HMX Joker Linear Switch (x35 box)

Classic Clacky P3 Linear (3.5mm Travel)

This linear mechanical switch is designed for users who prefer an exceptionally smooth key movement with a distinct, clacky sound. It is ideal for typists and keyboard enthusiasts looking for a return to the classic HMX sound profile, characterized by sharp clicks upon full key press and release. This model is less suitable for those seeking completely silent operation or tactile feedback.

Feel and Sound

• Pure Linear Travel: The switch offers a completely linear travel without any tactile "bump" or physical interruption, ensuring a smooth keypress.

• Classic Clacky Acoustics: The sound profile is distinctly clacky, thanks to the housing made entirely from P3 plastic and the high-quality POM stem, which accentuate the sound during both bottom-out and top-out.

• Sharp and Defined Sound: The sound is sharper and more clearly defined compared to newer HMX molds, which produce louder and deeper tones.

Actuation and Characteristics

• Balanced Pressure: The moderate operating force of approximately 45g offers an excellent balance between too light and too stiff a feel under the fingers.

• Standard Travel: A pre-travel of 2.0 mm and a total travel of nearly 3.5 mm provide standard travel distances for linear switches.

• Informative Finish: The bottom-out force is slightly higher than the actuation force, contributing to clear physical feedback upon completing the stroke.

Build Quality

• All P3 Housing: The upper and lower housing parts are made entirely from specialized P3 plastic, which directly influences the specific sound and ensures high durability.

• Smooth POM Stem: The stem is made of POM material, widely preferred in clacky switches for its excellent acoustic properties and low friction.

• Precise KOS Spring: Equipped with a 22mm single-stage extended KOS spring, which significantly impacts the correct force curve and keypress feel.

• Professional Lubricant Mix: Factory lubrication is done with a mix of GPL105 and GPL205 on critical areas, successfully eliminating initial scratchiness and enhancing stroke smoothness.

What to Consider (Potential Trade-offs)

• The distinct clacky sound may be too loud and distracting in a completely quiet office environment or shared workspaces.

• The purely linear design lacks a tactile bump, which some users find less engaging during intense typing.

• Detailed data is lacking regarding the switch's compatibility with Hot-Swap sockets or LED backlighting, as well as its potential for additional manual modifications beyond factory lubrication.

Switch Type: Linear

Designer: 80 Retros

Manufacturer: HMX

Stem material: POM

Top Housing: P3

Bottom Housing: P3

Operating Force: 45±2g

Bottom-out Force: 50±2g

Pre-travel: 2.0mm

Total Travel: 3.5±0.2mm

Spring: 22mm KOS single-stage extended

Factory Lubed: Yes! mixed GPL105&GPL205 on leaf spring, stem feet, and bottom housing rails.