Gateron Type S vs. HMX Vintage Citrus

Overview

When it comes to elevating your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switches plays a crucial role in achieving the desired balance between performance and comfort. The Gateron Type S, a flagship offering from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" series, is revered for its 65g bottom-out weight and neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a slightly heavier keystroke and a balanced sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is tailored specifically for gamers, boasting an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for rapid-fire key inputs, paired with a bright and clacky sound that invigorates the typing experience. While the Type S excels in providing a stable and satisfying typing rhythm, the Vintage Citrus shines in delivering speed and responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Type S Linear

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$4.70 per 10

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Gateron Type S and HMX Vintage Citrus switches utilize nylon as their housing material, which is a hallmark in the switch industry for its performance characteristics. The nylon top housing in both switches contributes to a fuller, deeper sound profile, a quality that enthusiasts often seek in their mechanical keyboards. This is due to nylon’s relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics, which helps to absorb sound rather than amplify it. As a result, users of both the Type S and Vintage Citrus switches can expect a similarly satisfying auditory experience, marked by a duller and more rounded sound when typing.

Examining the nylon bottom housing of both the Type S and Vintage Citrus switches reveals that they maintain this consistency in sound quality further down the actuation. The nylon bottom aids in the same way as the top housing, absorbing sounds during the bottom-out phase of pressing a key. This strengthens the overall acoustic profile of the switch, ensuring that both switches minimize harsh noises that can occur from bottoming out, thus enhancing the typing experience across both models. Consequently, this choice of material means that both switches will provide comparable auditory feedback and sensitivity, making them appealing choices for users prioritizing sound quality in their keyboard setup.

While both switches share the same housing materials, the impact of these materials extends beyond mere acoustics. The interaction between the top and bottom housings contributes to the overall typing feel—where the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sensation while the top housing influences the release sound. Because both the Gateron Type S and HMX Vintage Citrus switches feature identical nylon characteristics across their housings, users can anticipate a harmonious typing feel and sound experience. Therefore, the similarities in material selection result in comparable auditory and tactile sensations, solidifying the appeal of both switches for those seeking a refined typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Type S linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Type S features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, which may be ideal for users who favor a more substantial push feel when typing. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and appealing to those who type for extended periods or seek a softer keystroke. This means that the Type S is the heavier option, while the Vintage Citrus is the lighter one. Overall, users who prefer a stronger tactile experience may lean towards the Type S, while those looking for comfort and ease of use during longer sessions might opt for the Vintage Citrus, as their differing forces deliver distinctly different typing experiences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Type S linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Type S features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This means that the Type S provides a more traditional and deeper feel, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying keystroke. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus, with its shallower travel distance, is likely to appeal to gamers or those who favor a quicker response time, as it requires less movement for actuation. Therefore, if you're inclined towards a switch that delivers a more robust depth, the Gateron Type S would be the better choice, whereas for a snappier, more immediate feel, the HMX Vintage Citrus would suit you well. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding key travel depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Type S switch offers a more neutral acoustic experience. Its sound signature strikes a pleasing balance, leaning toward a deeper tone that is suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office. This makes it versatile for both casual typing and more intense gaming sessions, without being overly distracting. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is characterized by its bright, clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy auditory feedback upon actuation. This can add a layer of excitement for users, particularly gamers who thrive on rapid-fire inputs, though it may not be as suitable for quieter environments due to its crisper sound.

In terms of feel, the Type S switch is designed with a heavier bottom-out force of 65g, which provides a satisfying weightiness for typists who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. The feel is intended to be smooth, although specific descriptors were not provided. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch is known for its snappy and invigorating feel, making it exceedingly responsive. With a low actuation point of just 1mm and a design that encourages a quick, lively typing experience, it is particularly appealing to gamers who require rapid key presses. The pronounced feedback and reactive nature of the Vintage Citrus contribute to an engaging and immersive typing sensation.

In summary, while both the Gateron Type S and HMX Vintage Citrus switches cater to different preferences, they excel in their respective qualities. The Type S provides a deeper, neutral sound and a weightier feel for a more traditional typing experience, making it versatile for various tasks. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus offers a bright, clacky sound with a fast, responsive feel ideal for gaming. Depending on your typing style and intended usage, you can achieve either satisfying acoustic and tactile feedback with these switches, albeit through different sensory experiences.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Type S linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a keystroke that feels weighty and substantial, the Type S, with its 65g bottom-out force, will offer you a more deliberate typing experience, ideal for both work and casual use where comfort and sound balance are key. The Type S's neutral sound profile also makes it versatile, catering to beginners and advanced users alike without being overly noisy. On the other hand, if you are a gamer or someone who values speed and responsiveness, you might find the Vintage Citrus to be the better choice. With a bottom-out force of just 53 grams and an exceptionally low actuation distance of 1mm, this switch offers a snappy and invigorating feel, perfect for rapid-fire keystrokes. Its clacky sound profile will also appeal to those who enjoy an auditory feedback that enhances the gaming experience. Ultimately, assess the weight, sound, and tactile feedback that resonates with your typing or gaming style, and you will be well-equipped to make the right choice for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Type S Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more