Tag: mechanical keyboard

August 11, 2024
Keychron K2 HE Mechanical Keyboard: Hall Effect, Hot-Swappable Keys
Keychron has unveiled the K2 HE, a mechanical keyboard incorporating Hall effect switches with adjustable actuation points. Priced at $125, it supports three connectivity modes and is currently available for crowdfunding on Kickstarter, with deliveries anticipated to commence in October 2024.
Keychron K2 HE Keyboard Specifications
The Keychron K2 HE is equipped with Hall effect switches that utilize magnetic sensors to register keystrokes. This allows users to adjust the actuation point from 0.1mm to 3.8mm, providing a personalized typing and gaming experience. Additionally, the keyboard supports hot-swapping, making it easy to replace switches without the need for soldering.
The keyboard features pre-lubricated Gateron double-rail magnetic switches that deliver a soft tactile response with a 40g actuation force and a 60g bottom-out force. These switches are highly durable, with a lifespan of up to 150 million keystrokes. The device also includes a 1KHz polling rate for responsive performance.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Offering a variety of connectivity options, the K2 HE supports USB Type-C (wired), Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless modes. It allows multi-device pairing, enabling users to switch between devices effortlessly. The keyboard is powered by a 4000mAh rechargeable battery, ensuring prolonged usage between charges.
Additional Features and Design
The Keychron K2 HE is fitted with RGB backlighting that includes 22 modes, durable double-shot PBT keycaps, and screw-in PCB stabilizers for enhanced typing stability.
It also supports dynamic keystrokes, permitting multiple actions to be assigned to a single key based on press depth. Users can adjust settings such as actuation points, macros, and RGB patterns using the Keychron Launcher Web Configurator.
Following the design language of the K2 series, the K2 HE features a compact 75% layout with dimensions of 320.5mm x 126.2mm x 40.7mm and a weight of approximately 965 grams. The keyboard comes in a chic Black and White color scheme with natural rosewood accents, offering a minimalistic yet stylish look.
Tags: Hall Effect Switches, Keychron K2 HE, mechanical keyboard
August 11, 2024
Keychron Q14 Max Alice Layout Keyboard on Sale China
Keychron recently introduced the Q14 Max tri-mode Alice mechanical keyboard to the Chinese market. It is now available for purchase on JD.com, starting at 1298 Yuan ($181). Let’s explore its main features.
Keychron Q14 Max Keyboard Specifications:
Constructed from 6063 aluminum using CNC machining, the Q14 Max has a sturdy metal body that offers a sleek and durable appearance. The keyboard features a 96% Alice layout, which is ergonomically designed to accommodate the natural wrist angle, thereby improving comfort and efficiency.
In terms of connectivity, the Q14 Max supports three modes: 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired via Type-C. This makes it compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.
The keyboard allows for QMK/VIA key remapping and includes custom web-based drivers for easy key function customization without the need for additional software. It has a gasket structure with multiple layers of padding, such as latex foam, IXPE under-switch padding, and PET sound-dampening pads, enhancing both typing comfort and sound quality.
Switches and RGB Lighting
This mechanical keyboard comes with Gateron Jupiter switches available in Red (linear), Brown (tactile), and Banana (tactile with an early bump) variants. These switches are hot-swappable, enabling users to replace them without soldering. It also features full-key anti-ghosting to ensure accurate keypresses even during rapid typing.
Additionally, the Q14 Max includes south-facing RGB lighting with 22 customizable modes and a multimedia knob for easy volume adjustment. The durable design incorporates PBT dye-sublimated keycaps, which are resistant to wear.
Battery and Performance
Powered by a 4000mAh battery, the Q14 Max offers a polling rate of 1000Hz in 2.4G mode and 90Hz in Bluetooth mode, ensuring responsive performance.
Pricing
The Keychron Q14 Max is priced at 1298 Yuan ($181) for the base model without switches and keycaps. The version with Red, Brown, or Banana switches costs 1467 Yuan ($204).
Tags: Keychron Q14 Max, mechanical keyboard
August 7, 2024
Varmilo Muse65 Gaming Keyboard: Gateron Switches, CNC Aluminum
Varmilo, a well-known brand for mechanical keyboards, has launched its new gaming keyboard, the Muse65. This 65% compact keyboard features magnetic switches and an aluminum alloy case, merging aesthetic charm with high performance.
Varmilo Muse65 Keyboard Specifications:
The mechanical keyboard comes in five themed designs, inspired by natural elements and Viking culture: Ariel, Aurora, Sakura, Summit, and Asgard. Each theme showcases its distinct style through the keycaps, metal case, and glass plate weight.
The Muse65 offers two types of Gateron magnetic switches: Magnetic White and Magnetic Jade, engineered for precise actuation and excellent tactile feedback.
