Tag: Gaming Keyboard

  • Epomaker Launches Compact 36-Key Gaming Keyboard with Hall Effect Switches

    Epomaker Launches Compact 36-Key Gaming Keyboard with Hall Effect Switches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epomaker HE30 is a compact 30% gaming keyboard with only 36 keys, designed for gamers rather than typing or general work tasks.
    2. Its small size allows for more desk space, enhancing mouse maneuverability and accuracy during gameplay, especially in shooters and strategy games.
    3. The keyboard features a sturdy build with a plastic outer shell, aluminum plate, Hall-effect switches for quick response, and adjustable trigger points.
    4. It includes RGB backlighting, PBT keycaps, and weighs 350 grams, with a wrist strap for easy portability; however, it’s wired only and lacks Bluetooth support.
    5. The HE30 is priced at $50 and officially supports Windows and Linux, but not macOS.

    The popularity of compact gaming keyboards has been growing for many years now. While a lot of gamers prefer 60 or 65% layouts, Epomaker is trying something different with their HE30, which is a 30% keyboard. This means it only has 36 keys, which is just the left side of a standard keyboard.

    Ideal for Gamers

    While the HE30 might not be the best for typing or general work tasks, it shines in gaming, especially in shooters, MOBA, or strategy games where having just 36 keys is more than sufficient. This compact design allows for more desk space, making it easier to maneuver a gaming mouse with lower sensitivity, thus enhancing accuracy during gameplay. It’s important to note that the keyboard doesn’t come with a battery or Bluetooth support, meaning it can only be used wired, achieving a polling rate of 8,000 Hz when connected via USB.

    Sturdy Build and Features

    The HE30 is constructed with a plastic outer shell and an aluminum plate, enhancing its stability. It features Hall-effect switches, which allow for a very quick key response, and you can also adjust the trigger point. The keyboard comes with RGB backlighting and PBT keycaps, which are standard features. Weighing in at 350 grams, it also includes a wrist strap for easy carrying. While Windows and Linux users are supported, macOS is not officially compatible.

    For those interested, the Epomaker HE30 gaming keyboard is priced at $50 on Amazon. More information can be found on the product’s official page.

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  • Asus Launches Compact Gaming Keyboard with Analog Switches and Touchpad

    Asus Launches Compact Gaming Keyboard with Analog Switches and Touchpad

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Design: The ROG Falchion Ace 75 HE is 75% the size of regular keyboards, omitting the numpad and integrating arrow keys into the main layout.

    2. Innovative Input Options: It features a multi-function button, touch panel, rotary dial, and rapid trigger toggle switch for quick adjustments.

    3. Customizable Switches: Equipped with ROG HFX V2 or V2X switches that allow users to control when a key press is registered, enhancing responsiveness.

    4. High Performance: The keyboard has an impressive polling rate of 8,000 Hz for fast keystroke reactions and requires a wired connection.

    5. Included Accessories: Comes with a range of accessories, including a carrying case, though pricing and availability are yet to be announced.

    Asus is set to introduce a new gaming keyboard called the ROG Falchion Ace 75 HE, which showcases the latest technology in a compact design. The “75” in its name indicates that it is 75% the size of regular keyboards, omitting the numpad. The arrow keys, along with other keys, are closely integrated into the main part of the keyboard. Instead of their usual layout, the six-key block is arranged in a vertical line on the right side.

    Innovative Features

    Despite the compact size, function keys are still included. Asus has added extra input options on both the back and top of the keyboard. These features consist of a multi-function button, a touch panel, a rotary dial, and a rapid trigger toggle switch located at the top right corner. These components enable users to swiftly adjust key settings, like media controls. The keyboard is equipped with ROG HFX V2 or ROG HFX V2X switches, which are magnetic and let users decide when a key press is registered. Unlike standard mechanical keyboards, these switches reset instantly when lifted (known as the “Rapid Trigger” effect), which helps with quick presses.

