The Kinetic Labs Hippo and Ashkeebs Alexandrite switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the linear breed. They both feature Nylon bottom housing, standard stem shape, - g actuation, - mm pre-travel, - mm total travel, however, they come with different top housing (Nylon vs HPE), stem material (UHMWPE vs UPE), bottom-out force (63.5 g vs 58 g). 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 Kinetic Labs Hippo is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with Nylon top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and UHMWPE stem (standard shape). It features a 15.2 mm spring. The bottom-out weight is 63.5g. No factory lubing. Designed by Kinetic Labs. Manufactured by Gateron. | The Ashkeebs Alexandrite is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with HPE top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and UPE stem (standard shape). The bottom-out weight is 58g. Designed by Ashkeebs. Manufactured by Tecsee. |
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| Name | Kinetic Labs Hippo | Ashkeebs Alexandrite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | linear | linear |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | Nylon | HPE |
| Bottom housing | Nylon | Nylon |
| Stem material | UHMWPE | UPE |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | 15.2 mm | - |
| Actuation | - g | - g |
| Bottom-out | 63.5 g | 58 g |
| Pre-travel | - mm | - mm |
| Total travel | - mm | - mm |
| Lube | No factory lubing. | unknown |
| Designer | Kinetic Labs | Ashkeebs |
| Manufacturer | Gateron | Tecsee |
By tracking prices and in-stock status of 30+ well-known keyboard stores worldwide, we can state that the Kinetic Labs Hippo is not available at the moment, while the Ashkeebs Alexandrite can be found in 1 stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering Kinetic Labs Hippo and Ashkeebs Alexandrite 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 Kinetic Labs Hippo switches | Comments on Ashkeebs Alexandrite switches |
The first ever UHMWPE stem from Gateron. Even unlubed, the stem is extremely smooth in its stock form. 63.5g spring provides a bouncy upstroke that will keep you typing comfortably for hours. It's not all about the feel, Nylon housings provide a pleasant "thocky" sound signature while typing. Gateron Hippo switches use an ultra smooth UHMWPE stem (the first time the material is used by Gateron). UHMWPE is short for Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, and it has a lower coefficient of friction when compared to other plastics, such as POM. What this ultimately means is that the material used in the stem of this switch produces less friction when compared to other switches – Kinetic Labs. | Ashkeebs's third switch that they brought to the world! Just like with their Amethyst and Auralite switches, the Alexandrite continues their gemstone theme that start with the letter A – switchoddities. The Alexandrite linear switch is aimed at mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, modding-friendly system with a good sound profile. The switch design features a housing with an HPE upper and a nylon lower part, combined with a long-pole stem that reduces stem wobble and provides a solid typing feel. The spring is relatively light at approximately 58g, giving the switch a balanced feel between responsiveness and spring tension. The sound is described as "thhocky" and deep, making it attractive for builds focused on sound and tactile feedback. The switch is particularly suitable for keyboards where fine-tuning, sound modification (e.g., lubing, filming) and individual setup are important – InputGear. |
