HMX SU vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the HMX SU 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, preferences can be as varied as the users themselves, especially in the case of the HMX SU and HMX Vintage Citrus switches, both linear offerings from HMX. The HMX SU is recognized for its sturdy PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a subtly deep sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a bit of auditory texture while typing. This switch provides a balanced and consistent feel, perfect for users who enjoy a smooth, linear response. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus is designed with gamers in mind, offering a remarkably low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for rapid, effortless key presses ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios. With its bright, clacky sound and invigorating snappy response, the Vintage Citrus appeals to those who crave a more dynamic auditory experience while gaming. Both switches cater to different needs and preferences, highlighting the diversity of linear switches available on the market. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
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 single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX SU and the HMX Vintage Citrus share a remarkable similarity in their switch housing materials, specifically in the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of material is pivotal as nylon is recognized as a classic in switch design due to its unique acoustic properties. Both switches are designed to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile that typists often appreciate. The inherent softness of nylon contributes to sound absorption, allowing the switches to produce a smoother and rounder auditory experience, which is consistent across both models.
When examining the performance of the HMX SU and the HMX Vintage Citrus, the impact of nylon on the sound characteristics becomes particularly significant. As both models utilize nylon for the top and bottom housings, they elicit nearly identical tactile and auditory experiences. The bottom housing primarily influences the key bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound profile upon key release. Since both models exhibit the same material composition, users can expect a similarly rich and satisfying feedback during typing, regardless of which switch they choose.
Despite the expected uniformity, the design context and potential tuning differences between the HMX SU and Vintage Citrus may still result in nuanced performance variations. While both employ nylon throughout, other design elements like spring tension or manufacturing tolerances could introduce subtle differences in feel or responsiveness. However, as far as the core housing material is concerned, both switches will produce comparable acoustic qualities, providing a sense of continuity and reliability for users who prioritize sound and feel in their typing experience. Thus, switching between the two should yield a familiar and consistent satisfaction in every keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the HMX SU linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX SU features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The difference in actuation force means that users who prefer a lighter touch will find the SU switch more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Vintage Citrus may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial key feel. As both switches require relatively close forces to actuate and bottom out, users can expect a somewhat similar experience, albeit with the SU offering a softer feedback sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX SU linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, we find that the SU has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Vintage Citrus measures at 3 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the shorter option, catering to users who prefer quicker response times often sought after by gamers. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced keypress that some users appreciate for its more substantial feel and feedback. Therefore, those who enjoy a more tactile experience may favor the SU over the Vintage Citrus, while gamers or those seeking a snappier performance might opt for the latter. Overall, the difference in travel distance suggests that users should consider their personal preferences when choosing between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 HMX SU linear switch is noted for its subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, providing a more muted acoustic experience compared to many other switches. This contrast sets it apart from the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, which features a bright and clacky sound profile. The clacky nature of the Vintage Citrus produces a sharp and snappy sound upon keystrokes, creating an engaging auditory feedback that is especially appealing for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Keep in mind, however, that the overall sound output can vary based on the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When discussing feel, the HMX SU's characteristics haven't been explicitly detailed, but by comparing it to the Vintage Citrus, we can infer a distinction in user experience. The Vintage Citrus switch is designed to be exceptionally responsive, with an invigorating feel that offers pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. This setup makes each keystroke feel snappy and reactive, contributing to a lively typing experience. The SU's feel may share some linear qualities, allowing for smooth actuation, but the exact sensation cannot be confirmed without further details.
Overall, the HMX SU linear switch offers a more subdued auditory experience, while the Vintage Citrus switch excels in both sound and tactile feedback, making it particularly suitable for gamers who prioritize rapid actuation and auditory stimulation. While both switches may have their unique qualities, they cater to different preferences, emphasizing the importance of personal choice when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch that best fits your typing or gaming style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX SU linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences in terms of typing experience and usage. If you prefer a lighter actuation with a subtle and deep sound profile, the HMX SU is an excellent choice, particularly for tasks that require a balanced approach between typing and gaming. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it easier to press, allowing for a more relaxed yet satisfying feel during extended use. On the other hand, if you are primarily a gamer looking for a switch that can keep up with rapid-fire inputs, the HMX Vintage Citrus is tailored for that purpose, thanks to its low 1mm actuation point and 53-gram bottom-out force. This switch not only offers a bright and clacky sound profile but also provides a snappy and invigorating feel that enhances your overall gaming experience. In essence, choose the SU for a more versatile, gentle typing experience and go for the Vintage Citrus if speed and responsiveness are your top priorities.
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