    Performance and Dimensions

    This keyboard boasts a polling rate of 8,000 Hz, guaranteeing fast keystroke reactions. It measures 320 x 145 x 35 millimeters and requires a wired connection. A fairly extensive set of accessories comes with the keyboard, including a carrying case. Details on the pricing and availability are still to be announced.

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  • Corsair Galleon 100 SD Keyboard with Built-in Stream Deck Review

    Corsair Galleon 100 SD Keyboard with Built-in Stream Deck Review

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Corsair Galleon 100 SD features a built-in Elgato Stream Deck with 12 customizable keys, two dials, and a 5-inch display.
    2. Pre-orders are available now, with shipping starting on January 29, 2026.
    3. The keyboard has a full-size layout without a number pad, using that space for the Stream Deck.
    4. It includes pre-lubed MLX Pulse linear switches, a hot-swappable PCB, and six layers of sound dampening for a better typing experience.
    5. Priced at $349.99, the Galleon 100 SD offers unique features that may set it apart from other gaming keyboards in the same price range.

    If you thought gaming keyboards couldn’t get any more flashy, Corsair is here to surprise you with the Galleon 100 SD, packed with a built-in Elgato Stream Deck. This new keyboard goes beyond the Vanguard 96 Pro (curr: $229.99 at Amazon), which only has virtual Stream Deck support. The Galleon 100 SD boasts real Stream Deck hardware, featuring 12 customizable keys, each equipped with its own LED display, plus two dials and a 5-inch 720 x 1,280 screen.

    Pre-Order Information

    Corsair is displaying the Galleon 100 SD at CES 2026, but you can get your hands on it by pre-ordering today. However, it won’t be shipped until January 29. The LCD keys, dials, and screen can be fully adjusted for various applications and games such as Discord, Spotify, OBS Studio, and more. It also supports plugins from the Elgato Marketplace, similar to the standalone Stream Deck.

    Keyboard Features

    Regarding its overall design, the Galleon 100 SD has a full-size layout but omits the number pad, which is swapped out for the Stream Deck. It features pre-lubed MLX Pulse linear switches on a hot-swappable PCB, combined with a gasket mount design and six layers of sound dampening to ensure a comfortable typing experience and better sound quality. Additionally, it offers an 8,000 Hz polling rate and Flash Tap SOCD for smoother counter strafing in shooter games.

    Pricing and Availability

    Priced at $349.99, the Galleon 100 SD is on the pricier side of gaming keyboards. Nevertheless, the integrated Elgato Stream Deck may provide it with a competitive advantage against other keyboards in the same price bracket. You can find pre-orders available on the Corsair website, with shipping expected to start between January 29 and February 1.

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  • Gravastar Mercury V60 Pro: Sci-Fi Design & UFO Magnetic Switches

    Gravastar Mercury V60 Pro: Sci-Fi Design & UFO Magnetic Switches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Gravastar V60 Pro is a compact 60% gaming keyboard made from a durable aluminum alloy.
    2. It features new UFO magnetic switches that provide smoother performance, reduced noise, and faster response times compared to previous models.
    3. The keyboard has an 8,000 Hz polling rate, customizable per-key activation, and multi-zone RGB lighting with 16 dynamic modes.
    4. It measures 12.8 x 4.95 x 1.61 inches and weighs about 1.9 lbs, with a hot-swappable design for easy switch changes.
    5. The V60 Pro is available in gunmetal and chrome silver finishes, priced at $219.95 on Gravastar’s official website.

    Gravastar, a company from China that makes gaming accessories, has introduced a new small gaming keyboard called the V60 Pro. This keyboard joins the Mercury V75 Pro, which was released in June 2025. Both keyboards share a similar sci-fi themed aesthetic.

