemented by a bright, clacky sound profile that adds to the excitement of gameplay. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on the user's needs—whether it's the nostalgic enjoyment found in the Cherry Nixie's craftsmanship or the swift responsiveness of the Vintage Citrus. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches are strikingly similar, with both utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This commonality means that users can expect comparable auditory characteristics when typing on these switches. Nylon is known for its softer texture compared to harder plastics, which results in a sound profile that is deeper and fuller. The dynamic of sound absorption provided by nylon contributes to a more muted sound when bottoming out, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience that many users appreciate for its pleasant acoustic properties.
Even though both switches share the same material for their housings, the way these materials interact during use can lead to subtle differences in performance. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out feel, impacting how users perceive the actuation of the switch. Because both the Cherry Nixie and HMX Vintage Citrus utilize nylon for their bottom housings, users will experience a comparable bottoming-out sensation, characterized by a combined soft touch and muffled sound. This consistency is especially reassuring for those who prioritize tactile feedback and sound dynamics when selecting their switches.
On the other hand, the top housings also contribute to the overall typing experience, particularly affecting the sound produced when the key is released. Given that both switches employ nylon for both top and bottom, the similarities extend to the release sound as well; both switches will produce a lower pitched and softer sound when the key is lifted. Ultimately, whoever chooses between the Cherry Nixie and HMX Vintage Citrus can expect similar typing results from their nylon housings, characterized by a unique blend of deep, full sound and tactile satisfaction, enhancing the overall typing experience for enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Nixie switch features an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavier option suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light choice ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. As a result, individuals who favor a lighter touch are likely to gravitate towards the Vintage Citrus for its ease of use, while those seeking a firmer push will find the Cherry Nixie more appealing. Hence, the Nixie is the heavier switch, providing a stronger tactile response, whereas the Vintage Citrus is the lighter switch, yielding a gentler typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch measures 3 mm in travel distance. This difference highlights the Nixie's status as a more traditional option, providing a deeper feel that some users may find satisfying, especially those who prefer a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch with its shorter 3 mm travel distance caters to gamers and those who favor faster response times, making it an appealing choice for rapid typing or gaming scenarios. Therefore, if you seek a more responsive keypress, the Vintage Citrus would be the better option, whereas the Nixie is suited for those who enjoy a fuller typing experience. Overall, the Nixie offers a longer travel distance, while the Vintage Citrus provides a shorter one, guiding users to select based on their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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, Cherry Nixie switches offer a deep and satisfying thocky tone, characterized by a low-pitched and bass-heavy quality. This produces a rich auditory experience that many users appreciate during long typing sessions or intense gaming, creating a sense of engagement with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch's sound profile remains unknown, but its design focuses mainly on rapid-fire inputs for gaming, which may suggest a more pronounced and possibly higher-pitched sound, though this is speculative. The effective acoustics of any switch are also influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, making it essential to consider these factors when evaluating sound.
Regarding feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for a textured experience, providing noticeable friction when pressed. This textured feedback can be a point of preference for users who enjoy tactile sensations as they type, adding to the overall engagement of the experience. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is unspecified, which leaves a gap in comparison for tactile feedback. However, given its design intention for gamers, it might lean towards a smoother and more responsive action, catering to quick inputs, but without specific information, this remains uncertain.
In summary, the Cherry Nixie linear switch stands out with its thocky sound and textured feel, appealing to users who appreciate a hefty auditory and tactile experience. The HMX Vintage Citrus switch, while optimized for speed with a low actuation force, lacks detailed sound and feel descriptions, leaving both qualities open to interpretation. Together, these switches cater to different needs—one emphasizing depth and texture, ideal for typing and general use, while the other focuses on quick responsiveness, likely suited for gaming. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile experience, as well as the intended use of the keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a substantial heft to your keystrokes and enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry Nixie will likely resonate with you. Its heavier 80-gram actuation force and textured feel offer a satisfying tactile experience, making it an excellent choice for those who do a lot of typing or seek a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you're a gamer looking for something that's not only fast but also responsive, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch, with its medium-light 53-gram actuation force and quick 1mm actuation point, would be your best bet. The bright, clacky sound and remarkably smooth push feel make it ideal for rapid-fire inputs, allowing you to execute commands with ease and precision. Ultimately, the right switch for you comes down to whether you prioritize a robust, tactile experience with the Nixie or sleek speed and responsiveness with the Vintage Citrus.
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