HMX Vintage Citrus vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Vintage Citrus and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often weigh their options based on performance, sound profile, and tactile feel. The HMX Vintage Citrus and HMX Xinhai both showcase linear designs, yet they cater to different preferences and gaming needs. The Vintage Citrus is engineered for high-speed action, featuring an incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm, making it the go-to choice for gamers who prioritize rapid key presses and a stimulating auditory experience with its bright, clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Xinhai switch marries subtle sophistication with precise performance, boasting a unique PA12 top housing that yields a softer acoustic profile and a POM stem that produced a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Vintage Citrus exudes an invigorating flair perfect for fast-paced gaming, the Xinhai appeals to those seeking a more refined typing experience that still delivers on the signature clacky feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Vintage Citrus and the HMX Xinhai, it becomes clear that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This similarity in material choice fosters a consistent auditory experience across both models. Nylon, known for its softer plastic properties, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, reducing harshness and reverb compared to harder plastics. As both switches employ nylon, users can expect a similarly duller and rounder sound when typing, enhancing their typing experience with an unmistakable warmth and pleasant acoustic feedback.
In the case of both the Vintage Citrus and the Xinhai, the impact of the nylon housing on the overall switch performance is profound. Since both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, there's a sense of uniformity in the way sound is absorbed and produced. The bottom housing primarily contributes to the sound produced when bottoming out a key, while the top housing influences the sound profile during key release. Given that both models are made of the same material, users will experience a cohesive sound signature during both the key press and release phases, emphasizing the full tonal potential of the nylon construction.
While the switches may share the same material characteristics, the nuances between them could still manifest in subtle ways. For instance, the design of each switch may influence the overall feel and sound dynamics despite the uniformity in material. Even slight variations in stem design or internal mechanism may lead to differentiated user experiences, which should be considered when making a choice between the two. However, the fundamental similarity in housing material means that regardless of these differences, both the Vintage Citrus and the Xinhai will achieve a comparable acoustic profile, giving users confidence in their selection without compromising on sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Vintage Citrus features an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom-out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Xinhai switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Xinhai the lighter of the two switches, which can be advantageous for users seeking a more effortless typing experience or longer gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Vintage Citrus may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the user's preference for weight and feel, as the lighter Xinhai will provide a softer touch, while the Vintage Citrus offers a more pronounced resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Vintage Citrus and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, a notable difference emerges. The Vintage Citrus switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Xinhai switch has a longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This 0.4 mm difference reflects a trend where shorter travel distances, like that of the Vintage Citrus, are preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times, allowing for a more responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Xinhai’s longer travel distance might appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper press, which can feel less abrupt and more satisfying for general use. Therefore, if you lean towards responsiveness, the Vintage Citrus would be the better choice, while the Xinhai would be suitable for those who appreciate a fuller keystroke.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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, both the HMX Vintage Citrus and the HMX Xinhai linear switches are classified as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy auditory response with each keystroke. The Vintage Citrus is particularly noted for its bright, percussive sound profile, which adds an exhilarating audio element to gaming and typing experiences. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch also offers crisp and bright sound characteristics, albeit with a slightly softer acoustics profile due to its unique PA12 top housing, which ultimately allows for a more refined and elegant auditory experience. Both switches, despite their nuances, will likely deliver a similar clacky sound, influenced by factors such as keycap choices and keyboard construction.
In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches become more pronounced. The Vintage Citrus is designed to provide a snappy and invigorating sensation, featuring longer or dual-staged springs that enhance the responsiveness and make the typing experience feel alive and immersive. This switch's pronounced feedback can help gamers achieve rapid inputs with confidence. In contrast, the Xinhai switch excels in a different direction, offering a bouncy and creamy feel that exudes a smooth and almost elastic typing experience. With a lively rebound and buttery glide, the Xinhai allows for effortless keystrokes, promoting comfort during extended typing sessions. These distinct tactile sensations contribute to the overall typing experience and may appeal to different user preferences.
In summary, while both the HMX Vintage Citrus and HMX Xinhai switches share a similar clacky sound profile, their feel diverges significantly, with the Vintage Citrus emphasizing snappy responsiveness and the Xinhai offering a bouncier, smoother experience. Depending on individual preferences and use cases, such as gaming versus general typing, both switches can cater to specific needs while providing a gratifying auditory experience. Choosing between the two will ultimately come down to whether one desires a more reactive or a silkier touch in their mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are a gamer who prioritizes rapid action and a more snappy feel, the Vintage Citrus with its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams is a great fit. Its design allows for an impressive low actuation force of just 1mm, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios where quick reflexes matter. The clackiness of its sound, combined with a responsive and invigorating feel, can elevate your gaming experience, giving you that satisfying feedback during intense sessions. On the other hand, if your typing style leans towards a more relaxed and refined experience, the Xinhai switch is tailored for you. With a lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, it offers a bouncy and creamy typing sensation that is perfect for those who enjoy a softer touch. Its unique PA12 top housing provides a subtler acoustic profile, making it an excellent choice for both casual typing and a sophisticated ambiance. In conclusion, select the Vintage Citrus for an energizing and responsive gaming setup, while the Xinhai is your go-to for a smoother, elegant typing experience.
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