The HMX x EILAB West Cowboy and HMX Hibiscus switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the linear breed. They both feature PA12 top housing, standard stem shape, 42 g actuation, 48 g bottom-out force, 2 mm pre-travel, 3.50 mm total travel, however, they come with different bottom housing (P2 vs PA66), stem material (T5 vs T3), spring (22 mm vs 20 mm KOS single-stage extended). That said, they are very 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 x EILAB West Cowboy is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with PA12 top housing, P2 bottom housing, and T5 stem (standard shape). It features a 22 mm spring. The 42g actuation occurs at 2mm. The 48g bottom-out occurs at 3.50mm. Orders of 90 switches come in bottle packaging. Designed by EILAB. Manufactured by HMX. | The HMX Hibiscus is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with PA12 top housing, PA66 bottom housing, and T3 stem (standard shape). It features a 20 mm KOS single-stage extended spring. The 42g actuation occurs at 2mm. The 48g bottom-out occurs at 3.50mm. Factory lubing? Yes! Designed by Soulcat X SPM. Manufactured by HMX. |
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| Name | HMX x EILAB West Cowboy | HMX Hibiscus |
|---|---|---|
| Type | linear | linear |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | PA12 | PA12 |
| Bottom housing | P2 | PA66 |
| Stem material | T5 | T3 |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | 22 mm | 20 mm KOS single-stage extended |
| Actuation | 42 g | 42 g |
| Bottom-out | 48 g | 48 g |
| Pre-travel | 2 mm | 2 mm |
| Total travel | 3.50 mm | 3.50 mm |
| Lube | unknown | Factory lubing? Yes! Mixed GPL105&GPL205 on leaf spring, stem feet, and bottom housing rails. Dry film lube on springs |
| Designer | EILAB | Soulcat X SPM |
| Manufacturer | HMX | HMX |
By tracking prices and in-stock status of 30+ well-known keyboard stores worldwide, we can state that the HMX x EILAB West Cowboy is not available at the moment, while the HMX Hibiscus can be found in 2 stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering HMX x EILAB West Cowboy and HMX Hibiscus 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 x EILAB West Cowboy sound test | HMX Hibiscus sound test |
No HMX Hibiscus sound test available. |
Comments on HMX x EILAB West Cowboy switches | Comments on HMX Hibiscus switches |
The HMX x EILAB West Cowboy Linear Switch offers an ultra-smooth typing experience with a rich, deep thocky sound. Designed with HMX’s latest mold adjustments, this switch maintains a wobble-free feel while eliminating any potential stickiness at the top of the keypress. The West Cowboy ensures a consistently smooth and satisfying feel, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking both performance and sound. The HMX x EILAB West Cowboy Linear Switch delivers a deep and creamy bottom-out with a soft yet poppy top-out. Compared to the HMX Hibiscus and HMX Caramel Pudding switches, which were already known for their lower-pitched sound profiles, the West Cowboy takes it even further with an even deeper pitch and fuller bottom-out sound. Traditionally, HMX switches were recognized for their high-pitched and clacky sound profiles. However, the HMX x EILAB West Cowboy is part of a new generation of HMX switches, designed with updated molds and materials to achieve a thocky, full-bodied sound. If you’ve been searching for an HMX switch that truly delivers on depth, richness, and thock, the West Cowboy is the perfect choice – Lume Keebs. | HMX Hibiscus switches come with a T3 stem, PA12 top housing, and PA66 bottom housing. Spec-wise, it is a bit similar to the Canglan V2 and EVA switches which are one of the deepest and most thocky HMX switches. We are not sure what the T3 stem is made of nor its formula, but based on the sound comparison to Canglan V2 and EVA, the T3 stem makes them sound a bit deeper and quieter than both Canglan V2 and EVA switches. In the meantime, they still come with that signature HMX clack and solid bottom out sound – Unikeys. |