    Design and Build

    The V60 Pro comes with a compact 60% layout and is constructed from a full aluminum alloy, making it sturdy. For its switches, Gravastar has included its newest UFO magnetic switches, which are claimed to provide smoother, deeper, and more precise performance. They state that the improved Hall sensors produce 70% less noise, have a 200% faster response time, and offer 50% more sensitivity compared to the previous model.

    Performance Features

    Just like the Mercury V75 Pro, the V60 Pro boasts an impressive 8,000 Hz polling rate, a 0.125 ms response time, 0.005 RT precision, and per-key adjustable activation to help users customize their key settings. Furthermore, it features multi-zone RGB lighting with 16 different customizable dynamic modes, dual-zone control for both keys and ambient side lights, as well as adjustable hue, saturation, and brightness.

    Dimensions and Additional Features

    The V60 Pro is compact due to its 60% layout, measuring 12.8 x 4.95 x 1.61 inches (325 x 125.8 x 41 mm) and weighing about 1.9 lbs (0.86 kg). It also includes features such as dynamic rapid trigger, rapid trigger mode, last keystroke prioritization (LKP) combined with snap click, and a hot-swappable design for easy switch changes using magnetic Hall Effect switches.

    Offered in gunmetal and chrome silver finishes, the Gravastar V60 Pro is priced at $219.95. It is currently available for purchase on Gravastar’s official website.

    Gravastar via PRNewswire

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    Gravastar Mercury V60 Pro: Sci-Fi Design & UFO Magnetic Switches

     

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  • Qwertykeys Launches Retro-Style Mechanical Keyboard with Mini Games

    Qwertykeys Launches Retro-Style Mechanical Keyboard with Mini Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. The QK65 MK3 features a retro design inspired by classic gaming consoles, with a nostalgic gray and matte lilac color scheme.
    2. It includes a color screen that allows users to play embedded mini games, as well as display system status and information.
    3. The keyboard has two buttons for game control and a small speaker for enhanced functionality.
    4. It offers both wired and wireless connectivity options, but comes as a barebones kit requiring users to provide their own switches and keycaps.
    5. The QK65 MK3 is expected to be available in five initial color options, though detailed specifications and pricing have not yet been disclosed.

    There seems to be a growing trend in gaming keyboards that come with built-in screens. New arrivals such as the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE, Chilkey ND104, and Corsair Vanguard 96 all include some form of small display. However, while most keyboards utilize the display for system info or quick settings, Qwertykeys may have discovered the most imaginative use of this feature.

    Sneak Peek of the QK65 MK3

    The custom keyboard manufacturer has started to tease its new QK65 MK3 keyboard through several social media updates. Similar to the QK65 V2 and V2 Classic, it maintains a 65% layout but now showcases a design inspired by retro aesthetics, featuring a color screen that can be used to enjoy a collection of embedded mini games.

    Retro Design and Functionality

    The QK65 MK3 sports a nostalgic gray and matte lilac look that harks back to classic gaming consoles like the Super NES and Game Boy. Its color display is located on the right side of the keyboard, accompanied by two buttons underneath for game control, as well as a small speaker. Besides gaming, the screen can also display system status and various information. Additionally, it has two vintage-style knobs at the top edge allowing users to switch between different connectivity modes and operating systems.

    Connectivity and Customization

    Furthermore, this keyboard will offer both wired and wireless functionality. However, similar to most Qwertykeys products, it appears it will be available as a barebones kit, meaning users will need to provide their own switches and keycaps. Although Qwertykeys hasn’t disclosed detailed specifications, materials, or pricing yet, it is anticipated that the keyboard will be available in five initial color options.

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  • Asus Launches 65% Hall Effect Keyboard for CS:GO Major Champion

    Asus Launches 65% Hall Effect Keyboard for CS:GO Major Champion

    Key Takeaways

    1. Special Edition Design: The ROG Falchion Ace HFX ZywOo Edition features a mostly black look with magenta WASD keys, a yellow Enter key, and a spacebar with ZywOo’s signature.

