Category: Gaming

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Survives 50 Pummeling Tests Before Display Breaks

    Nintendo Switch 2 Survives 50 Pummeling Tests Before Display Breaks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features fully replaceable Joy-Cons and improved dust resistance.
    2. The display is highly durable, able to withstand significant impact before showing damage.
    3. Extreme testing revealed that the display remained unharmed after multiple heavy blows.
    4. After extensive testing, the display did shatter, but the console was still able to restart and run games.
    5. The console is designed for durability, making it suitable for everyday use.

    A recent video by Zack Nelson from the YouTube channel JerryRigEverything has shown some interesting details about the new Nintendo Switch 2. The disassembly of the device revealed that the Joy-Cons are fully replaceable and that there are improvements in dust resistance. However, it seems Nintendo has made even more enhancements to the device’s durability.

    Display Durability

    In the video, Zack demonstrates how the Switch 2’s display can withstand significant impact before showing any signs of damage. He starts by removing the laminated screen protector that Nintendo advises users to keep on, as it helps contain shards of glass in case the display shatters. This protective film is quite hard to take off, which is why it’s recommended to leave it intact.

    Extreme Testing

    After removing the protective layer, Zack takes heavy pliers and starts hammering the display. Remarkably, even after 13 blows to the Joy-Cons, the display remains untouched. He continues the test, delivering 29 more hits, yet the screen shows no signs of scratches. This indicates that Nintendo has designed the display to be very durable, even without the screen protector.

    Final Results

    Eventually, after over 50 hard hits, the display finally shatters. The way it breaks shows that there is a thin layer of glass over the actual display. True to Nintendo’s warning, the glass breaks into sharp shards that could cause serious injuries. Despite the destruction, Zack was able to reassemble the console and power it back on. After an initial “black screen of death,” the Switch 2 restarted and ran games like Mario Kart World without any issues.

    Zack’s extreme testing might not reflect how regular users will treat their devices, but it demonstrates that the Switch 2 is built to withstand everyday wear and tear. It’s clear that this console is designed to last for quite a while.

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  • New Dark Fantasy Roguelite RTS Launches on Steam with Discount

    New Dark Fantasy Roguelite RTS Launches on Steam with Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Genre Blend: Wartorn combines RTS, roguelite, and ARPG elements, offering a fresh take on gameplay for the genre.

    2. Story of Two Sisters: The game follows sisters Yara and Elani on their quest to reach their homeland while using elemental powers against various threats.

    3. Fast-Paced Strategy: Combat requires real-time strategy skills, focusing on positioning, attack strategies, and troop morale management.

    4. Character Interaction and Progression: Players can meet characters from the sisters’ past, gaining new skills and items to enhance their military capabilities.

    5. Launch Discount: Wartorn is available at a 33% discount, priced at $20.09 on Steam until June 24.

    Every gamer knows that the Steam platform is filled with roguelite games, but Wartorn stands out by mixing various game genres for its debut. The game comes from Stray Kite Studios, which is led by experienced developers from major franchises like BioShock, Borderlands, and Age of Empires. Their diverse backgrounds really shine through in this first project.

    The Sisters’ Quest

    Wartorn tells the story of two sisters, Yara and Elani, as they navigate a war-ravaged continent to reach their family’s homeland. They plan to use elemental powers—fire, water, tar, plants, and lightning—to confront the rogue beasts and military forces they face on their journey. The game combines RTS, roguelite, and ARPG elements, emphasizing strategic thinking and tactical planning for each run. Your role is to gather and lead a variety of fantasy creatures to aid in your perilous adventure back home. You must position your forces, devise attack strategies, and create synergies to defeat your enemies, all while maintaining high morale among your troops.

    Fast-Paced Strategy and Progression

    Combat in Wartorn is quick and demands real-time strategy skills. Progression is not just about improving your caravan’s abilities but also involves meeting characters from Yara and Elani’s history. These characters help reveal the story and provide new skills and items to enhance your military power. Resource management is also integrated into the broader adventure, adding depth to the roguelite experience.

    So far, since Wartorn’s release, the game has received a generally favorable response. Steam reviews highlight the tough combat and satisfying learning curve. Many players appreciate the high quality and smooth integration of different genres and mechanics. Wartorn is strictly a single-player game, which means replayability relies on trying out different strategies and team setups. The game’s roguelite features and modest system requirements make it perfect for gaming on the go, especially on devices like the Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $699.99 on Lenovo US).

