Gateron Hippo Linear is a linear mechanical switch from Gateron released in April 2021 with a 50 gf operating force and 2 mm pre-travel and 4 mm total travel.
Three focused profiles from published switch specifications. No overall score is generated because feel and use case are personal.
Measures actuation, travel, and force. Shorter, lighter movement favors speed. Advanced input features add capability.
Measures bump or click intensity. It uses feel type and tactile-force rise. Higher scores mean stronger feedback.
Measures published lifespan evidence. It uses documented construction details. It does not predict real-world reliability.
Gateron Hippo Linear
Gateron
Gateron
Kinetic Labs Collaboration
Pastel Lavender Stem & Light Purple Housing
April 6, 2021
Mechanical
Linear
MX
PCB Mount
35 ± 5 gf
50 ± 5 gf
63.5 ± 5 gf
2 ± 0.6 mm
4 ± 0.4 mm
No
No
No
Nylon
Nylon
UHMWPE
Cylindrical spring
15.20 mm
No
5
Gold-plated alloy
Editor's Note: The Gateron Hippo is a community favorite linear switch engineered in partnership with Kinetic Labs. Featuring full nylon housings and an ultra-smooth self-lubricating UHMWPE stem paired with a 63.5g bottom-out spring, it produces an unmistakably deep, resonant "thock" sound profile ideal for custom mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
A three-axis view of compatible-keyboard input capability, tactile profile, and published durability evidence. Missing evidence remains unavailable rather than being scored as zero.
Gaming capability, tactile intensity, and build durability (0 to 100)
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The Gateron Hippo Linear is a Mechanical switch from Gateron with a Linear feel, so its keypress character is primarily defined by that mechanism and feedback style.
The Gateron Hippo Linear has an operating force of 50 gf. That sits in the common middle range for everyday typing and gaming.
The Gateron Hippo Linear has a pre-travel of 2 mm. Shorter actuation distances usually feel quicker because the key registers earlier in the press.
The Gateron Hippo Linear has a total travel distance of 4 mm. Total travel describes the full stroke from rest to bottom-out.
The Gateron Hippo Linear is listed as 5-pin, MX keycap compatibility is unknown, and hot-swap compatibility is unknown. Always match the switch pins and keyboard PCB/socket before buying.
No. The Gateron Hippo Linear is listed as not factory lubed. Factory lubrication can affect out-of-box smoothness and sound, but its effect can vary with the keyboard build and keycaps.
The Gateron Hippo Linear lists top housing: Nylon, bottom housing: Nylon, stem: UHMWPE, contact: Gold-plated alloy. These parts influence feel, sound, wobble, and long-term switch consistency.
Disclaimer: Specs, pricing, and benchmarks are sourced from official manufacturer data and verified test results. While we strive for precision, product details and pricing may change. Comparigon may earn an affiliate commission on qualifying purchases.