The HMX Retro KD200 and HMX x EILAB West Cowboy switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the linear breed. They both feature PA12 top housing, P2 bottom housing, standard stem shape, 2 mm pre-travel, 3.50 mm total travel, however, they come with different stem material (LY vs T5), spring (22 mm KOS single-stage extended vs 22 mm), actuation (45 g vs 42 g), bottom-out force (50 g vs 48 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 HMX Retro KD200 is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with PA12 top housing, P2 bottom housing, and LY stem (standard shape). It features a 22 mm KOS single-stage extended spring. The 45g actuation occurs at 2mm. The 50g bottom-out occurs at 3.50mm. Factory lubing? Yes! Designed by 80 Retros. Manufactured by HMX. | 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. |
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| Name | HMX Retro KD200 | HMX x EILAB West Cowboy |
|---|---|---|
| Type | linear | linear |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | PA12 | PA12 |
| Bottom housing | P2 | P2 |
| Stem material | LY | T5 |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | 22 mm KOS single-stage extended | 22 mm |
| Actuation | 45 g | 42 g |
| Bottom-out | 50 g | 48 g |
| Pre-travel | 2 mm | 2 mm |
| Total travel | 3.50 mm | 3.50 mm |
| Lube | Factory lubing? Yes! Mix of 105 and 205. | unknown |
| Designer | 80 Retros | EILAB |
| 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 Retro KD200 can be found in 2 stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering HMX Retro KD200 and HMX x EILAB West Cowboy 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 KD200 sound test | HMX x EILAB West Cowboy sound test |
No HMX Retro KD200 sound test available. |
Comments on HMX Retro KD200 switches | Comments on HMX x EILAB West Cowboy switches |
The KD200 is more clacky then the FJ400 and the Game1989 switch from the same series. Compared to other HMX switches, these tend to be a bit more muted. Shipping in a small box in the shape of a film roll container. These are the HMX Film switches, coming in three distinct models: KD200, FJ400, and Game 1989 Classic. KD200 stands out as the most high pitch clacky option among them, utilising HMX's latest stem and bottom housing molds for an enhanced typing experience akin to HMX Cheese switches. All three switches benefit from HMX's updated molds that have fixed the leaf tick and lubing issues – KeebzNCables. | 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. |
