HMX Sunset Gleam Linear Switch
Best linear switch for typists who prefer a light, smooth feel.
Experience a superior typing journey with the HMX Sunset Gleam Linear Switches. Sold in packs of 10, these mechanical switches deliver a remarkably smooth linear actuation, requiring a light 42g of force. Constructed with a durable PC top housing, PA66 bottom housing, and an LY Stem, they are designed for effortless PCB mounting with 5 pins. Elevate your keyboard's feel and sound with optional professional hand-lubing and filming services for an immediate performance upgrade.
$12.60
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
200
/ 6542
#200 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
-71%
Below average
Type
Linear
/ Linear
Who it's for
- Keyboard enthusiasts wanting a premium feel without manual labor
- Typists seeking a deep, resonant sound profile for their desk
- Custom builders looking for vibrant colors to match their aesthetic
Who should skip it
- Shoppers needing immediate delivery from local or mainstream retailers
- Typists preferring extremely light or heavy actuation forces
- Precision-focused users who demand absolute stem stability while typing
Performance breakdown
Actuation Smoothness
The LY stem delivers a buttery, friction-free keystroke right out of box.
Typing Effort
Light 42g actuation makes long typing sessions feel effortless and fatigue-free.
Build Integrity
PC and PA66 housing combination provides a sturdy, reliable structural foundation.
Acoustic Profile
Crisp, clean sound signature that benefits significantly from professional hand-lubing.
Installation Versatility
Standard 5-pin design ensures a stable, wobble-free fit on most PCBs.
Customization Potential
Highly responsive to aftermarket lubing and filming for enthusiast-grade performance.
Key Specs
Type
Linear
Actuation force
42g
Bottom out force
48g
Total travel
3.5mm
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Top housing material
PC
Bottom housing material
PA66
Stem
LY Stem
Features
- Exceptionally smooth linear typing feel
- Optional professional lubing and filming
- Durable PC and PA66 housing
- Designed for PCB mounting (5-pin)
- LY Stem for enhanced performance
- Light 42g actuation force
- Sold in convenient packs of 10
What customers say
The HMX Sunset Gleam Linear Switch is highly praised for its exceptional out of box smoothness, largely due to excellent factory lubrication. This ready to use quality is a significant driver of satisfaction and perceived value. Users consistently highlight the deep, satisfying sound profile, often described as creamy or thocky, resulting from quality material choices. The unique sunset colorway also appeals to builders seeking cohesive aesthetics. While a few users prefer a heavier spring, the consensus confirms outstanding build quality and minimal stem wobble. This switch offers a high performance, visually appealing linear experience, making it a top recommendation for both new and experienced keyboard enthusiasts seeking premium feel without excessive modification.
Know before you buy
The 42g actuation force is considered light, making these switches ideal for fast typists or gamers who prefer a responsive, low-effort feel. Because they are linear, you will experience a consistent, smooth resistance from the start of the press to the bottom-out point.
These are standard MX-style switches, meaning they are compatible with most hot-swappable mechanical keyboards. Since they feature a 5-pin design, they are best suited for boards that support PCB-mount switches, though they can also be used in 3-pin boards if you clip the two extra plastic legs.
The LY stem is known for its low-friction properties, which contributes to the exceptionally smooth travel of the Sunset Gleam switch. This material helps reduce scratchiness, resulting in a cleaner, more refined typing experience compared to standard plastic stems.
Hand-lubing and filming are recommended if you want to eliminate minor spring ping and housing rattle right out of the box. While the switches are high-quality on their own, these services provide a more consistent sound profile and a smoother feel without you having to perform the labor yourself.
Since these are sold in packs of 10, you will need to calculate the total based on your keyboard layout. A standard full-size keyboard typically requires 104 switches, while a 65% or 75% board usually requires between 68 and 84 switches.
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