Key Takeaways
1. Cherry has launched three new mechanical keyboards designed for office workers: KW 550 MX, KW 300 MX, and KW X ULP 2.0 Mini, focusing on productivity over flashy designs.
2. All models feature double-shot, backlit PBT keycaps, Bluetooth connectivity for up to three devices, and minimalist fonts, catering to various workspace needs with different layouts.
3. The KW 300 MX is a full-height keyboard with hot-swap sockets for switches, a volume knob, and a starting price of €139.99, but may be pricier than similar alternatives.
4. The KW 550 MX LP has a low-profile design with Cherry’s MX Low Profile 2.0 switches, a 96% layout, and a retail price of €119.99, but lacks hot-swap functionality.
5. The KW X ULP 2.0 Mini is a compact 75% keyboard featuring MX Ultra Low Profile 2.0 switches, designed for portability, with Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4 GHz connectivity, and compatibility for both macOS and Windows.
Cherry has introduced three new mechanical keyboards aimed at office workers: the KW 550 MX, KW 300 MX, and KW X ULP 2.0 Mini. Each model comes with Cherry’s latest switches: MX2A, MX Low Profile 2.0, or MX Ultra Low Profile. These keyboards prioritize a simple design focused on productivity and typing experience rather than flashy RGB lighting, high polling rates, or extravagant designs.
Focused on Productivity
All of the new keyboards come equipped with double-shot, backlit PBT keycaps that feature clear, minimalist fonts. They also support Bluetooth connectivity for up to three devices and have special backlights for indicator keys. The options range from the compact 75% layout of the KW X ULP 2.0 to the more functional 96% layout of the KW 550 MX LP, providing choices that cater to different workspace needs.
Features of the KW 300 MX
The KW 300 MX is a full-height mechanical keyboard with a 75% layout, incorporating double-shot PBT keycaps and Cherry MX2A switches within a “soundproof” casing. It includes a handy knob that adjusts system volume, brightness, or keyboard connection modes. This model uniquely features hot-swap sockets, enabling users to easily switch out the switches for different feels, sounds, or actuation points. The KW 300 MX connects via Bluetooth 5.2 or USB Type-C and has a starting price of €139.99. However, this price might seem steep, especially when compared to alternatives like the Keychron V1 Max, which offers similar features and customization options at a lower cost.
The Low-Profile KW 550 MX LP
The KW 550 MX LP combines a low-profile design with Cherry’s MX Low Profile 2.0 switches within a 96% layout. This design includes a num pad while omitting the navigation cluster often found on full-size keyboards, making it more compact yet still practical for number-heavy tasks. It features a metal plate for added stability, but it lacks hot-swap functionality, meaning users cannot change the switches after purchase. The keyboard operates at 1,000 Hz polling, making it adequate for casual gaming, though it lacks advanced features like remapping. The retail price for the KW 550 MX LP is €119.99, and it is available exclusively in black directly from Cherry.
A Portable Option: KW X ULP 2.0 Mini
The Cherry KW X ULP 2.0 Mini is likely the most appealing option for mobile productivity enthusiasts, showcasing Cherry’s MX Ultra Low Profile 2.0 switches and polycarbonate keycaps. These switches are the same ones used in the Alienware 18 Area-51 laptop, which we previously noted to be among the most comfortable for gaming laptops.
The KW X ULP 2.0 Mini features a compact 75% layout, unlike its predecessor, which was only available in a full-size version. This makes it significantly more portable. Like the other new models, it offers white backlit keys, Bluetooth 5.2, and 2.4 GHz connectivity, along with a detachable USB Type-C-to-A cable for charging and wired use. The keyboard also supports both macOS and Windows layouts, making it user-friendly for those who switch between different operating systems.
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