HMX Black Cat

Quick Summary

The HMX Black Cat is a medium-light tactile designed by Black Cat Studio, pairing a sharp, well-placed bump with a deliberately short travel. It actuates around 35g and bottoms out near 48g, with a tactile peak just above that, so the feedback reads as crisp rather than heavy. A modified PA12 top housing pushes the sound bright and clacky. It is a good pick for tactile fans who want a snappy switch without the bulk of a heavy bump.

Specs and Feel

This is a full tactile, and HMX keeps the linear travel before and after the bump to a minimum, so the switch feels almost entirely defined by its tactile event. Pre-travel is about 2.5mm into a short 3.0mm total stroke, so you reach the bump quickly and bottom out soon after. The bump itself is pronounced and clean, with a clear peak around 52g that gives each press a firm snap. Smoothness is good for a tactile: the hardened POM stem rides against the P3 nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, and the factory lube keeps scratch out of the picture. Wobble is well controlled in both axes. The main story is the sound: the PA12 top housing makes the Black Cat high-pitched, resonant and clacky compared to typical tactiles.

Tuning

There’s little left to do here. The factory lube on the leaf, stem legs and rails already delivers a clean, consistent feel, so most builders can run these stock. If you want to lean harder into the bright signature, a clacky plate and a board with minimal foam will amplify the PA12 resonance; conversely, foam and a poly plate will tame it. Films aren’t needed given the tight tolerances.

Verdict

The HMX Black Cat is a reasonable pick for anyone after a snappy, medium-light tactile. The short travel and high-set bump make it feel fast, and the bright PA12 acoustics set it apart from the usual muted tactiles. If you specifically want a deep, thocky tactile, look elsewhere: this one is clacky. For those who like a crisp bump and a bright sound, it is a buy.