Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of different options to suit their specific needs. The Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX Vintage Citrus are two linear switches that cater to varying preferences, with distinct characteristics that make them appealing. The Smoothie Silver is celebrated for its short travel distance and feather-light touch, offering enthusiasts an incredibly smooth keystroke experience complemented by a satisfying "thock" sound. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a blend of speed and acoustics in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus is designed with gamers in mind, featuring a rapid 1mm actuation force that enables quick inputs, ideal for fast-paced gaming sessions. Its bright, clacky sound profile adds an exciting auditory dimension to gameplay, while its smoothness ensures a comfortable feel. Both switches provide unique advantages, tailored to different activities and preferences; 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
1.20 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches, we find notable distinctions that contribute to each switch’s sound profile and overall typing experience. The Smoothie Silver features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards a deeper and more muted quality. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus uses a nylon top housing, which is a classic material for switches. The nylon housing complements a richer, fuller sound profile that evokes a softer typing experience, primarily due to its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics like POM.
The bottom housings of both switches echo the characteristics of their respective top housings. The Smoothie Silver’s POM bottom housing continues the trend of generating a deeper sound profile that is pleasantly muted, contributing to an overall cohesive sound and feel throughout the typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus’s nylon bottom housing also supports a deeper sound but does so with a distinct roundness, again benefiting from nylon's inherent properties. This synthesis of materials ensures that while both switches deliver a satisfying bottom-out sound, the nature of that sound can vary significantly based on the specific materials used.
Ultimately, the primary differences in housing materials suggest divergent experiences when typing on each switch, even though they both aim to achieve deeper sound profiles. If one were to mix and match these top and bottom housings, the sound experience would inherently combine the individual qualities of POM and nylon, creating a hybrid switching feel. For example, a switch that utilizes POM for the bottom and nylon for the top could yield a nuanced sound that retains some of the muted qualities of POM while also embracing nylon's softer, fuller characteristics. Thus, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX Vintage Citrus may differ in composition, they share the potential for unique and satisfying auditory experiences rooted in their materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Smoothie Silver features an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Vintage Citrus requires a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams, making the Smoothie Silver the lighter option. However, the absence of a specified bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver makes a direct comparison challenging. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus has a measured bottom out force of 53 grams, classified as medium-light, indicating a firmer feel when fully depressed. This difference suggests that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Smoothie Silver, while those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke with a firmer bottom out may favor the Vintage Citrus. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for typing endurance versus feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Smoothie Silver the longer option, providing a slightly deeper feel when pressed, which some users may find more satisfying. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its 3 mm travel distance, caters to those who favor a more responsive and quicker actuation, often preferred by gamers for swift key presses. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you value a more pronounced depth or a snappier response in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver produces a thocky noise that many users find satisfying, contributing to a solid auditory feedback during typing or gaming sessions. This sound complements its overall design to create a pleasant experience, especially for those who appreciate a deeper, muted tonal quality. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch offers a bright, clacky sound profile that resonates with those who prefer a more distinct, higher-pitched auditory feedback. This difference in sound characteristics can significantly affect user experience; while the Smoothie Silver is suited for an immersive, focused environment, the Vintage Citrus appeals to gamers or typists who enjoy an engaging and lively auditory atmosphere.
When considering feel, the Smoothie Silver excels with its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light actuation force, making it a pleasure to type on for extended periods. The short travel distance allows for quick and responsive keystrokes, ensuring that every touch results in immediate engagement without feeling cumbersome. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch is designed for speed with its exceptionally low actuation point of just 1mm, enabling rapid-fire inputs essential in gaming scenarios. Despite the differences in actuation, both switches deliver impressive smoothness, allowing for a fluid typing experience that minimizes fatigue during long gaming sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Smoothie Silver’s thocky sound and velvety feel make it a strong contender for users who prioritize smoothness and subdued audio. Meanwhile, the Vintage Citrus, with its clacky sound and exceptionally low actuation force, is tailor-made for speed and responsiveness, ideal for competitive gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you favor a deeper auditory experience with plush feedback or a brighter sound profile geared towards rapid keystrokes. Both options are designed to elevate your typing or gaming experience in their own distinct ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and intended use. If you’re looking for a switch that allows for lightning-fast actuation with a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver is a fantastic option. Its POM construction ensures unparalleled smoothness, making it perfect for those who prioritize speed and a satisfying thocky sound while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you need a switch that is designed specifically for gaming and offers a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams with a bright, clacky sound profile, the Vintage Citrus is an excellent choice. Its quick 1mm actuation is ideal for rapid-fire inputs, giving you an edge in competitive scenarios. Thus, consider your tactile preferences—whether you favor a softer touch or need some resistance—and the types of activities you’ll engage in to make the best decision between these two impressive switches.
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