Gateron Quinn vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn 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 Gateron Quinn and HMX Vintage Citrus offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Quinn switch is a tactile marvel, delivering a precise and crisp tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy while also providing users with a uniquely immersive sound profile thanks to its deep, resonant tones. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate the satisfying audible feedback and tactile sensation during each keystroke, making it ideal for both typists and gamers who enjoy a more engaging experience. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is tailored specifically for gamers, featuring an incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for rapid key presses and lightning-fast inputs. This linear switch offers a smooth feel with a bright, clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for competitive gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. While both switches bring their own unique advantages, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Quinn and HMX Vintage Citrus both feature nylon housing for their tops and bottoms, resulting in a similarity that speaks to the durability and acoustic qualities of the materials. Nylon is widely recognized in the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its softer plastic composition. This means that users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience, as the nylon's sound-absorbing properties reduce vibrations and create a rounder sound. Consequently, typists and gamers seeking a more muted audio feedback will likely find both switches to meet their preferences effectively.
Despite their shared nylon materials, the design and build of these two switches can introduce subtle differences in feel and sound profile during usage. As noted, the bottom housing of a switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon release. Therefore, while both the Gateron Quinn and Vintage Citrus will provide a universally appreciated sound dampening effect, individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound may lead users to favor one switch over the other based on the nuances in design rather than material alone. This highlights the importance of considering both the material and the switch's construction when selecting a keyboard switch.
Ultimately, if the Gateron Quinn and HMX Vintage Citrus share their nylon construction for both top and bottom housings, users can expect a broadly similar performance in terms of sound dampening and typing feel. This commonality would offer mechanical keyboard enthusiasts a choice between two brands without sacrificing the fundamental benefits of the nylon material, making both switches appealing options. However, the unique characteristics imparted by each manufacturer's design choices could enhance user experience, illustrating how even minor variations can influence overall satisfaction in the tactile and auditory aspects of typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are clear distinctions in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron Quinn features an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. This means that the Quinn switch requires a stronger push to activate, providing a more substantial typing experience favored by those who appreciate a heavier feel. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus switch, being lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, is ideal for users who prefer long typing sessions without fatigue. As a result, the Quinn is the heavier option, while the Vintage Citrus is the lighter one, catering to different typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there's a notable difference: the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Vintage Citrus features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This means that the Quinn offers a slightly deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial response when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus's shorter travel distance might be more suitable for gamers looking for quicker actuation and faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Quinn being the longer option for those seeking a hearty depth, while the Vintage Citrus provides a more immediate, albeit less pronounced, response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, the differences are quite distinct. The Quinn is celebrated for its deep, resonant sound that delivers a rich auditory experience, characterized by bassy tones and a clean, sharp resonance with every keystroke. Its sound design offers a combination of low-pitched and clacky characteristics, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus is tailored more for speed with an exceptionally low actuation force, but specific sound characteristics are not clearly defined. While it can be assumed to have a bright and clacky profile given its gaming focus, the exact tonal qualities are less documented, leaving its acoustic flair somewhat unknown in comparison to the Quinn.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn offers a tactile experience that can be described as snappy, polished, and bouncy. This combination results in a typing experience that feels highly responsive and engaging, thanks to the refined materials and refined design. Users can expect a medium tactile feedback that strikes a balance, creating an enjoyable keystroke that is both lively and smooth. Conversely, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch's feel is designed for rapid inputs and is presumably very smooth, but exact descriptors for its tactile feedback and push feel are absent. Given its design for gaming, however, one can infer it likely emphasizes quick actuation without excessive tactile resistance, offering a different kind of performance that focuses less on tactile feedback and more on speed.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a richer sound profile and a more refined tactile feel, characterized by its deep resonance and engaging feedback, the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch is geared primarily toward speed and efficiency, although its audio characteristics remain less defined. The Quinn offers a more immersive auditory and tactile experience, while the Vintage Citrus promises a smooth and responsive input ideal for fast-paced gaming. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize tactile engagement and sound fidelity or speed and fluidity in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing or gaming needs. If you appreciate a tactile typing experience characterized by a snappy feel, deeper sound, and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Quinn is the ideal choice, providing a delightful blend of crisp tactility and rich auditory feedback. This makes it particularly well-suited for typists who enjoy the pleasure of tactile feedback and immersive sound in their daily typing tasks. On the other hand, if your primary focus is competitive gaming, where speed and rapid key actuation are paramount, the Vintage Citrus switch is your best bet. With its notably low actuation force and smooth feel, this switch allows for quick key presses, making it easier to perform in fast-paced scenarios. In essence, opt for the Quinn if you crave tactile engagement and an enjoyable typing experience, and choose the Vintage Citrus if your priorities lean towards speed and efficiency during gaming sessions.
Mentioned in this article
