HMX Dune
HMX Dune, formerly Sandstorm, is a medium 50g tactile with a rounded bump and smooth travel. A review of its feel, sound and whether it needs tuning.
How it feels
How it sounds
Full review
Quick Summary
HMX Dune is the switch that used to be called Sandstorm: a medium 50g tactile with a rounded bump and the smooth travel HMX is known for. It is a comfortable, even-handed tactile that suits typing without demanding anything special from you. If you want approachable tactility rather than a sharp, forceful bump, Dune is a sensible everyday pick.
Specs and Feel
Dune carries a slightly longer 2.3mm pre-travel into a relatively short 3.1mm total stroke, with 50g to actuate and 58g to bottom out. The POM stem in a polycarbonate top and PA66 nylon bottom housing keeps the surrounding linear travel smooth, so the bump stands out cleanly rather than getting lost in scratch. The bump itself is rounded and medium in strength, present and useful but not the kind of aggressive snap that fatigues your fingers. The PC-over-nylon housing gives a moderately full, slightly muted sound; the polycarbonate adds a little brightness while the nylon bottom keeps it from getting sharp.
Tuning
Dune is decent stock but rewards a little attention. Tactile switches are sensitive to lube placement (too much on the leg of the stem dulls the bump), so if you relube, keep it thin and stay off the tactile event. A light coat of 205g0 on the rails plus a spring bag smooths the travel without softening the bump. Films are optional. If the stock bump feels slightly hollow to you, that is usually a lube or housing-seat issue rather than the switch design, and a careful relube cleans it up.
Verdict
Buy Dune if you want a smooth, medium tactile with a friendly rounded bump and the HMX pedigree, especially at this price. It is a fine typing switch. If you want a stronger, more pronounced bump you will be happier with something P-shaped and heavier like HMX Firecracker; for a softer, almost-linear tactility, HMX Saru is the lighter option. Dune sits comfortably in the middle.
Frequently asked
Is HMX Dune the same as Sandstorm?
Yes. Dune is the renamed version of the switch formerly sold as Sandstorm, so reviews and impressions of Sandstorm apply here.
How strong is the tactile bump?
It is medium. With a 50g actuation rising to a 58g bottom-out and a fairly early bump, it reads as a rounded, usable tactility rather than an aggressive D-shaped snap.
Good for typing or gaming?
It leans toward typing. The clear tactile feedback and medium weight make it comfortable for long sessions, though it works fine for general use.
Compare HMX Dune against another switch
Stack specs, sound profiles, and feel side by side.