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  • Ayaneo Launches Pocket S2 and S2 Pro Gaming Handhelds from $439

    Ayaneo Launches Pocket S2 and S2 Pro Gaming Handhelds from $439

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo has launched the Pocket S2 globally, with funding through an Indiegogo campaign running until August 19.
    2. The Pocket S2 features a Qualcomm Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipset and a 6.3-inch, 1440p, 60 Hz IPS display with high brightness and color coverage.
    3. Enhanced controls include TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, haptic feedback, and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports.
    4. The Pocket S2 is priced starting at $439 on Indiegogo, with a high-end model costing $699 that offers additional RAM, storage, and features.
    5. Shipping for some units may start next month, but previous experiences suggest caution in expecting timely delivery.

    Ayaneo has launched the Pocket S2 worldwide, and it’s now being funded through an Indiegogo campaign. This campaign will run until August 19, and Ayaneo aims to start shipping some units as soon as next month. However, based on previous experiences and the lack of confirmed shipping plans, it might be wise to not expect Ayaneo to fully meet its July shipping promises.

    Upgraded Features

    The Pocket S2 replaces the Pocket S (which is currently priced at $589.99 on Amazon) and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipset offering up to 20 W of performance. This time around, Ayaneo has removed the 1080p display option. Consequently, all Pocket S2 models come with a 6.3-inch, 1440p, 60 Hz IPS display. To give some context, this display boasts a peak brightness of 600 nits and covers 90% of the DCI-P3 color space and 120% of the sRGB color space.

    Enhanced Controls

    Every version of the Pocket S2 is equipped with TMR joysticks and Hall effect triggers, alongside an x-axis linear motor designed for haptic feedback. Additionally, Ayaneo has included two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports for charging, data transfer, and DisplayPort Alt Mode, along with a microSD card reader placed on the bottom edge of a compact 228.8 x 91 x 15.9 mm body.

    At present, the Pocket S2 is available starting at $439 on Indiegogo, featuring 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. On the other hand, the highest-end model is priced at $699, which includes 16 GB of RAM, 1 TB of storage, special edition finishes, an 8-way d-pad, enhanced battery life, and faster charging capabilities. Below, you can find a comparison table highlighting the differences among Ayaneo’s three Pocket S2 models.

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    Ayaneo Launches Pocket S2 and S2 Pro Gaming Handhelds from $439

     

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  • Anbernic RG Slide Price, Release Date, and Launch Discount Revealed

    Anbernic RG Slide Price, Release Date, and Launch Discount Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RG Slide will be available for sale on June 20 at 10:00 UTC, in Black and White colors.
    2. Anbernic is offering an early bird discount of $10, reducing the price from $189.99 to $179.99 for the basic model.
    3. The basic version of the RG Slide does not come with a microSD card; optional cards are available for an extra cost ($15 for 128 GB, $30 for 256 GB).
    4. The RG Slide features a Unisoc T820 chipset and 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM, suitable for emulating most systems on its 120 Hz, 4.7-inch display.
    5. The RG Slide is a more compact version of the RG556, not the newer RG557, which retails for $339.99 on Amazon.

    Ayaneo has recently unveiled its newest premium Android gaming handheld. Interestingly, Anbernic has another similar device coming soon. Even though the company just launched the RG35XX Pro a little over a week ago, they are not slowing down.

    RG Slide Availability

    The RG Slide is set to go on sale on June 20 at 10:00 UTC, available in Black and White. As usual, Anbernic will provide an early bird discount for the initial days of the launch. This time, customers can enjoy a $10 price reduction, bringing the cost of the RG Slide down from $189.99 to $179.99 for the basic model.

    Pricing and Storage Options

    It’s important to note that the basic version does not include a microSD card. Instead, Anbernic offers a 128 GB microSD card for an extra $15 and a 256 GB card for an additional $30. In essence, the RG Slide is a more compact version of the RG556’s hardware, not the newer RG557, which is currently priced at $339.99 on Amazon. However, it features a Unisoc T820 chipset along with 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM, which should be sufficient to emulate most systems on the RG Slide’s 120 Hz, 4.7-inch display. For more information, you can visit Anbernic’s official website.

