The Kinetic Labs Hippo and Tecsee Zaku switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the linear breed. They both feature Nylon bottom housing, standard stem shape, - g actuation, 63.5 g bottom-out force, - mm pre-travel, - mm total travel, however, they come with different top housing (Nylon vs PC), stem material (UHMWPE vs POM), spring (15.2 mm vs stainless steel double). 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 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 Tecsee Zaku is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and POM stem (standard shape). It features a stainless steel double spring. The bottom-out weight is 63.5g. Lubing: Both lubed and dry options available. Designed by Bolsa Supply. Manufactured by Tecsee. |
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| Name | Kinetic Labs Hippo | Tecsee Zaku |
|---|---|---|
| Type | linear | linear |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | Nylon | PC |
| Bottom housing | Nylon | Nylon |
| Stem material | UHMWPE | POM |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | 15.2 mm | stainless steel double |
| Actuation | - g | - g |
| Bottom-out | 63.5 g | 63.5 g |
| Pre-travel | - mm | - mm |
| Total travel | - mm | - mm |
| Lube | No factory lubing. | Lubing: Both lubed and dry options available. |
| Designer | Kinetic Labs | Bolsa Supply |
| 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 Tecsee Zaku can be found in 1 stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering Kinetic Labs Hippo and Tecsee Zaku 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 Tecsee Zaku 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. | The name and colorway is inspired off the Gundam Suit MS-06R-1A Zaku II piloted by Shin Matsunaga which is one of Bolsa's favorite Gunpla models. |
