Huano Sakura vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can greatly influence both your typing experience and gaming performance. The Huano Sakura switch is celebrated for its feather-light touch and a medium acoustics profile, making it an attractive option for users who engage in extended typing sessions, where comfort and sound level are key considerations. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is tailored specifically for gamers, featuring an impressively low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for rapid-fire key presses and responsiveness during fast-paced gameplay. With its bright, clacky sound and remarkably smooth push feel, the Vintage Citrus appeals to those who prioritize quick reaction times and auditory feedback. While both switches are linear, offering smooth key presses without tactile bumps, their design philosophy caters to different user needs. 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
35g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Huano Sakura and HMX Vintage Citrus switches, one of the most notable differences lies in their top housing materials. The Sakura utilizes POK (polyketone), which is recognized for its superior durability and smoothness owing to its low coefficient of friction (0.04). This material enhances the switch's performance by providing an exceptionally strong structure, far surpassing POM materials. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus features a nylon top housing that is more traditional in the world of switches. While nylon is known for its sound absorption properties, allowing for a rounder and deeper sound profile, it doesn't achieve the same level of durability as POK. The difference in material selection reflects a divergence in design philosophy, with the Sakura prioritizing smoothness and durability, while the Vintage Citrus opts for a more classic and acoustically pleasing typing experience.
On the other hand, both switches present a uniformity in their bottom housing, as both the Sakura and Vintage Citrus utilize nylon. This consistency means that regardless of the top housing differences, users will experience a similar auditory outcome influenced by the nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon contributes to a deeper sound profile and effectively dampens sound, providing a satisfying acoustic experience upon keystrokes. This shared attribute allows for the grounding of sound consistency across the two models, giving each switch a more classic feel typical of mechanical keyboards while still delivering enhanced sound qualities.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches distinguishes their overall performance and auditory experience. The Sakura, with its POK top and nylon bottom, promises a unique blend of durability and tailored sound, while the Vintage Citrus adheres to a more traditional aesthetic with its complete nylon housing. If a user seeks a switch that combines smooth operation and strong durability, the POK-equipped Sakura is ideal. However, for those who appreciate a classic, fuller sound with softer keystrokes, the Vintage Citrus remains an excellent choice. In essence, while both switches showcase their own virtues, the differences in their top housing materials significantly shape their tactile and acoustic characteristics, even as they share a common nylon base.
Weight
The comparison between the Huano Sakura and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches reveals notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces, leading to distinct user experiences. The Sakura switch features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a comfortable typing experience over extended periods, such as in work settings or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom-out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. As a result, those who appreciate a lighter switch may find the Sakura more suitable, while users looking for a firmer push should opt for the Vintage Citrus. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom-out forces cater to varying preferences, ensuring a tailored typing experience for both types of users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Sakura linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, the Sakura offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This indicates that the Sakura provides a more substantial depth when pressed, catering to those who prefer a fuller keystroke experience. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its shallower 3 mm travel distance, is likely to appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation and faster response times. In summary, if you favor a hearty depth in your keystrokes, the Huano Sakura would be the ideal choice, whereas the HMX Vintage Citrus delivers a shorter travel distance better suited for rapid input.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 Huano Sakura linear switch has medium acoustics, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience while still providing a pleasant auditory feedback during long typing sessions. This balanced sound profile allows for a more muted auditory environment that won't distract in shared or professional spaces. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch produces a bright and clacky sound profile, which is particularly advantageous for gamers seeking an audibly rewarding experience with each keystroke. This pronounced sound can create a more engaging and dynamic atmosphere, especially during fast-paced gaming scenarios. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by factors like the keyboard's build materials and the keycaps used, meaning that both switches can offer a unique auditory experience based on the setup.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the Huano Sakura offers a feather-light touch, which is especially beneficial for extended typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue and allowing for a more effortless experience. This smoothness in actuation can make a significant difference for those spending long hours at the keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is designed for rapid input with an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, providing a remarkably smooth push feel that gamers will appreciate during fast-paced gameplay. This quick response is ideal for executing rapid commands, further enhancing the performance aspect for gamers.
In summary, both the Huano Sakura and HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches cater to different needs and preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboards. The Sakura excels in providing a comfortable and quiet typing experience, making it suitable for long sessions of typing without much noise. Meanwhile, the Vintage Citrus stands out for its gaming-focused design with rapid actuation and an engaging sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter, more subtle experience or a responsive, exciting one tailored for gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific needs and use case. If you're looking for a switch that provides a feather-light feel with a medium sound profile, the Sakura is an excellent choice, especially for extended typing sessions where comfort is a top priority. Its 45g bottom-out force allows for less fatigue over long durations, making it perfect for writers or anyone who prioritizes typing efficiency and comfort. On the other hand, if your focus leans more toward gaming, the Vintage Citrus switch stands out with its quick 1mm actuation force and medium-light 53g bottom-out force, designed for rapid-fire inputs. Its clacky sound profile and smooth pushing mechanism cater to gamers who thrive on speed and responsiveness. In essence, for those engaged in prolonged typing activities, the Sakura is your go-to, whereas if you’re a gamer seeking performance and a distinct audio feedback, the Vintage Citrus will serve you better. By considering your intended use, you can make an informed choice that enhances your overall experience with mechanical keyboards.
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