- Magnetic White switches: Actuation range of 0.10-4.00mm, initial force of 30 ± 7gf, and end force of 50 ± 7gf.
- Magnetic Jade switches: Actuation range of 0.02-3.40mm, with the same force specifications.
Both switch types boast a lifespan of up to 150 million clicks, ensuring durability for intense gaming sessions.
Rapid Trigger Mode and High Polling Rate
The keyboard includes a rapid trigger mode for quick and accurate key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming, especially in FPS games. It features a high polling rate of 8000Hz and a total latency of just 0.2ms, ensuring near-instantaneous keypress registration.
Constructed with a full CNC metal case, the Muse65 offers a sturdy and stable feel. It uses an aluminum plate and a tray mount with 15 screws, combined with silicone padding for consistent sound quality without deformation. The RGB lighting, powered by independent Hall Effect chips, maintains sensitivity even at maximum lighting effects.
Customizability and Compatibility
The Muse65 is hot-swappable, allowing for easy switch customization. It supports N-key rollover and is compatible with both MacOS and Windows, although the driver system is currently available only for Windows, with a web driver expected in October. The keyboard also supports various customization options like multimedia keys, RGB lighting, and macro keys, accessible through the Varmilo HE Driver.
Measuring 31×11.2×1.9cm, weighing 1.2kg net (2.05kg gross), and featuring a 6.5° typing angle, the Muse65 is a compact yet robust choice for gamers seeking high performance and unique design.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing starts at $155, positioning it as a premium market option. The keyboard is available on Mechkeys and Varmilo’s official website.
Tags: Gaming Accessories, mechanical keyboard, Varmilo Muse65
July 30, 2024
8BitDo Retro87 Keyboard: Price, M-Frame, Kaihua Box V2 Switches
8BitDo has introduced its Retro87 M mechanical keyboard, which boasts a retro-themed design paired with an industrial look. This keyboard is notable for its distinctive M-shaped frame and detachable console, differentiating it from conventional designs. Priced starting at 499 yuan, the 8BitDo Retro87 M presents itself as an attractive choice for those in search of a stylish yet practical mechanical keyboard.
Customizable Super Keys
The Retro87 M blends aesthetics with functionality. It features PBT keycaps, Kaihua Box V2 white switches, and an upper structure design that ensures a gratifying typing experience.
One of the standout features is the inclusion of two customizable super keys, which provide additional versatility by allowing users to assign frequently used functions for easier access. The Retro87 M also supports Bluetooth, 2.4G, and wired connections, making it adaptable to various usage scenarios.
Design and Build
With its gray and white color palette, the keyboard aligns well with its retro theme. Its compact size and robust construction make it an excellent fit for different environments.
Tags: 8BitDo Retro87 M, Customizable Super Keys, mechanical keyboard
July 25, 2024
Corsair K70 Core SE Sakura Edition: Durable Mechanical Keyboard
Corsair has unveiled the K70 Core SE Sakura Edition mechanical keyboard in China, featuring linear red switches and a range of advanced functionalities. Here are the main specifications.
Corsair K70 Core SE Sakura Edition Specifications:
The keyboard is a full-size model with dedicated media and volume controls. It operates at a 1,000Hz report rate, ensuring quick and precise input detection.
Built with an aluminum panel, the keyboard has a robust and premium feel. The keycaps are crafted from cherry blossom-colored PBT material, and the legends are dye-sublimated for durability.
Additionally, it includes a magnetic wrist rest for added comfort during long gaming sessions and features a double-layer noise reduction structure to minimize typing sounds.
The keyboard employs Corsair’s second-generation MLX linear red switches. These switches are pre-lubricated at the factory for smoother keystrokes and faster response times.
They have a pressure coefficient of 459, an actuation distance of 2mm, and an impressive lifespan of up to 80 million keystrokes, making them exceptionally reliable for prolonged use.
Versatility and Compatibility
The keyboard also features a multi-functional scroll wheel, providing added versatility and control. It supports Corsair’s iCUE software, enabling users to fully customize RGB lighting effects.
Compatible with both PC and Mac systems, it requires a USB 3.0 or 3.1 Type-A port for connectivity and supports Windows 10 and macOS 10.15 or later.
The K70 Core SE Sakura Edition also offers full key rollover with 100% anti-ghosting, ensuring accurate registration of every keypress. It includes onboard memory for saving custom profiles and settings, media keys accessible via FN shortcuts, and a WIN lock function.
Pricing
Although the exact pricing for this new edition hasn’t been revealed, the standard K70 Core Sakura Edition is available for 799 yuan ($110).