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    Anbernic RG Slide Price, Release Date, and Launch Discount RevealedAnbernic RG Slide Price, Release Date, and Launch Discount RevealedAnbernic RG Slide Price, Release Date, and Launch Discount RevealedAnbernic RG Slide Price, Release Date, and Launch Discount Revealed

     

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  • Next Xbox Console Price May Exceed $1,000

    Next Xbox Console Price May Exceed $1,000

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox consoles will use AMD SoCs and support multiple storefronts.
    2. A well-known leaker suggests the next Xbox could be priced over $1,000.
    3. Allowing multiple storefronts may lead to higher console prices due to loss of exclusivity.
    4. Consumers are divided; some see value in a $1,000 console if it can replace a PC.
    5. Official pricing information is not yet available, but speculation suggests a possible reveal in 2026.

    Microsoft has recently made the announcement that their upcoming Xbox consoles will utilize AMD SoCs. One particularly intriguing detail is that these consoles won’t be restricted to just one store, a feature that is also a key selling point for the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds. While this freedom sounds appealing, it’s likely to come with a high cost. A well-known leaker has suggested that the price of the next Xbox could exceed $1,000.

    Leaks from Kepler_L2

    Kepler_L2 is recognized for leaking information about SoCs and the processing power of upcoming gaming devices, including future PlayStation and Xbox consoles. In response to Xbox president Sarah Bond’s announcement, Kepler_L2 commented on X, noting that if Microsoft wants to support various storefronts on its primary gaming device, the console will need to be sold at a profit. The leaker ominously stated, “Prepare yourselves for the first console over $1000, guys.”

    The Price Dilemma

    Currently, Microsoft has not released any official information regarding the price of the next generation Xbox, but the leaker’s claim of a price tag over $1,000 may have some validity. Typically, consoles have limited and well-optimized functionalities, allowing manufacturers to produce SoCs at a lower cost compared to PCs. Consequently, companies such as Microsoft, Sony, and Valve can set lower prices for consoles, relying on game store exclusivity and subscription services (like Xbox and PlayStation).

    However, with Microsoft planning to allow multiple storefronts, they may lose exclusivity and possibly subscribers. To compensate for this, the base price of the console would need to be higher, which could lead to a significant increase in cost for consumers.

    Consumer Reactions

    Users commenting on Kepler_L2’s post seem to be open to the idea of a $1,000 console. Some express that if the console can replace their PC, it would be worth the price. Others argue that having multiple storefronts might encourage competitive pricing for games. As for the actual cost of the next Xbox, that’s still unknown. Recent speculation indicates that Microsoft might reveal the next Xbox as soon as 2026.

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  • This Week on Xbox Game Pass: 3 New Titles, Including a Surprise Hit

    This Week on Xbox Game Pass: 3 New Titles, Including a Surprise Hit

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Game Releases: Three new titles launched on Game Pass, including unique simulation and competitive games.

    2. Star Trucker: A space simulation game where players take on the role of a trucker navigating challenges like corporate greed and space pirates while enhancing their spacecraft.

    3. Wildfrost: A strategic roguelike deckbuilder set in a winter world, featuring turn-based battles and a unique “Counter System” for tactical gameplay.

    4. Rematch’s Popularity: The game has gained significant traction with high player numbers, focusing on fast-paced 5v5 football action without traditional rules, likened to “Rocket League with feet.”

    5. Gameplay Focus: Each game emphasizes skill, strategy, and fluid mechanics, catering to various gaming preferences from simulation to competitive sports.

    Last week saw the arrival of three new titles on Game Pass, and this week keeps that momentum going. If you’re interested in a unique type of simulation, particularly one set in space, you might want to try Star Trucker. Roguelike fans and deckbuilding enthusiasts will have a lot to experience with Wildfrost, while players looking for something competitive in the realm of football should check out Rematch. Unlike FC 25 (previously known as FIFA), Rematch prioritizes fast-paced, intense 5v5 action over realism – a choice that seems to have struck a chord with players, as evidenced by its impressive player numbers. Below is a brief overview.

    Star Trucker Overview

    Star Trucker is a simulation game that places you in the role of a space trucker. As you traverse the galaxy, you’ll undertake various missions while dealing with challenges such as corporate greed, space pirates, and suspicious outposts.

    You receive your orders through radio communications or at space stations, with tasks varying from simple cargo deliveries to smuggling assignments and missions that present unique obstacles. Throughout your journeys, you’ll need to keep an eye on fuel reserves, monitor your ship’s systems and damages, navigate asteroid fields, and survive in hostile territories – whether through combat or negotiation. Between missions, you can enhance your spacecraft with upgrades like improved engines, larger cargo holds, and more.

