The CMM.Studio X Gateron Limbo and HMX Retro J switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the tactile breed. They both feature PC top housing, Nylon PA66 bottom housing, POM stem material, - g , - mm , however, they come with different stem shape (dustproof partial box vs standard), bottom-out force (63.5 g vs 55 g), pre-travel (1.50 mm vs 2.50 mm), total travel (3.50 mm vs 3 mm). That said, they are quite similar. Let's check out this side-by-side specs rundawn with details, availability -- and even current prices -- to figure out which one fits you the best!
The CMM.Studio X Gateron Limbo is a tactile standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, Nylon PA66 bottom housing, and POM stem (dustproof partial box shape). The actuation occurs at 1.50mm. The 63.5g bottom-out occurs at 3.50mm. Factory lubing? Yes! Designed by CMM.Studio. Manufactured by Gateron. | The HMX Retro J is a tactile standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, Nylon PA66 bottom housing, and POM stem (standard shape). It features a single-stage extended KOS spring. The 36g actuation occurs at 2.50mm. The 55g bottom-out occurs at 3mm. Factory lubing? Yes! Designed by HMX. Manufactured by HMX. |
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| Name | CMM.Studio X Gateron Limbo | HMX Retro J |
|---|---|---|
| Type | tactile | tactile |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | PC | PC |
| Bottom housing | Nylon PA66 | Nylon PA66 |
| Stem material | POM | POM |
| Stem shape | dustproof partial box | standard |
| Spring | - | single-stage extended KOS |
| Tactile force | - g | - g |
| Actuation | - g | 36 g |
| Bottom-out | 63.5 g | 55 g |
| Tactile bump position | - mm | - mm |
| Pre-travel | 1.50 mm | 2.50 mm |
| Total travel | 3.50 mm | 3 mm |
| Lube | Factory lubing? Yes! | Factory lubing? Yes! Stem legs and stem sliders are covered with a very thin coat of 205g0. The spring and leaf are lubed with dry film. |
| Designer | CMM.Studio | HMX |
| Manufacturer | Gateron | HMX |
By tracking prices and in-stock status of 30+ well-known keyboard stores worldwide, we can state that the HMX Retro J is much more widely available, but the CMM.Studio X Gateron Limbo is also available in stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering CMM.Studio X Gateron Limbo and HMX Retro J switches. When accepted, the prices indicated already include the discount - use the KBDNEWS coupon code at checkout to claim your saving!
Prices, discounts, and stock status are checked regularly; however, changes since the last update cannot be ruled out. Everything here is for informational purposes only. Check the product pages for the latest prices!
Comments on CMM.Studio X Gateron Limbo switches | Comments on HMX Retro J switches |
The CMM.Studio x Gateron Limbo switch is a high-quality, tactile switch characterized by a firm 65.5g bottom-out feel, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. Featuring a polycarbonate top body and a nylon PA66 bottom, it combines durability with a sleek aesthetic. The POM "kangaroo" stem ensures minimal stem wobble and a precise actuation feel, while factory lubrication provides a smoother typing experience right out of the box. Thanks to its 5-pin PCB mount, the Limbo is ideal for high-end custom builds with MX-compatible layouts – an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking a strong tactile experience – InputGear. | The HMX Retro J tactile switch features a loud and clacky sound profile. They are manufactured using HMX's newest tactile switch mold, which differentiates them from HMX's previous tactile switches such as Cilantro or Frog tactile switches. The Retro J tactile switch comes with minimal pre and post-travel. The tactile bump is rounded and close to a D shape – Unikeys. |
