HMX Gulf Switches
Best linear switch for enthusiasts seeking a poppy, substantial typing feel.
Experience the HMX Gulf Switches, a premium linear switch designed by BCKeys for a distinct typing feel. These switches offer a balanced and vibrant sound profile, enhanced by their PC top housing, P5 bottom housing, and T2 stem. With a satisfying actuation force of 50±2g and a bottom-out force of 58±2g, they provide a substantial typing experience. Pre-lubricated with GPL105 & GPL205 for immediate smoothness, each canister contains 70 switches, ensuring you have plenty for your keyboard build.
$24.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
200
/ 6542
#200 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
-44%
Below average
Switch Type
Linear
/ Linear
Who it's for
- Keyboard builders wanting a smooth experience without manual labor
- Enthusiasts seeking a deep and satisfying acoustic profile
- Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for premium performance and aesthetics
Who should skip it
- Typists sensitive to minor keycap movement and instability
- Perfectionists who demand silent, ping-free switch performance
- Mainstream consumers needing immediate, reliable product availability
Performance breakdown
Typing Smoothness
Factory lubrication provides a buttery, consistent feel right out of the canister.
Acoustic Profile
The poppy, vibrant sound signature delivers a satisfyingly crisp typing experience.
Actuation Consistency
Precise engineering ensures a reliable and uniform feel across every single key.
Build Quality
Premium housing materials and high-grade components reflect expert design standards.
Spring Responsiveness
The extended spring offers a snappy, substantial return for active typists.
Installation Ease
Standard 5-pin PCB mounting makes keyboard assembly straightforward and hassle-free.
Key Specs
Switch Type
Linear
Top Housing
PC
Bottom Housing
P5
Stem
T2
Spring
21mm KOS single-stage extended
Total Travel
3.5±0.2mm
Actuation Force
50±2g
Bottom-out Force
58±2g
Features
- Linear switch with a poppy sound
- Balanced and vibrant sound signature
- Smooth typing with factory lubrication
- Designed by BCKeys for a unique feel
- Heavier spring for a substantial feel
- Lively top-out sound
- 5-pin PCB mount design
- Sold in convenient canisters of 70
What customers say
HMX Gulf Switches are highly praised within the mechanical keyboard community for their premium linear performance. Customers consistently highlight the exceptional factory lubrication, which delivers a remarkably smooth keystroke right out of the box, minimizing the need for modifications. The defining feature is the acoustic profile, frequently described as deep, creamy, and thocky, offering superior auditory feedback. Build quality is robust, ensuring minimal stem wobble and a stable typing feel. While priced above budget options, enthusiasts agree the superior smoothness and excellent sound justify the investment. The unique Gulf racing inspired design is also a significant aesthetic draw, making these switches a top-tier choice for serious hobbyists seeking premium quality and sound.
Know before you buy
Yes, the HMX Gulf switches feature a standard MX-style cross stem and a 5-pin PCB mount design, making them compatible with most hot-swappable mechanical keyboards.
With an actuation force of 50g and a bottom-out force of 58g, these switches offer a more substantial, deliberate feel than standard light linears. The 21mm extended spring provides a snappy return that adds to the overall tactile feedback.
No, these switches come pre-lubricated from the factory using a blend of GPL105 and GPL205. They are ready to install and use immediately out of the canister.
These switches are known for a 'poppy' and vibrant sound signature. The combination of the PC top housing and T2 stem creates a lively top-out sound that stands out compared to more muted linear switches.
Each canister contains 70 switches. If you are building a full-sized keyboard, you will likely need to purchase two canisters to cover all 104 keys.
The HMX Gulf switches have a total travel distance of 3.5±0.2mm. This is slightly shorter than the traditional 4.0mm travel found on many standard switches, contributing to a quicker, more responsive typing experience.
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$24