Tags: advanced features, Corsair K70 Core SE Sakura Edition, mechanical keyboard
July 25, 2024
Hexgears Z2 Pro: Mechanical Keyboard with Display, Triple Connectivity
Hexgears has recently introduced its newest mechanical keyboard, the Z2 Pro, to the Chinese market. This keyboard stands out with its 1.14-inch TFT color display and a multifunctional knob. Let’s delve into its main features.
Hexgears Z2 Pro Specifications
The Z2 Pro features a 79-key arrangement with both the top and bottom covers crafted from aluminum alloy. It includes a double-stage footstand, which enhances its ergonomic design.
Inside, the Z2 Pro boasts a Gasket five-layer padding structure and a high-transparency acrylic hollow positioning plate. The switches are hot-swappable with a five-pin layout, allowing for effortless customization. The keycaps are made from dual-color PBT injection material, known for their durability and resistance to wear.
The keyboard uses Kailh Blackberry Ice Cream Pro switches, offering a linear and smooth typing experience. The switches have a total travel distance of 3.50±0.3mm, an actuation travel of 1.70±0.4mm, and an actuation force of 45±10gf. They support a mechanical lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes.
Multifunctional Features
The Z2 Pro also includes a multifunctional knob and a 1.14-inch TFT color screen on the right side. This screen can display various information, providing additional customization and functionality. The keyboard also supports RGB lighting effects, adding to its visual appeal.
The keyboard is versatile in its connectivity options, supporting wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connections. It offers a 1000Hz polling rate, ensuring minimal latency for a seamless user experience. The Z2 Pro is powered by a robust 5000mAh battery.
In terms of accessories, the Z2 Pro comes with a switch puller, a keycap puller, and a Type-C USB data cable. The keyboard dimensions are 330x147x48 mm, and it weighs 1546 grams. It is also compatible with custom driver software for further personalization.
Pricing and Availability
Hexgears will begin pre-sales for the Z2 Pro “Wild Flower” keyboard on July 26 at 10:00 AM. The keyboard is expected to be available for purchase on major e-commerce platforms shortly thereafter. It is priced at 729 Yuan ($100).
Tags: Hexgears Z2 Pro, Kailh Blackberry Ice Cream Pro, mechanical keyboard
July 17, 2024
Black Shark’s Black Emblem GD82 Custom Keyboard Launches
Black Shark Selection has unveiled the Black Emblem GD82 custom mechanical keyboard. Showcasing a mecha theme, this keyboard supports hot-swappable switches and boasts a battery life of around 160 hours. Initially available for 1,599 yuan, it is regularly priced at 1,799 yuan.
Premium Build and Customization
The GD82 features a full-key hot-swappable switch design and a gasket mount structure. It comes with a limited edition PBT keycap set designed for ergonomic comfort, a robust aluminum alloy body, and customizable RGB backlighting with advanced music rhythm effects. The keyboard supports full-key hot-swappable switches and utilizes a gasket mount structure with sound dampening foam. It also includes independent buttons for switching to wireless mode.
Connectivity and Additional Features
Providing both wireless (2.4G and Bluetooth) and wired connectivity options, the keyboard is equipped with a 4000mAh battery, offering up to 10 hours of continuous use and 360 hours of standby time. Other notable features include a dedicated volume control knob with mute functionality, KTT custom tea axis switches with gold-plated contacts, full-key anti-ghosting, and driver support for key remapping, lighting effects, and macro recording.
Tags: Black Emblem GD82, Black Shark Selection, mechanical keyboard
July 7, 2024
ATK Unveils Z87 Pro Mechanical Keyboard with Gasket Mount & Aluminum Top
Chinese peripheral manufacturer ATK has introduced the ATK Z87 Pro, a mechanical keyboard designed to appeal to both budget-minded consumers and performance enthusiasts. Let’s delve into its primary features.
ATK Z87 Pro Keyboard Specifications
The Z87 Pro features a compact 87-key layout, eliminating the num pad to create a space-efficient design favored by gamers and minimalists. This keyboard showcases a sleek semi-aluminum body with a CNC anodized metal top cover, combining durability with a premium look. Additionally, it includes built-in PVD decorative light strips that work in tandem with the keyboard’s backlighting.
The Z87 Pro offers a choice between Kailh Blueberry Ice Cream switches and Aniya switches, both of which are linear switches celebrated for their smooth keypress and speed. The keyboard also provides multiple keycap profile options, including MDA and OEM profile high-quality PBT keycaps, to ensure a comfortable typing experience.
Premium Typing Experience
The Z87 Pro features a Gasket structure that uses silicone pads to isolate the plate from the keyboard’s base, reducing typing noise and delivering a softer, more satisfying keystroke feel. This feature is generally found on more expensive keyboards, adding to the premium typing experience.
In terms of performance, the Z87 Pro boasts a 1ms response time, making it ideal for competitive gamers. Its 8000mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage. The keyboard supports three connection modes: wired, 2.4G wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0, offering versatile setup options.
