If you’re a custom keyboard enthusiast chasing that perfect blend of classic sound and modern smoothness, the Cthulhu Switch from the HMX series deserves a spot on your radar. This unique linear switch marries the iconic crispy sound of old-school HMX switches with the sleek, smooth feel of the latest HMX iterations—creating an experience that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. Let’s dive deep into its build, feel, and sound to see if it’s the right pick for your next keyboard build.

Quick Glance: What Makes the Cthulhu Switch Stand Out?

• Switch Type: Crispy linear switch with a solid, tight feel

• Sound Profile: Returns to the classic old HMX crispy tone

• Feel: Close to the smoothness of new HMX switches

• Material: Mixed metal construction with a unique deep purple top cover

• Key Feel: Slight sandiness in the middle press, firm bottom-out with strong feedback

• Rebound Sound: Full and crisp, balancing the sharp bottom-out sound

• Recommendation: Suitable for most users (not ideal for those seeking extreme smoothness or stroke precision)

In-Depth Breakdown: Build, Feel & Sound

Appearance & Build Quality

The Cthulhu Switch features a high-quality mixed metal construction, consisting of a translucent deep purple PC top cover, a black modified foam stem, and a black nylon + glass fiber bottom case. The standout feature is undoubtedly the deep purple top cover—under light, it exhibits a striking reflective effect on both sides, giving the switch a mysterious and sophisticated look. Overall, the build quality is solid, with no loose parts or shoddy craftsmanship.

Press & Bottom-Out Experience

The initial press of the Cthulhu Switch doesn’t feel overly tight, but you’ll notice a slight, uneven sandiness during the stroke—this sandiness becomes a bit more pronounced in the middle. However, during normal typing rhythms, the overall feel remains smooth and consistent. When bottoming out, you’ll get a firm, snappy feedback with a strong confirmation, accompanied by a crisp, sharp bottom-out sound with a subtle reverb. It’s a satisfyingly tactile experience for those who love a bold, crispy tone.

Rebound & Sound Performance

The stem’s rebound feel is standard for linear switches, but the rebound sound is where the Cthulhu truly shines. It’s full, crisp, and well-rounded—perfectly balancing the sharpness of the bottom-out sound, so the overall audio doesn’t feel harsh or overly aggressive. During rapid, continuous presses, you might occasionally hear a faint extra crisp sound, but this is significantly improved compared to mixed stems in older models.

Lubrication & Compatibility

Upon disassembly, you’ll find that the stem is lubricated primarily on the side arms and feet, with grease also applied to key stress points on the top cover and bottom case—this ensures smooth operation and reduces friction. The switch is available in three different spring weights, and it performs stably with both large keys and stabilizers. It’s an excellent choice for most custom keyboard enthusiasts, except for those who demand extreme stroke smoothness (e.g., heavy typists or competitive gamers).

Final Verdict: Is the Cthulhu Switch Worth It?

The Cthulhu Switch successfully blends classic HMX sound with modern HMX feel, trading a slightly longer, firmer stroke for a unique crispy sound experience—and this trade-off is absolutely worth it. If you’re a keyboard lover who prioritizes sound character and can appreciate a solid, slightly sandy feel, the Cthulhu Switch is a strong contender for your next build.

Ready to elevate your keyboard’s sound and feel? Add the Cthulhu Switch to your cart today and experience the perfect mix of nostalgia and modern performance!