The HMX Retro J and BSUN Ocean switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the tactile breed. They both feature PC top housing, standard stem shape, - g , - mm , however, they come with different bottom housing (Nylon PA66 vs Nylon), stem material (POM vs LY), actuation (36 g vs 40 g), bottom-out force (55 g vs 57 g), pre-travel (2.50 mm vs 2 mm), total travel (3 mm vs 3.30 mm). That said, they are only slightly 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 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. | The BSUN Ocean is a tactile standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and LY stem (standard shape). The 40g actuation occurs at 2mm. The 57g bottom-out occurs at 3.30mm. Sparkly top housing. Factory lubing? Yes! Manufactured by BSUN. |
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| Name | HMX Retro J | BSUN Ocean |
|---|---|---|
| Type | tactile | tactile |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | PC | PC |
| Bottom housing | Nylon PA66 | Nylon |
| Stem material | POM | LY |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | single-stage extended KOS | - |
| Tactile force | - g | - g |
| Actuation | 36 g | 40 g |
| Bottom-out | 55 g | 57 g |
| Tactile bump position | - mm | - mm |
| Pre-travel | 2.50 mm | 2 mm |
| Total travel | 3 mm | 3.30 mm |
| Lube | 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. | Factory lubing? Yes! |
| Designer | HMX | - |
| Manufacturer | HMX | BSUN |
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 BSUN Ocean is also available in stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering HMX Retro J and BSUN Ocean 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!
HMX Retro J sound test | BSUN Ocean sound test |
No HMX Retro J sound test available. |
Comments on HMX Retro J switches | Comments on BSUN Ocean switches |
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. | The BSUN Ocean tactile switches are a top-tier choice for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a crisp tactile feel paired with a distinctive sound profile. These switches blend innovative materials with a thoughtfully engineered design that delivers both performance and style. Similar to the Gateron Type R, these switches offer a purely tactile typing feel with no linear travel – Monacokeys. |