Customization and Software
Equipped with a 16.7 million color ARGB lighting system, the keyboard allows extensive customization of its aesthetics. ATK includes its ATK HUB software, giving users detailed control over lighting effects, keyboard performance, and sensitivity settings.
Pricing and Availability
The ATK Z87 Pro is available in three color options: Silver, Ambient Side-Engraved, and Black. Pricing starts at an affordable 279 yuan (approximately $38) for the base model with Aniya switches. The version with Silver Blueberry Ice Cream switches is priced at 369 yuan (around $50). The keyboard is currently available on JD.com.
Tags: ATK Z87 Pro, budget-friendly, mechanical keyboard
July 5, 2024
Keychron B1 Pro Launches: Ultra-Thin Keyboard with 1200-Hour Battery
Keychron, renowned for its customizable mechanical keyboards, has introduced a new model named the B1 Pro to the Chinese market. This follows its global release in May this year. Let’s delve into its main features.
Keychron B1 Pro Specifications:
Weighing just 425 grams (0.94 lbs), the B1 Pro features a sleek 75% layout design with a body thickness of only 5.2mm, making it perfect for portability. The keyboard includes 77 keys, along with 12 multimedia keys.
The keyboard’s spherical keycaps are designed to fit the natural curvature of fingers, enhancing typing accuracy and comfort. Additionally, it comes equipped with scissor-switch keys that have a built-in 3.2° tilt angle for better ergonomics.
Versatile Connectivity
The B1 Pro is ideal for users who need to switch between multiple devices. It offers multiple connection options, including 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.2, and wired Type-C. Bluetooth 5.2 supports connections to up to three devices simultaneously, making it convenient for those who use desktops, laptops, and tablets. For low-latency gaming or tasks requiring the fastest response time, the 2.4 GHz connection provides a 1000 Hz polling rate.
The B1 Pro is compatible with various platforms, featuring a Mac layout but fully functional with Windows and Linux. It even retains the same multimedia and function key features as Apple keyboards, offering Mac users a familiar experience with improved tactile feedback from the scissor-switch keys.
Keychron provides a proprietary web-based driver for the B1 Pro, allowing seamless customization across Mac, Windows, and Linux systems. This driver lets users remap keys, create macros, and personalize keyboard layouts to enhance productivity.
Impressive Battery Life
One of the standout features of the B1 Pro is its exceptional battery life, lasting up to 1200 hours on a single charge. This equates to about 8 months of use with 5 hours of daily typing, significantly reducing the need for frequent recharging.
Pricing and Availability
The Keychron B1 Pro keyboard is priced at 238 Yuan ($33) and is currently available on Tmall in China.
Tags: Keychron B1 Pro, mechanical keyboard, Multi-Device Connectivity
July 4, 2024
Keychron K15 Max Low-Profile Alice Layout Keyboard Starts at $104
Keychron has introduced the K15 Max, a new model in their K Max lineup of mechanical keyboards. Priced starting at $104, it is available now on Keychron’s official website.
Keychron K15 Max Keyboard Specifications
The K15 Max is impressively thin, measuring just 17~22mm in thickness, making it one of the slimmest mechanical keyboards with wireless capabilities on the market. It utilizes Gateron MX 2.0 low-profile switches, providing options for tactile, linear, or clicky actuation.
This mechanical keyboard features a 75% Alice layout, an ergonomic design that positions the split spacebar and Fn keys in a more thumb-friendly location, potentially reducing strain and enhancing typing comfort during prolonged use.
The K15 Max comes with double-shot PBT keycaps, known for their durability and resistance to shine through. Keychron has also revamped the stabilizers on the K15 Max to reduce key wobble, especially on larger keys like the spacebar. The keyboard includes 22 RGB backlighting effects with additional customization options and three adjustable typing angles for better ergonomic comfort.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The K15 Max offers versatile connectivity options, including 2.4 GHz wireless with a 1000 Hz polling rate for low-latency gaming, Bluetooth 5.1 for connecting to multiple devices, and a wired USB-C connection for charging and wired use.
It features a 2000mAh battery, providing up to 110 hours of typing time with the backlight off and 64 hours with the RGB backlight set to the lowest brightness.
Customization and Pricing
Further customization is possible through Keychron’s QMK/VIA software. This open-source firmware allows for remapping keys, creating macros, and setting custom layouts for both Windows and macOS. Keychron has also launched their Keychron Launcher web app, simplifying the customization process for new users.
Keychron offers three configurations for the K15 Max: a white backlight version for $104, an RGB backlight version for $114, and a hot-swappable RGB backlight version for $124. The hot-swappable version allows users to change switches without soldering, enabling them to test different switch types to find their ideal typing experience.
Tags: Ergonomic Layout, Keychron K15 Max, mechanical keyboard