    2. Performance Consistency: It maintains the same advanced ROG HFX magnetic switches as the original, allowing adjustable actuation points and an 8,000 Hz polling rate for optimal gaming performance.

    3. User-Friendly Adjustments: The keyboard offers simple controls for quick adjustments, including a Rapid Trigger toggle and easy access to settings without needing an app.

    4. Enhanced Build Quality: It includes a gasket mount with pre-lubed stabilizers, five layers of sound dampening, and shine-through keycaps for improved user experience.

    5. Compact and Versatile: The 65% layout (315 x 115 x 35 mm) and two USB-C ports allow easy switching between devices, making it a flexible option for gamers.

    Asus has updated its ROG Falchion Ace HFX gaming keyboard from last year with a new special edition that honors the recent Counter-Strike Major champion, and ROG ambassador Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut. This new model maintains the mostly black look of the original but adds striking magenta and yellow touches that help it to stand out on your desk.

    New Design Features

    Unveiled alongside the ROG Azoth 96 HE gaming keyboard, the ROG Falchion Ace HFX ZywOo Edition showcases magenta-tinted WASD keys, a vibrant yellow Enter key, and distinct symbols, including a sniper rifle design. The spacebar features ZywOo’s signature, and it comes with a custom cover branded for ZywOo. Overall, it’s a nice aesthetic enhancement compared to the plain black version.

    Same Great Performance

    Besides the updated design, the ROG Falchion Ace HFX ZywOo Edition is just like the original model. It utilizes the same ROG HFX magnetic switches, which offer advanced features such as Rapid Trigger, adjustable actuation, and SOCD for perfect counter-strafing. Gamers can adjust the actuation point of each key to as little as 0.1 mm for faster responses. Plus, it supports an 8,000 Hz polling rate to compete with other high-end gaming keyboards, like the new Corsair Vanguard 96 Pro.

    User-Friendly Adjustments

    What makes the Falchion Ace HFX really enjoyable to use is how simple it is to change everything. Unlike many Hall effect keyboards that require users to open an app for setting adjustments, this one has controls readily available. A special Rapid Trigger toggle allows for immediate enabling or disabling of the feature, while the touch panel and multifunction button facilitate quick changes to actuation points, RGB lighting, and media playback on the go.

    Additional Features

    Other notable aspects include a gasket mount with pre-lubed stabilizers, five layers of sound dampening, and shine-through keycaps. The keyboard also features two USB-C ports for easy switching between two PCs, along with adjustable feet for height customization. With its compact 65% layout, it measures 315 x 115 x 35 mm and weighs 643 g. However, Asus has not disclosed pricing or availability yet, but since the original model was around $199, we anticipate this special edition will fall within a similar price range.

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  • Keychron Q16 HE: First Full Ceramic TMR Gaming Keyboard Pre-Order

    Keychron Q16 HE: First Full Ceramic TMR Gaming Keyboard Pre-Order

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Performance: The Keychron Q16 HE features a 256 kHz PCB scan rate and 0.01 mm precision for improved actuation and advanced functionalities.

    2. Durable and Stylish Design: The keyboard has a ceramic case that is more scratch-resistant and durable than aluminum, providing a glossy finish and smooth feel.

    3. Innovative Switches: The Magnetic Lime switches enhance sound profile and accuracy, featuring a closed-bottom structure that reduces stem wobble.

    4. Customization Options: Users can fully customize and remap settings through the Keychron Launcher software, including actuation distance and backlighting.

    5. Pre-Order Details: The Q16 HE is available for pre-order on Kickstarter for $229.99, with expected delivery in November and options for two colors: Cetacean Blue and Mint White.

    Keychron has recently revealed its new ultra-premium gaming keyboard, the Q16 HE, on Kickstarter. While the retail price and some specifications were leaked earlier through a product page, the official launch brings additional details and a small pre-order discount, making this ceramic keyboard more affordable than some of its aluminum rivals.

