mechanical keyboard Archives | KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com/tag/mechanical-keyboard/ Daily Tech News for the Non-Techie Mon, 26 Dec 2022 19:11:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://knowtechie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cropped-LOGO-ICON-KNOW-TECHIE-FINAL01-01-COLOR-32x32.png mechanical keyboard Archives | KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com/tag/mechanical-keyboard/ 32 32 Finalmouse’s latest keyboard is basically a mini-TV for your hands https://knowtechie.com/finalmouse-screen-centerpiece-keyboard/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 18:40:42 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=264416 Because who needs a smartphone when you can just check your social media feeds on your keyboard?

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Finalmouse, a niche gaming mouse creator, announced its latest product: a mechanical keyboard with a built-in screen.

The $349 Finalmouse Centerpiece is the shape of any standard keyboard, but that’s where the comparison ends.

Are you ready for it? The keyboard features a screen underneath the keys that can show videos or respond to key presses.

To achieve this, the Centerpiece uses transparent mechanical switches and keycaps. That’s similar to how macroboards like Elgato’s Streamdeck work.

How it’s different is that the key switches are mechanical.

As a result, Finalmouse will offer two variants, a standard linear Cherry MX-style switch and a hall effect switch that utilizes magnets for actuation.

While regular switches only have an on-and-off state, the hall effect enables analog input.

In any case, Finalmouse’s hall effect keyboard switch has the ability to convey a range of information, similar to the triggers on a gaming controller.

Unfortunately, the company hasn’t said if the hall effect switches are set up for analog input. It’s possible they are using them to register digital on/off states.

Most importantly, the screen displays interactive animated visualizations. According to Finalmouse, the keyboard can store three skins at one time and doesn’t require a program running on your PC to work.

Equally important, the skins are powered by Unreal Engine 5, thanks to the keyboard’s onboard CPU and GPU. Additionally, it’s a 65 percent layout, so you get arrow keys but no F-row.

The Finalmouse Centerpiece costs $349. Previous products have dropped as short-run, hard-to-get items, and we expect this keyboard will follow that pattern.

The company says it will release early next year.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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The best mechanical keyboards (2022) https://knowtechie.com/best-mechanical-keyboards/ Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:10:03 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=105345 If you are looking to improve your desk setup, we've rounded up some of the best mechanical keyboards out there.

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Mechanical keyboards are having a bit of a renaissance. But what exactly makes one the ‘best,’ anyway, and what do you need to look for?

We firmly believe you should spend more on the things you use the most. TVs, your car, and yes, your computer keyboard.

With a bewildering array of options on the market, we’re here to give you some knowledge and our picks for the best mechanical keyboards.

What is a mechanical keyboard?

kono store whitefox with some keycaps removed
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

A mechanical keyboard has small switches under every key. That’s different from how membrane keyboards are constructed, which have a membrane over the entire keyboard with small rubber domes.

They essentially work like your light switches. When at rest, the central slider of the switch keeps the switch contacts from closing. Pressing down moves the slider out of the way, allowing the contacts to touch.

That sends a signal to the microcontroller on the keyboard, which then sends the corresponding signal to your computer.

As the individual switch design enables customizations, mechanical keyboards can come in many layout options. The most common are Full size, with 104/105 keys; TKL, with 88 or 87 keys, or 60 percent, which have 60 to 65 keys.

Can a mechanical keyboard be wireless?

Yes, mechanical keyboards can be wireless. You can find wireless mechanical keyboards from many manufacturers these days.

Some use Bluetooth to connect to your computer, while some use 2.4GHz wireless with a dedicated USB dongle.

Some of the best mechanical keyboards on the market

To save you from that membrane keyboard that came with your PC, here are some of the best mechanical keyboards on the market:

Planck EZ

planck 40 percent ortholinear keyboard
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Maybe you want to delve into the world of ortholinear keyboards. See, normal keyboards are staggered to mimic the design used on typewriters to slow typists down to prevent jamming.

Ortholinear keyboards are arranged in straight lines, which are said to make it easier to type. Of course, you must unlearn the muscle memory from years of the usual QWERTY layout.

