80Retros x HMX Joker Switches
Best linear switches for enthusiasts seeking a distinct, clacky typing experience.
Experience the unique sound of the 80Retros x HMX Joker Switches, a collaboration designed for keyboard enthusiasts. These linear switches utilize HMX's original molds, featuring a full P3 housing and a POM stem to deliver a distinct, satisfying clacky sound profile. They come factory-lubed with a blend of GPL105 & GPL205 for a smooth typing experience right out of the box. Each order includes 35 switches conveniently packaged in canisters, ready for immediate installation on 5-pin PCBs for your custom keyboard build.
$12.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
200
/ 6541
#200 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
-72%
Below average
Switch Type
Linear
/ Linear
Who it's for
- Sound-focused hobbyists preferring a deep, satisfying acoustic profile
- Themed build enthusiasts seeking a bold, distinctive aesthetic
- Typists wanting premium smoothness without manual lubrication
Who should skip it
- Typists needing specific actuation forces beyond the stock weight
- Budget-conscious buyers wary of inflated secondary market pricing
- Minimalist builders requiring versatile, neutral color schemes
Performance breakdown
Acoustic Signature
Delivers a crisp, high-pitched clack that satisfies discerning enthusiasts.
Factory Lubrication
Expertly applied blend ensures buttery smoothness straight from the canister.
Typing Consistency
HMX manufacturing precision keeps every keystroke feeling uniform and reliable.
Build Material Quality
P3 housing and POM stem pairing offers exceptional durability and friction-free travel.
Installation Ease
Standard 5-pin design makes mounting onto custom PCBs a straightforward process.
Actuation Responsiveness
Light 45g force provides a snappy, agile feel for rapid typing.
Key Specs
Switch Type
Linear
Top Housing Material
P3
Bottom Housing Material
P3
Stem Material
POM
Actuation Force
45±2g
Bottom-out Force
50±2g
Total Travel
4.0±0.2mm
Mounting
5 pin (PCB Mount)
Features
- Distinct clacky sound profile
- Smooth linear typing feel
- Durable P3 housing
- Precise POM stem
- Factory-lubed for smoothness
- Ready for 5-pin PCBs
- Designed by 80 Retros
- Manufactured by HMX
What customers say
The 80Retros x HMX Joker Switches are highly praised for their exceptional out of box performance and striking design. Users immediately love the flawless purple and green aesthetic, which elevates any keyboard build. The core appeal lies in the superior smoothness and consistent factory lubrication, offering a ready to use premium experience. Reviewers consistently note a deep resonant sound profile that delivers a satisfying auditory experience. Stem and housing stability ensures a solid typing feel with minimal wobble. While these limited edition switches carry a premium price, most customers agree the combination of unique looks, top tier performance, and convenient factory tuning fully justifies the investment. They are strongly recommended for enthusiasts seeking both excellent form and function.
Know before you buy
These switches are designed for a distinct, clacky sound profile. The combination of the P3 housing and POM stem creates a crisp, high-pitched acoustic signature that stands out from standard linear switches.
No, they come factory-lubed with a blend of GPL105 and GPL205. They are ready to use straight out of the canister, providing a smooth typing experience without the need for additional manual lubrication.
The Joker switches are 5-pin PCB mount switches. While they are designed for 5-pin sockets, they can typically be used in 3-pin hot-swap boards if you clip the two plastic guide pins off the bottom, though this is a permanent modification.
They feature a light-to-medium actuation force of 45g and a bottom-out force of 50g, making them feel responsive and snappy. With a total travel distance of 4.0mm, they offer a standard, full-depth typing feel.
These are Cherry MX-style switches, meaning they are compatible with the vast majority of custom mechanical keyboards and keycap sets. As long as your keyboard supports MX-style switches, these will fit.
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$12