HMX Twilight vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the HMX Twilight and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Twilight and HMX Vintage Citrus both stand out as compelling linear switch options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Twilight features an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, which not only results in a quieter operation but also retains the signature 'clacky' feel that many users love. This bouncy switch is great for those who appreciate a balanced typing experience with a bit of acoustic feedback. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is designed with gamers in mind, providing an incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm for lightning-fast responses, which is essential for rapid-fire inputs. With its bright, clacky sound profile and smooth operation, this invigorating switch is perfect for those who crave speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between the Twilight and Vintage Citrus depends on whether you prioritize a quieter, bouncy feel or a snappy, rapid response. 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
42g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Twilight and HMX Vintage Citrus both feature housings made entirely from nylon, resulting in a consistent sound profile and tactile experience across both models. The nylon material is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, contributing to a deeper and fuller acoustic signature when typing. This quality is apparent in both the top and bottom housings of the switches in each model. Consequently, users can expect a duller and rounder sound profile while enjoying a comfortable typing experience. In this respect, the two models create a similar auditory environment, making them attractive options for users seeking a muted typing sound.
Since both the HMX Twilight and HMX Vintage Citrus utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, there is a uniformity in the qualities brought to each switch. The synergistic effects of the nylon material manifest themselves in the sound dynamics; both the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out feel and sound, and the top housing, which affects the sound upon key release, contribute to an overall consistent performance. Therefore, regardless of the specific model, users can anticipate a harmonious balance between key feel and auditory feedback. This shared construction ensures that typists will receive a similar experience in terms of sound and elasticity, heightening the pleasure of mechanical typing.
However, it is worth noting that if there were differences in the housing materials between the two models, the overall typing experience could vary significantly. Different materials would impact the sound quality and feedback received at both the bottom and top of the switch. Since both the HMX Twilight and Vintage Citrus utilize nylon throughout, any potential differences in their performance would not stem from the housing material itself, but rather from other design elements such as switch actuation mechanisms or overall build quality. In summary, the identical use of nylon in both models guarantees a consistent typing dynamic, emphasizing the deep, full sound profiles that users can expect from these switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Twilight linear switch with the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Twilight switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier for users to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial feel during typing. This difference in weight may cater to varied preferences; the lighter Twilight is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier Vintage Citrus offers a more defined tactile experience. Thus, while both switches deviated in terms of force, the Twilight is the lighter option, appealing to those who favor a softer touch, whereas the Vintage Citrus suits individuals who appreciate a firmer key press.
Travel distance
The HMX Twilight linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Twilight measuring 3.85 mm and the Vintage Citrus at 3 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the shorter option, appealing to those who prioritize faster response times typically favored by gamers. In contrast, the Twilight's travel distance provides a more substantial feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a deeper keypress and a less abrupt experience. While both switches offer advantages according to user preferences, the Twilight's longer travel distance might be better suited for those who value a tactile depth, whereas the Vintage Citrus caters to those seeking a snappier performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Twilight linear switch is noted for its slightly quieter operation due to an extended 3.85mm travel distance, which helps to produce a soft, yet distinct clacky characteristic typical of HMX switches. This allows for a sound that smoothly marries subtlety with the crispness people often seek in typing experiences. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is renowned for its bright and clacky sound profile, designed specifically for gamers who appreciate a sharp and snappy sound when they strike the keys. This makes the Vintage Citrus more vibrant in audio feedback, ensuring that each keystroke is not only heard but felt. Together, the two switches offer differing auditory experiences that might influence a user’s choice depending on whether they desire quieter operation or a more pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX Twilight switch is characterized by its bouncy sensation, providing an elastic feedback that enhances the typing experience with a lively rebound upon each keystroke. This creates a delightful typing atmosphere that some users may find addictive, particularly for prolonged use. Meanwhile, the Vintage Citrus switch emphasizes a snappy and invigorating feel, characterized by its rapid actuation force and pronounced feedback. The design of the Vintage Citrus leads to an incredibly responsive experience, making it particularly appealing for gamers who thrive on speed and immediate feedback. Thus, while both switches provide engaging typing experiences, they differ significantly in their tactile sensations, catering to varying preferences.
In conclusion, both the HMX Twilight and HMX Vintage Citrus switches present unique qualities that may appeal to different users based on their sound and tactile preferences. While the Twilight offers a softer and bouncy feel with a quieter audio profile, the Vintage Citrus thrives on a bright, clacky sound and a snappy, invigorating touch aimed at gamers. Depending on your priorities in sound and feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience, though they cater to specific tastes that set them apart.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX Twilight and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches largely depends on your specific needs and preferences in typing and gaming. If you favor a lighter key feel that allows for smooth and easy typing along with a quieter yet still clacky experience, the Twilight is your go-to option. Its extended travel distance and bouncy feedback make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a livelier touch and a slightly softer bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you are a gamer or someone who prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the Vintage Citrus would be more suitable for you. With its exceptionally low actuation force and snappy feel, it excels in rapid-fire situations, offering an invigorating typing experience with a bright clacky sound that adds excitement to your gaming or typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prefer an elastic, bouncy feel or a snappy, responsive switch that caters to fast inputs.
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