The Planck EZ is all the fun of a custom keyboard without the stress. Hot-swap sockets mean you can change key switches at will, and you can choose from 11 types of key switches at ordering time.


Das Keyboard 6 Pro ($200)

Das Keyboard 6 Professional Media Controls

This full-sized keyboard has Cherry MX switches, and a dedicated media controls area with an oversized volume knob. It’s all-business, with a solid build and white-only LED backlighting for the keys.

We loved this keyboard when we reviewed it, with a 9/10 score. Adrift on a nostalgic trip, with the “sound of the brown switches remind[ing] me of typing on a typewriter.”


Logitech Pro X TKL ($150)

logitech pro x tkl
Image: KnowTechie

Logitech is known for its PC peripherals, but this TKL form factor keyboard adds something new to the range — hot-swappable key switches.

That means that if you don’t like the choice of linear, tactile, or clicky switches you bought, you can easily change them out.

You also get Lightsync RGB lighting, with the ability to save a lighting profile to the keyboard. That’s cool, so you can keep your favorite settings without having to install software on another machine.


ZSA Moonlander ($365)

zsa moonlander
Image: KnowTechie

Normal keyboards don’t always give you optimal ergonomics for typing, which is why split keyboards like the Moonlander exist.

You get all the keys of a 60-percent, split into two halves, and with some additional keys for ease of use.

Those keys in the thumb rest area can be programmed to anything you want, as can any other switch location. The Moonlander is also hot-swappable, with a dozen key switch choices at ordering time.


HHKB Hybrid ($322)

hhkb pro hybrid
Image: KnowTechie

While most mechanical keyboards use Cherry MX or its clones, boards like the HHKB Hybrid use Topre switches.

These are electrostatic capacitive sensors like on membrane keyboards, but on individual keys, and with springs that help them feel somewhere between the two.

Topre fans love the mix of tactile sensation, accuracy, and the deep “Thock” sound. The ‘Hybrid’ in the name is because you can use USB-C or Bluetooth to connect to your PC.


Razer Pro Type Ultra ($160)

razer pro type ultra
Image: KnowTechie

Did you know Razer makes professional peripherals as well as gamer-centric ones? Well, now you do. Using Razer’s own yellow switches, which are linear and silent, the Razer Pro Type Ultra is ready for some typing.

You get USB-C wired connectivity, or Bluetooth, or Razer’s 2.4GHz HyperSpeed dongle, which can also connect a Razer mouse at the same time.

It has fully programmable keys, 10-key rollover, and up to 214 hours of battery without the LED backlight on (up to 13 if using lighting).


Logitech G915 TKL ($230)

logitech g915 tkl
Image: KnowTechie

The low-profile keys on the G915 TKL might look laptop-esque but they’ve got all the tactile fun of mechanical key switches.

The best part isn’t the thinness, it’s the dedicated media controls, with a wide roller to handle volume changes.

Connectivity is handled by a removable USB-C cable, or Bluetooth, or Lightspeed 2.4GHz Wireless. YOu get 40 hours of battery life with the RGB backlight at full brightness, or substantially longer with no lighting.


Keychron Q1 (from $190)

keychron q1 keyboard
Image: KnowTechie

Keychron designs custom keyboards that don’t require you to drain your bank account. You get a double gasket mounting design for a better typing experience with just the right amount of bounce.

You also get sound-dampening foam — and case foam — to remove any unwanted echoes. Most of their keyboards, like this Q1, are also hot-swappable for further customizability.


Roccat Aimo 121 ($160)

roccat aimo 121 keyboard
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Roccat always turns out some solid peripherals, and this Aimo 121 is no exception. It’s got Roccat’s self-designed Titan switches, which are super-responsive, easy to clean, and show off your RGB lighting effects.

The brushed aluminum top plate and the Aimo lighting system both look great. Round that off with dedicated media keys, a remappable wheel, and macro functionality, and the $160 Aimo 121 is a winner.


Nuphy Air60

nuphy air60 keyboard
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Nuphy Air60 is an ultra-slim mechanical keyboard that is completely wireless.