    Enhanced Performance

    The Keychron Q16 HE stands out with impressive features like an incredible 256 kHz PCB scan rate and 0.01 mm precision for both actuation distance and advanced functionalities such as Rapid Trigger and SOCD. While many gaming keyboards provide 8 kHz polling and Hall effect switches, this model takes performance to a whole new level.

    Durable and Stylish Design

    What really differentiates the Q16 HE from other keyboards with aluminum chassis is its ceramic case. Keychron asserts that this ceramic material is more scratch-resistant and durable than aluminum. Both the case and keycaps are crafted from glazed, kiln-fired ceramic, which gives the keyboard a glossy finish and smooth feel that is expected to last longer than the texture on even the top HE keyboards.

    Innovative Switches

    The Magnetic Lime switches also add a unique touch to the design, and their closed-bottom structure is likely to enhance the sound profile of the Q16 HE. These switches resemble the Gateron Magnetic Jade Gaming switches (currently priced at $57.99 for 70 switches on Amazon) since they feature a box-shaped stem aimed at minimizing stem wobble, which contributes to improved sensing accuracy for Hall effect and TMR sensors.

    Customization Options

    Like many Keychron products, such as the Keychron K4 HE we recently reviewed, the Q16 HE allows for full customization and remapping through the Keychron Launcher software, which is browser-based. Users can adjust actuation distance, backlighting, and the previously mentioned analogue input features.

    Pre-Order Details

    You can pre-order the Keychron Q16 HE on Kickstarter for an early bird price of $229.99. This is $10 less than the Keychron Q4 HE and Q1 HE (currently 5% off on Amazon), and it also beats the $239.99 list price seen before the launch. Expected delivery for pre-orders is set for November for those who purchase through Kickstarter. The keyboard is available in two colors: Cetacean Blue and Mint White.

     

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  • Chilkey’s Compact Evangelion Gaming Keyboard with Cork Damper

    Chilkey’s Compact Evangelion Gaming Keyboard with Cork Damper

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Chilkey Slice68 HE features 68 keys with Hall effect technology, an aluminum casing, and an 8 kHz polling rate, competing with the Iqunix EZ63.
    2. It includes Wuque Studio Flux magnetic switches and unique Neon Genesis Evangelion keycaps, setting it apart from typical gaming keyboards.
    3. The silicone particle gasket mount and cork sheet design enhance typing feel and noise reduction, along with IXPE switch pad and Poron case foam for better sound dampening.
    4. A customizable RGB strip is present, although the south-facing RGB lighting may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer shine-through keycaps.
    5. The keyboard boasts a latency of 0.1 ms, allows per-key actuation distance adjustments, and is fully remappable, retailing for $199 with expected availability on Amazon.

    When we previously discussed the Chilkey Slice68 HE, there was no official pricing or detailed specifications available. It was evident that this keyboard would feature 68 keys with Hall effect technology, an aluminium casing, and a polling rate of 8 kHz. This places it squarely in competition with the Iqunix EZ63, which we reviewed not long ago.

    Official Announcement

    Now, Chilkey has made the Slice68 HE official and has shared the pricing alongside a comprehensive list of specifications. Similar to the Chilkey Slice75 HE, the Slice68 HE incorporates Wuque Studio Flux magnetic switches. However, it has some unique features that distinguish it from typical Hall effect gaming keyboards, such as the stylish Neon Genesis Evangelion keycaps and an exceptionally crafted aluminium chassis.

    Unique Features

    One of the standout aspects of the Slice68 is its silicone particle gasket mount, which sets it apart from many other HE keyboards. This design aims to separate the keyboard’s plate from the casing, providing a more cushioned typing feel and better noise reduction. Additionally, a cork sheet is placed between the plate and PCB, giving it a distinct sound profile compared to standard foam materials. The Slice68 HE is also equipped with enthusiast-grade elements, including an IXPE switch pad and Poron case foam, both of which contribute to enhanced sound dampening.