    Wildfrost Gameplay

    Wildfrost is a strategic roguelike deckbuilder placed in a world shrouded in perpetual winter. With the sun vanished and the land encased in ice, only one settlement endures: Snowdwell, a refuge for heroes fighting against the cold. Players lead a squad of adventurers into the frigid wilderness on a quest to find and eliminate the cause of the never-ending frost.

    Each game session begins with a randomly generated hero, boasting distinct stats and skills. As you advance, you’ll recruit allies and gather spells to enhance your deck and open up new tactical strategies. Battles take place in a turn-based format on a two-row battlefield, where positioning, cooldowns, and attack direction are crucial elements. A notable aspect of the game is the “Counter System” – cards don’t attack right away, but only after their counter hits zero. This introduces a strategic layer, requiring careful planning and precise timing. Between battles, you can select paths, visit stores, acquire new cards, or improve the ones you already have.

    Rematch’s Success

    With almost 160,000 players concurrently during its open beta on May 29 (as reported by SteamDB) and a current peak of over 42,000 during the full release, Rematch has emerged as one of the year’s unexpected hits. Its combination of accessible football mechanics and competitive arena gameplay has created significant excitement. Many players are dubbing it “Rocket League with feet instead of cars.”

    In Rematch, you control one player in a high-speed 5v5 match where the focus is on precise ball handling, accurate passes, skillful dribbling, and aggressive tackles. There are no fouls, no offsides, and no stoppages – just unyielding competition. Unlike conventional football games, Rematch emphasizes fluid, skill-based gameplay over realism.

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  • Nintendo Bans Users of MIG Switch Flash Cart on Switch 2

    Nintendo Bans Users of MIG Switch Flash Cart on Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo is banning consoles permanently from online services for using the MIG Switch flash cart.
    2. The MIG Switch allows players to load backups of games but has been misused for piracy.
    3. Affected players receive error code 2124-4508 when attempting to access online features.
    4. Consoles can still function offline after being banned from online services.
    5. Nintendo has a history of combating piracy, including shutting down the Yuzu emulator in March 2024.

    Nintendo is showing no mercy when it comes to fighting against piracy.

    Some players of the Nintendo Switch 2 are finding that their consoles have been permanently banned from accessing Nintendo’s online services after using a MIG Switch flash cart. This means they can no longer participate in online multiplayer, use the Nintendo eShop, or enjoy other online features like cloud saving.

    What is the MIG Switch?

    The MIG Switch is a flash cart designed for the original Nintendo Switch, which was released in early 2024. This device enables users to load backups of their Nintendo Switch games and play them on their console.

    Many people have turned to the MIG Switch as a simpler way to enjoy games they already own. They can store multiple games on one MIG Switch cart and keep it in their console, eliminating the hassle of swapping physical game cartridges. However, some users have allegedly used the MIG Switch to engage in piracy by illegally downloading games they do not own.

    Error Codes and Console Restrictions

    Players of the Switch 2 on platforms like Reddit and X have reported seeing an error code 2124-4508 when they try to start their consoles, indicating that their devices are barred from online services. For now, it seems that these consoles can still function offline without any issues.

    Nintendo has been engaged in a constant struggle against piracy related to the Switch for several years. One notable event occurred in March 2024 when Nintendo successfully sued and shut down the Switch emulator known as Yuzu. This action led to the closure or disappearance of many other Switch emulators, although new projects have emerged since then.

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  • Rainbow Six Siege X Becomes Free with $50 Skin and Currency Changes

    Rainbow Six Siege X Becomes Free with $50 Skin and Currency Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rainbow Six Siege X is now free-to-play, but players face challenges in progressing without spending real money on in-game currency, Renown.
    2. The introduction of new operator Fenrir brings unique gameplay features, but earning Renown through matches has become more difficult, leading to player dissatisfaction.
    3. Ubisoft has released expensive premium skins, including the Valkyrie Paragon Elite bundle, costing up to $50, which can only be purchased with real money.
    4. Community reaction is mixed; while some appreciate new graphics and sound enhancements, veterans worry that the game is becoming too casual, affecting its competitive balance.
    5. Daily challenges are available to help players earn more Renown, but the overall sentiment about the changes remains negative among the player base.