It features low-profile and hot-swappable switches, all wrapped up in an eye-popping design. And it works with just about any device.

Additionally, its ultra-thin design makes it the perfect keyboard for working within tight spaces in the office or at home. Not to mention, it makes for an excellent travel companion.

The Air60 offers performance, comfort, and style in a compact 60% layout. And at just $109, there’s a lot to like.

Read our review: Nuphy Air60 wireless mechanical keyboard review


Are mechanical keyboards really better?

1up keyboards custom built keyboard
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Mechanical keyboards have a few improvements over membrane ones and one big drawback.

The benefits include the feel and sound of the key switches and NKRO or n-key rollover, which means your keyboard will register all the keystrokes you make.

The design means you can swap out individual switches if they fail. You might need a soldering iron with some keyboards, as not all have hot-swappable sockets for easy switch swapping.

Mechanical keyboards are also better for longevity. The switches last ten times longer than membrane domes and are replaceable. Many mechanical keyboards now come with metal enclosures, which last longer than plastic.

But not everything is perfect with mechanical keyboards. The main drawbacks are that they’re often more expensive and can be noisy when typed on.

Are mechanical keyboards better for typing?

cherry office keyboard
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Gamers love mechanical keyboards for the instant feedback when carrying out commands and the low reaction times. Those should translate to better typing ability, with a few provisos.

The biggest performance improver for mechanical keyboards is tactility. That’s true, whatever switch type you choose, from smooth linears, tactiles, or clicky switches.

That last type adds a click bar, which gives you additional auditory feedback when the switch is activated.

As with all tools, practice makes perfect. Buying a new mechanical keyboard won’t instantly make you a better typist. It might make you want to practice typing more, making you better.

The best mechanical keyboard for you is down to preference

We’ve covered a selection of our favorite mechanical keyboards. The thing about the mechanical keyboard hobby, is that it all comes down to personal preference.

Don’t like how one switch type feels? Fine, choose another one to slot into your hot-swappable keyboard. Same goes for sound, where it actuates, or even how the spring inside behaves when compressed.

We’ll cover fully custom mechanical keyboards in a future installment, but this should be a great jumping-off point.

Editor’s Note: How did we choose all the keyboards in this list? It’s easy – we tested many of them. On top of that, we spent hours researching user reviews, Reddit posts, YouTube videos, and more. But mainly, our first-hand experience is ultimately how we drafted our picks.

What are some of your favorite gaming and work keyboards? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Review: Nuphy Air60 wireless mechanical keyboard https://knowtechie.com/review-nuphy-air60-wireless-mechanical-keyboard/ Sun, 23 Oct 2022 17:01:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=249527 The Nuphy Air60 is an overall great keyboard. I genuinely enjoyed typing on it. Other than a few hiccups, this is an easy keyboard to recommend.

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The Good
The low-profile design is a nice touch
Colorful and eye-popping design
Hot-swappable keys
Satisfying sound signature
Pairs great with iPads
The Bad
No macOS software
The delete key is awkwardly positioned
The right shift key is a little small
The keys are slightly larger and flatter than I’d prefer
8.5
Overall

Running a website like KnowTechie involves a lot of typing. So it only makes sense to type on a keyboard that feels comfortable without sacrificing a ton of space.

For years, I used Apple’s Magic Keyboard, and while it did its job, the layout was small, eventually leading to hand cramps and stiffness.

Obviously, I needed a change.

This is where the Nuphy Air60 wireless mechanical keyboard comes into the picture. The Nuphy Air60 is a compact and lightweight mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable switches

nuphy air60 keyboard
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Over the past few months, the Air60 has been my daily driver.

I did all my writing on it: emails, blog posts, and the usual avalanche of bad tweets – the Air60 was there every step of the way.

So, is it the right keyboard for you? Does the Air60’s price justify its cost? Let’s dig in.

Editor’s Pick
air60 mechanical keyboard

Quick Verdict

The Nuphy Air60 is an excellent mechanical keyboard. Typing on it was smooth, and its sound signature is nothing short of a chef’s kiss. On the other hand, its layout may be challenging for some to type on, but it’s nothing a sharp learning curve can fix. 