    Visuals and RGB

    In terms of aesthetics, the south-facing RGB lighting might disappoint those who prefer shine-through keycaps. Nevertheless, the Slice68 HE includes a customizable RGB strip along the front edge of the keyboard, aligning well with the Evangelion theme.

    Gaming Performance

    The Slice68 HE is packed with impressive gaming features and performance metrics, alongside its robust mechanical design. Chilkey asserts that this keyboard will achieve a latency of just 0.1 ms and allows per-key actuation distance adjustments with precision up to 0.01 mm. While it lacks analogue input—something we’ve only seen with the Keychron and Wooting Hall effect keyboards—the Slice68 HE offers a solid range of features, such as rapid trigger, DKS, and SOCD. Additionally, it is entirely remappable, catering to users who enjoy experimenting with various keyboard layouts.

    The Chilkey Slice68 HE retails for $199 on the Chilkey website, and it is expected to become available on Amazon later, similar to the current status of the Slice75 HE.

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    Chilkey's Compact Evangelion Gaming Keyboard with Cork DamperChilkey's Compact Evangelion Gaming Keyboard with Cork Damper

     

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  • Corsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck Hybrid

    Corsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck Hybrid

    Key Takeaways

    1. Stream Deck Integration: The Corsair Vanguard 96 series features six programmable G-keys for seamless Stream Deck integration, making it ideal for streamers.

    2. Compact Design: Both keyboards have a 96% layout that includes essential keys while remaining compact, along with a detachable memory foam cushion and USB connectivity.

    3. Advanced Pro Features: The Vanguard 96 Pro includes Hall effect technology and hotswappable magnetic switches, allowing customizable actuation points for enhanced gameplay.

    4. High Customization and Performance: The keyboards offer 40 actuation intervals and a rapid 8 kHz polling rate, enhancing responsiveness for gamers.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Vanguard 96 Pro is priced at $220, while the non-pro version costs $179.99, both set to be available on October 11th.

    It’s rare to find a gaming keyboard that also serves as a streaming hub, yet Corsair’s new keyboard series aims to achieve that goal. The Corsair Vanguard 96 and Vanguard 96 Pro come with six programmable G-keys on the side, offering Stream Deck integration at a hardware level. This feature positions the keyboard as the perfect command centre for any streamer.

    Compact Design with Full Features

    Both keyboards in the Vanguard 96 range sport a 96% alphanumeric layout, including F-keys, arrow keys, and a numpad. They still manage to fit in a rotary dial and a mini 1.9-inch full-colour LCD, all while maintaining the compact size of a tenkeyless keyboard. The devices come with a detachable memory foam cushion and connect through USB 3.0 or 3.1 type A.

    Advanced Features in the Pro Model

    The Vanguard 96 Pro, which costs more than the standard model, is equipped with Hall effect technology and features hotswappable magnetic switches. Thanks to Corsair’s own MGX hyperdrive technology, gamers can set up secondary actuation points for added functionality on each key. For instance, pressing W in many FPS games usually means “walk,” but a deeper press can be configured to trigger a sprint, mimicking the pressure-sensitive triggers found on game controllers.

    Customization and Performance

    Customization of these actuation points is highly accurate, offering 40 distinct intervals ranging from 0.1mm to 40mm, while Rapid Trigger tech reduces the lag between multiple keystrokes. Corsair boasts an impressive 8 kHz polling rate on both keyboards. Even more affordable mechanical keyboards, like the KeyChron C1 Pro, are now seeking to match this high standard.

    The set of G-keys on the keyboard represents Corsair’s latest effort to embed an Elgato stream deck directly into the keyboard. While the last attempt was a humorous 1262-key April Fool’s prank, this version seems legitimate.

