HMX Vintage Citrus vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Vintage Citrus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Vintage Citrus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Vintage Citrus, designed specifically for gamers, features an impressively low actuation force of just 1mm, allowing for rapid key presses that can enhance performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Its bright, clacky sound profile and smooth push feel create an invigorating typing experience that many gamers find satisfying. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° prioritizes quiet elegance with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, resulting in a silky-smooth feel and muted sound that is perfect for those who prefer a stealthy typing experience, whether at home or in shared work environments. Both switches cater to linear key switch enthusiasts, yet they differ significantly in auditory feedback and tactile sensations. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing and gaming needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Vintage Citrus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a significant distinction lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Vintage Citrus features a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° uses a polycarbonate top housing, which introduces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer characteristics of polycarbonate contribute to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it particularly advantageous for users seeking a brighter acoustic response, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucent properties.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, share a common trait. Both the Vintage Citrus and the Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This uniformity in material ensures that while the top housings differ in acoustic contribution, the bottom-middle characteristics remain influenced predominantly by nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. As a result, both switches will offer a similar tactile experience and bottom-out sound, as the nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in how the switch feels during key presses.
Ultimately, the overall sound and feel experienced by a typist can be seen as a combination of both the top and bottom housings' materials. While the HMX Vintage Citrus leans towards a warmer sound due to its nylon top and bottom, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° provides a sharper and crisper response from its polycarbonate top, paired with a familiar nylon bottom. Thus, even with different top housing materials, both switches can produce a satisfying typing experience, appealing to different preferences while highlighting the importance of each housing's contribution to the overall switch performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch with its actuation force of 48 grams and bottom out force of 53 grams to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Vintage Citrus switch, with its medium-light feel, may appeal to users who appreciate a slightly more substantial typing experience, particularly given its higher bottom out force, which can provide a more tactile feedback when fully pressed down. Conversely, the Zero Degree switch, being lighter in terms of actuation force, may be a better option for those who prefer a softer touch, making it ideal for long typing sessions or intense gaming, where reduced fatigue is a priority. Since the bottom out force for the Zero Degree is unknown, it is challenging to determine its overall keypress feel compared to the Vintage Citrus. Overall, the Vintage Citrus switch is the heavier option, while the Gateron Zero Degree is the lighter choice, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Vintage Citrus featuring a shorter distance of 3 mm compared to the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Zero Degree switch. This 0.6 mm difference highlights a significant distinction in feel and responsiveness. For gamers who prioritize quick response times, the Vintage Citrus may be the better option due to its shallower travel distance, allowing for faster actuation. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree switch, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and a feeling of depth when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding the balance between responsiveness and a more pronounced keystroke experience.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are significant contrasts. The Vintage Citrus is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise on actuation, which can be described as crisp and percussive. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers seeking audibility in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° switch excels in creating a quieter typing experience, characterized by a low-pitched and muted sound. Its innovative self-padding design greatly minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it ideal for quieter environments or shared workspaces. Combining these features, if you prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Vintage Citrus will be your go-to, while the Zero Degree 0° will cater to those who prioritize a serene typing atmosphere.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the differences continue. The Vintage Citrus offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience, thanks to its responsiveness and moderate to firm actuation force. This creates an immersive sensation that can make rapid key presses feel satisfying and energetic, particularly beneficial for gaming enthusiasts who thrive on tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to provide a polished and subtle typing experience, offering smooth key travel with reduced friction. Its gentle feedback delivers a soft, elastic feel that is comforting for long typing sessions without being distracting. The choice here depends on personal preference; if you enjoy a more dynamic and tactile response, the Vintage Citrus is likely the better fit, while the Zero Degree caters to those seeking smoothness and a more understated touch.
Overall, both the HMX Vintage Citrus and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches present unique advantages tailored to different user preferences. The Vintage Citrus shines in sound and tactile feedback, embodying a lively and engaging experience, while the Zero Degree 0° stands out with its whisper-quiet operation and refined smoothness. Selecting between them ultimately hinges on whether one values vigorous auditory and tactile feedback or a smooth, muted typing experience. Either way, you can enjoy satisfying results based on what fits your gaming or typing style best.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific typing and gaming preferences. If you're a gamer who values speed and tactile feedback, the Vintage Citrus is an excellent option due to its low actuation force and snappy feel, allowing for rapid inputs in competitive scenarios. Its clacky sound profile adds an invigorating element to your gaming experience, enhancing the enjoyment of each keystroke. However, if you prefer a quiet, peacful environment, whether for work or shared spaces, the Zero Degree 0° might be your ideal choice. Its self-padding design ensures minimal sound while providing a smooth and subtle typing experience, perfect for those who need to maintain focus without disturbing others. Ultimately, consider the atmosphere in which you'll be using your keyboard and the type of feedback you enjoy the most to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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