Who is the Nuphy Air60 mechanical keyboard for?

The Air60 is a mechanical keyboard built for folks like me.

I’m not an expert on mechanical keyboards. Thankfully, I don’t have to be one with this keyboard.

The Air60 comes pre-built, and I can change the keys to any design of my choice with hot-swappable switches

And if customizable keys aren’t your thing, it’s an excellent keyboard for travel, tablet users, and even folks who prefer the feel of a mechanical keyboard over a laptop’s switch keys.

nuphy low-profile keyboard
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

In fact, the keyboard mounts on most existing laptop keyboards. In my case, I have the 2021 M1 MacBook Pro, and it fits on there like a dream.  

But, at the end of the day, it’s for people who want a simple typing experience with a bit of style, flash, and pizzazz.

Product specs

The Nuphy Air60 has a ton of features packed under the hood. Want to dive deeper? Check out all the product specifications in the table below.

Switch Type:Low-profile Gateron Mechanical
Layout:ANSI 60%
Number of keys:64 keys
Hot-swappable support:Yes
N-key rollover support:Yes
Backlight & sidelight:RGB-LED
Backlight modes:20
Sidelight modes:4
Connection Type:2.4G wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, or wired
Battery capacity:25000mAh
Battery life:Up to 48 hours (lab test result)
Connection type:USB-C
Compatible systems:macOS, Windows, Android, iOS
Angle:3.5º/ 6.5º with magnetic feet
Frame: Aluminum
Keycaps:PBT
Dimensions:11.7 inch x 4.2 inch x 0.67 inch
Weight:1 pound
nuphy air60
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Design 

The Air60 is a gorgeous keyboard. I mean, look at it. For something that gets typed on all day, Nuphy put a lot of thought into its design.  

The Air60 sits in an ultra-thin aluminum frame. In terms of height, the keyboard slopes from 22mm to 17mm. That’s thin for a keyboard, especially considering the 2500 mAh battery buried in the frame. 

The keyboard features COAST PBT spherical keycaps, which NuPhy claims as the “world’s thinnest” and “best low profile” options on the market.

The Air60’s elegant, minimalist design makes it stand out in the mechanical keyboard market.

The keyboard also features a new underside layout, which allows it to fit over built-in keyboards. This effectively offers a more tactile and satisfying typing experience than the shallow scissor mechanism.

nuphy coast pbt caps on office desk
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Typing on the Nuphy Air60

The Nuphy Air60 offers a solid typing experience. Within a minute of typing, I knew I would like it.

But with a little more time with it, I would also run into a few obstacles that I didn’t love. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of the Nuphy Air60. 

Here’s what I liked

  • Size: The keyboard is just the right size for my hands. It’s not too small, and it’s not too big. Every key is just a tap away. 
  • Sound Signature: If there’s one thing I LOVE about this keyboard, it’s how it sounds. I know this shouldn’t be a big deal, but I don’t think I have ever typed on a keyboard that was so satisfying to listen to. 
  • Prejudiced to big fingers: Big fingers and thin keyboards usually don’t mix. I can say this with experience. The Air60’s keycaps are big and chunky, so I never had to worry about accidentally triggering another keycap typing. 

What I didn’t like

  • Layout: While the 60% ANSI layout is fine, my main issue is the placement of some of the keys. For example, the delete and right shift keys. I’ll expand on that below. 
  • Learning Curve: As I mentioned above, the delete button is awkwardly positioned, and the right shift key is too small for my liking. This threw my whole flow off almost immediately. And when you’re focused on your work and hit the wrong key by mistake, it can be a real pain.
  • Sensitive Keys: This could be a bonus for some, but I found myself accidentally triggering keystrokes from time to time. I only experienced it when resting my finger on a key.
nuphy keyboard mechanical on office desk
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Alternative options to consider

More and more low-profile mechanical keyboards are popping up left and right, so if the Air60 doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, here are some other options.

ImageㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤProductPrice
<strong>Nuphy Air75</strong>9.0

Nuphy Air75Premium Pick

  • 75% layout
  • Various connection methods, including 2.4G, Bluetooth 5.0, and USB-C
  • 48-hour battery life
  • $129.99
Learn MoreReviews
Keychron K39.5

Keychron K3Best Runner Up

  • Wireless or wired connection
  • Low-profile Gateron switches
  • 75% layout 84-keys keyboard
  • $85.99
Learn MoreReviews
<strong>Corsair K70 Mk.2 Low Profile</strong>9.0

Corsair K70 Mk.2 Low ProfileBest for Desktops

  • CHERRY MX low-profile RGB key switches
  • Anodized aluminum frame
  • Multi-color RGB per-key backlighting
  • $99.99
Learn MoreReviews
<strong>Logitech G915 TKL</strong>9.1

Logitech G915 TKLCommon Favorite

  • Lightsync RGB
  • 40-hour battery life
  • Shockingly thin profile
  • $229.99
Learn MoreReviews
<strong>Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro</strong>8.2

Razer Deathstalker V2 ProFor gamers

  • 40-hour battery life
  • Chroma RGB
  • Low-profile optical switches
  • $249.99
Learn MoreReviews
air60 mechanical keyboard
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Pros / Cons

Pros

  • The low-profile design is a nice touch
  • Portability
  • Colorful and eye-popping design
  • Hot-swappable keys
  • Priced moderately fair
  • Excellent travel keyboard
  • Satisfying sound signature
  • Good introductory starter to mechanical keyboards
  • It pairs great with iPads

Cons

  • Average battery life
  • Keys are somewhat sensitive, leading to accidental triggers
  • No Linux support
  • The keys are slightly larger and flatter than I’d prefer.
  • The delete key is awkwardly positioned.
  • The right shift key is a little small
  • No macOS software
nuphy air60 connection types
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Final verdict

If you’re new to the mechanical keyboard game and don’t know where to begin your journey, the Nuphy Air60 is a great start.

It gives you everything you need in a customizable keyboard, plus more benefits than most of its alternatives.

Even the most seasoned keyboardist would appreciate it. Judging from all the positive Reddit posts and user reviews, the consensus is that users generally enjoy it.

My overall take? It’s an excellent keyboard, and I recommend it to most readers, except for a few personal caveats. 

For starters, it’s a great-looking keyboard; you can take it anywhere, and it works not just for laptops and computers – but it’s a great tablet and smartphone companion. 

But if you’re someone who doesn’t want to sacrifice their time learning a new keyboard layout, the Air60 probably isn’t for you.

But you’ll love how this keyboard performs if you can slug through the first few days.

6972969120287Nuphy Air60 Wireless Mechanical Keyboardhttps://knowtechie.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/nuphy-air60-wireless-mechanical-low.webpAir60 Wireless Mechanical KeyboardInStock109.95USD1445Nuphy

KEY POINTS

  • Portability

    This is one of the best travel keyboards anyone can add to their arsenal. Plus, it works hand-in-hand with tablets and smartphones.
  • Hot-swappable keys

    Don’t like how the keys look? No sweat, with hot-swappable keys, you can replace them with keys of your choosing.
  • Great starter keyboard

    The Nuphy Air60 is an excellent start to your customization journey if you want to get your feet wet with mechanical keyboards.
OVERALL RATING
nuphy wireless keyboard on office desk
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

Pricing and availability

The Nuphy Air60 mechanical keyboard costs $109.95. The NuFulio V2 traveling case/stand costs an extra $19.

Additionally, a pack of extra keycaps runs an additional $19, and extra switches cost $30 (100 pcs).

The Air60 is available via the company’s website, Amazon, and Newegg.

Nuphy Air60 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Verified
Staff Pick
Nuphy Air60 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
KnowTechie readers can save 10% when using promo code know10 at checkout at Nuphy.com
Rating
On-Going Offer

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Cherry MX’s new keyboard switch is a throwback to 2011 https://knowtechie.com/cherry-mxs-new-keyboard-switch-is-a-throwback-to-2011/ Thu, 20 Oct 2022 13:05:29 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=249905 The new switch is inspired by the community.