    On June 10th, the release of Rainbow Six Siege X marked a significant change as Ubisoft made the game free-to-play. Yet, like many free games, players find that progressing in this tactical shooter can be quite a hassle unless they spend real money. Earning Renown, the game’s currency, through match play has become much harder. Additionally, there is some backlash from the community regarding a premium skin priced at up to $50.

    Renown and New Features

    In Rainbow Six Siege X, players can use Renown to unlock weapon skins and various cosmetic items. The primary appeal of Renown, however, lies in unlocking operators, the playable characters in the game. The update introduced a new operator named Fenrir, who adds a unique tactical aspect with his bulletproof doors. Unfortunately, many players are noticing that the amount of currency earned from matches has significantly decreased. While there are daily challenges available to help players earn more, the general sentiment remains negative about the recent changes.

    Premium Skins and Costs

    Another strategy that game publishers often use after launching a free title is to introduce expensive premium skins. Ubisoft has taken this to the next level with the Valkyrie Paragon Elite bundle, which is the priciest cosmetic item ever released in the Rainbow Six Siege series. To buy this Norse mythology-themed collection, players need to spend 5,000 R6 credits. Unlike Renown, R6 credits are only obtainable through the Ubisoft Store and must be bought with real money. Some players are shelling out as much as $45-50 to add these Valkyrie Paragon cosmetics to their collection.

    Community Reactions

    Even games that require payment, like Diablo 4, encourage players to invest large sums of money on cosmetic items. However, some seasoned Rainbow Six players feel that the new skins do not match the realistic tone of the game.

    The launch of Rainbow Six Siege X also included enhancements to graphics and sound. The new 6×6 mode, Dual Front, is designed to be more accessible for new players. Conversely, long-time veterans are concerned that the game may be shifting towards a more casual approach, which could impact the competitive nature of the shooter.

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    Rainbow Six Siege X Becomes Free with $50 Skin and Currency Changes
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  • New Hack-and-Slash Roguelite RPG on Steam with 21K+ Positive Reviews

    New Hack-and-Slash Roguelite RPG on Steam with 21K+ Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Soulstone Survivors has officially launched on Steam with “Very Positive” feedback and is priced at $9.74, a 35% discount from its regular price of $14.99.

    2. The game features fast-paced hack-and-slash gameplay in circular arenas, where players face waves of enemies and massive bosses called Void Lords while unlocking abilities and refining equipment.

    3. There are over 350 skills, more than 100 weapons, and various characters to unlock, allowing for powerful character builds and exploration of late-game modes like Endless and Titan Hunt.

    4. The game emphasizes ongoing progression without microtransactions, offering all content from the start, and features smooth performance with ultrawide and 4K support.

    5. Soulstone Survivors is playable offline and compatible with basic hardware, though players have suggested more variety in stages and enemy types for future updates.

    Soulstone Survivors has made its official debut on Steam with version 1.0 after a lengthy early access period, and it’s already gathering “Very Positive” feedback—almost 300 reviews in just one day, alongside 21,000 previous reviews from early access. This game features fast-paced hack-and-slash gameplay combined with intricate roguelite progression, and it’s currently priced at $9.74, which is a 35% discount from its regular price of $14.99.

    Gameplay Overview

    Created by Game Smithing Limited, Soulstone Survivors immerses players in circular arena-style maps where they must fend off continuous enemy waves, unlock an array of abilities, and defeat colossal bosses known as the Void Lords. The aim isn’t merely to survive; players strive to create an overpowered character through skill and passive synergies while refining their equipment using soulstones gathered during each run.

    Character Customization

    The game offers over 350 skills, more than 100 weapons, and a plethora of characters to unlock, each featuring distinct trees, runes, and modifiers. Builds can become quite powerful quickly, particularly as players unlock tougher difficulty layers through Curses and explore new late-game modes such as Endless, Titan Hunt, and Unholy Cathedral. Despite the frenetic combat, players can still maintain a clear understanding of the action, and the cooldown-based abilities lend it more of an ARPG essence compared to games like Vampire Survivors.

    Progression and Content

    Soulstone Survivors stands out from many other titles in its genre as it doesn’t solely rely on randomness. Every aspect, from unlocking skills to crafting items, is integrated into ongoing progression systems. There are no microtransactions, and all content is available right from the start—something the developers have emphasized repeatedly, especially with the launch of the full 1.0 content patch, The Void King.

    The game is entirely playable offline, boasts support for ultrawide monitors and 4K resolution, and can run on basic hardware. It has been praised for its smooth Unity engine optimization and compatibility with controllers, although some players have mentioned that having more variety in stages and enemy types could be beneficial over time.