    All-in-One Control Center

    Corsair is promoting the Vanguard 96 keyboards as a comprehensive control centre for both gamers and streamers, and they have done so in a clever manner. The placement of the G-keys helps prevent accidental macro launches, overlay triggers, or unwanted RGB lighting changes. Streamers can configure these keys using Corsair’s iCUE or Web Hub.

    In addition to the six G-keys, there is also a button that opens Virtual Stream Decks, enabling unlimited virtual panels, each with up to 64 programmable hotkeys.

    Pricing and Availability

    At a price of $220, the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s difficult to label it as overpriced. The sleek aluminum frame, four layers of sound-dampening foam, and the leatherette finish of the memory foam wrist rest give the keyboard a luxurious feel.

    For those who prefer to skip the Hall effect keys and the associated multi-actuation, Corsair offers the non-pro Vanguard 96 with pre-lubed MLX mechanical switches for $179.99.

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    Corsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck HybridCorsair Vanguard 96: The Ultimate Keyboard and Stream Deck Hybrid

     

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  • Keychron Q16 HE Ceramic TMR Gaming Keyboard Price Unveiled

    Keychron Q16 HE Ceramic TMR Gaming Keyboard Price Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Keychron Q16 HE is priced at $239.99, matching the cost of other Keychron mechanical and HE gaming keyboards like the Q13 Max.
    2. It features a durable ceramic body and ceramic keycaps, enhancing longevity and durability compared to competitors with plastic builds.
    3. The keyboard includes high-end gaming specs such as an 8 kHz polling rate and adjustable actuation distance, along with contactless Ultra-Fast Magnetic Lime switches.
    4. The Q16 HE lacks wireless capabilities and a gasket mount, which may affect the typing experience but helps in keeping production costs lower.
    5. Orders from Kickstarter are expected to begin shipping in October, with no official release date announced yet.

    We shared earlier about the upcoming Keychron Q16 HE, a gaming keyboard that features a TMR-based design along with a completely ceramic body. Initially, it was thought that the Q16 HE would be quite expensive, but the official launch price has now shown up on the Keychron website, and it matches the cost of their other mechanical and HE gaming keyboards.

    Pricing Details

    As per Keychron’s online shop, the Q16 HE is priced at $239.99, which is identical to the Keychron Q13 Max model we recently reviewed. This pricing is interesting considering the Q16 HE includes ceramic keycaps and a chassis, which Keychron claims enhances durability. Additionally, the Q16 HE features high-end gaming specs like 8 kHz polling rate and adjustable actuation distance. The TMR sensor tech and Keychron’s Ultra-Fast Magnetic Lime switches are not only beneficial for gaming but also contribute to the keyboard’s longevity, as contactless switches are known to have fewer mechanical issues than traditional ones.

    Comparison with Competitors

    In comparison, the Cerakey Nada 65 Panda is a fully assembled mechanical keyboard showcasing ceramic keycaps, tri-mode wireless options, and a gasket mount, priced at $159. However, it has a plastic body unlike the Q16 HE’s ceramic build.

    Interestingly, it appears that Keychron might have compromised on the typing experience because there is no indication of a gasket mount on the Q16 HE’s product page. Nevertheless, it will feature the same acoustic enhancements found in Keychron’s other keyboards.

    Additional Considerations

    There are some important notes to consider. Firstly, the Q16 HE lacks wireless capabilities, which could help lower production costs. It also comes in a 65% layout, making its components less expensive compared to layouts like the larger 1800 Q13 Max. Despite this, it’s worth mentioning that the Q16 HE is priced the same as the Q2 HE, which also offers a 65% layout and Hall effect technology—although the Q1 HE is currently on sale for $203.99 on Amazon.

    Keychron has yet to reveal an official release date for the Q16 HE, but the product page indicates that orders from Kickstarter are expected to begin shipping in October. You can visit the Prelaunch page to sign up for updates on the Q6 HE.

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