    If you think a roguelite that values strategy as much as swift reactions would suit you, Soulstone Survivors is definitely worth considering—especially now that it has transitioned out of early access and is at its most complete state. Plus, the 35% discount adds a sweet touch to the deal. You can check out the game here.

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    New Hack-and-Slash Roguelite RPG on Steam with 21K+ Positive ReviewsNew Hack-and-Slash Roguelite RPG on Steam with 21K+ Positive Reviews
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  • Keychron Launches $55 Retro and Gaming Mechanical Keyboards

    Keychron Launches $55 Retro and Gaming Mechanical Keyboards

    Key Takeaways

    1. Keychron has launched the C1 Pro 8K and C3 Pro 8K, budget-friendly gaming keyboards with extensive customisation options.
    2. Both keyboards feature an 8 kHz polling rate and compatibility with Linux, macOS, and Windows, supporting macros and RGB adjustments.
    3. The C1 Pro 8K has a vintage design with OSA profile keycaps, while the C3 Pro 8K offers shine-through keycaps and north-facing RGB LEDs.
    4. The C1 Pro 8K uses a tray-mount design, while the C3 Pro 8K features a gasket-mount design for improved sound and feel.
    5. Both models are hot-swappable and utilize QMK firmware for personalisation, with the C1 Pro 8K offering more ergonomic support through adjustable typing angles.

    Keychron has refreshed its range of budget-friendly gaming keyboards with the introduction of the Keychron C1 Pro 8K and the Keychron C3 Pro 8K. These latest keyboards present a rather straightforward hardware design, yet they offer a wide range of customisation options. The C1 Pro stands out with a distinctive look that is usually unexpected at its $55 price point. Both models boast 8 kHz polling rates and a built-in SOCD or Snap Tap feature, which is rare among mechanical keyboards. Moreover, they are highly compatible with Linux, macOS, and Windows, supporting on-board macros, key remapping, and RGB backlight adjustments.

    Similarities in Design

    At first glance, the C3 Pro 8K and C1 Pro 8K appear quite alike, even though the C1 Pro 8K has a more vintage design. Both keyboards come with a TKL layout, an 8 kHz polling rate, and options for Keychron Super Red, Brown, or Banana switches. The key differences between these two models relate to the keycap design, RGB setup, and internal structure, with the latter likely making the C3 Pro 8K a superior option.

    Keycap and Lighting Differences

    The C1 Pro 8K is equipped with the same OSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps that we appreciated in our K4 HE review, while the C3 Pro opts for shine-through double-shot PBT keycaps in a conventional Cherry profile. The shine-through keycaps work with the north-facing RGB LEDs on the C3 Pro 8K, in contrast to the south-facing LEDs on the C1 Pro 8K. This may not seem significant, but it allows for easier access to shine-through keycaps for the C3 Pro 8K compared to the C1.

    Mounting Design and Features

    The most notable distinction between the C1 Pro 8K and the C3 Pro 8K is that the C1 Pro 8K utilizes a tray-mount design with a metal plate, whereas the C3 Pro 8K employs a gasket-mount design with what appears to be a flex-cut PC plate. This results in a more flexible switch plate for the C3 Pro 8K compared to the C1 Pro 8K. The gasket mount significantly enhances the sound and feel of the keyboard by separating the switch plate and PCB from the plastic casing. Thankfully, both keyboards come with an array of case foams, films, and acoustic pads that act as sound-dampening materials to improve the acoustic characteristics of the keyboards.

    Connectivity and Customisation

    Both the Keychron C1 Pro 8K and C3 Pro 8K feature a specific hardware switch to toggle between macOS and Windows layouts, and they utilize USB type-C wired connectivity exclusively. Both models are hot-swappable and support 3- and 5-pin Cherry MX style switches. They also incorporate QMK firmware, allowing for personalisation through VIA or Keychron’s custom Launcher web app, which has consistently been a highlight in our reviews of Keychron keyboards. The C1 Pro 8K provides a bit more ergonomic support, featuring two-stage flip-out feet for adjustable typing angles of 4°, 8°, and 10°, while the C3 Pro 8K is limited to 4° and 8° angles.

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    Keychron Launches $55 Retro and Gaming Mechanical KeyboardsKeychron Launches $55 Retro and Gaming Mechanical Keyboards

     

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