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Cherry MX just released a new mechanical keyboard switch, the tactile Cherry MX Ergo Clear.

The new switches have a 40 cN (centiNewtons) actuation force, but what’s interesting is that they have a higher force (55 cN) at the tactile point.

Switches with dual force have a tactile feel, so you know that every keystroke has been registered.

Cherry MX lubes every Ergo Clear switch at the factory with high-performance grease. That’s nice to see from a manufacturer, as lubing is one of the most common modifications people in the keyboard community perform.

cherry mx ergo clear force graph
Image: Cherry

What’s interesting about the MX Ergo Clear isn’t the new force graph or the factory lube-job. The switch was effectively created a decade ago–by a community member.

In the original thread on GeekHack, the online forum for keyboard enthusiasts, the community member made a “frankenswitch,” a mechanical keyboard switch that combines parts from multiple other switches.

They did a spring-swap and put the springs from MX Black switches into MX Clear housings.

This resulted in a tactile switch that was easier to press than MX Clears. They even suggested the name “ergo clear” at the time.

When Cherry MX’s patents dropped in 2014, multiple manufacturers started offering their own clone switches. The Zealio, manufactured by Gateron, was an imitation of the original “ergo clear” mod.

Cherry MX is now adopting both the name and the build for their new switches. The bonus is that Cherry MX has superb quality control, rating its switches to over 50 million presses.

Now a community favorite has an official home.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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What are hot-swap mechanical keyboard switches? https://knowtechie.com/what-are-hot-swap-mechanical-keyboard-switches/ Thu, 13 Oct 2022 19:34:37 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=247961 We'll tell you everything you need to know.

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The biggest quality-of-life upgrade you can do for your PC is a good keyboard. Mechanical keyboards are objectively better than other types, giving every keystroke a pleasing feel and sound.

The thing is, most mechanical keyboards have their switches soldered in place. That means you must be handy with a soldering iron to swap out the switches, which is daunting.

Not so with mechanical keyboards sold as hot-swappable. These are designed to let you easily swap out the switches at a whim, so you can experiment and find your perfect keyboard sound and feel.

What is a hot-swappable mechanical keyboard?

mechanical keyboard
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

When a mechanical keyboard is marketed as having hot-swappable switches, it’s designed with sockets that grip the switches and keep them secure.

That way, you can remove the switches with a basic switch-puller tool that looks like a pair of oversized tweezers.

Most mechanical keyboards with hot-swap capability will come with a pair of these tweezers, so you don’t have to buy another piece of equipment unless you want to.

This feature enables deep customizability, as you can change the switch type under each key to suit your preferences.

For example, you could have one switch type for gaming and swap them out for something quieter when you wanted to do work.

You could go even further, using one switch type on some keys, and another on others, to get the typing feel most suited to your fingers.

What switches can I use?

silent mechanical key switches
Image: Prime Keyboards

At one time, only Cherry MX could make mechanical key switches. Their patent ran out, and now you can get compatible key switches from multiple companies, like Outemu, Kailh, and Gateron.

With the rapid growth of the mechanical keyboard hobby, you can get all kinds of switches with exotic names and materials. These are often sold by smaller vendors or, in some cases, individual hobbyists.

The good news is that most key switches will work on most hot-swappable keyboards. With most hot-swap boards, you have an additional metal or plastic plate that helps keep your switches stable.

Switches can cost anywhere from cents each to $1.30 or so at the top end. Most are around $0.40 each and are often sold in packs of ten or 35.

You’ll want 3-pin switches with a large plastic pin in the center and two metal pins that provide electrical connectivity to the keyboard. There are also 5-pin switches, which have two additional plastic pins for stability on PCB-mount keyboards.

If you find you bought 5-pin by mistake, you can clip the two smaller plastic pins off, making them 3-pin. The reverse isn’t possible, so if you know you need 5-pin, you can’t use 3-pin switches.

What brands sell hot-swappable keyboards?

keychron q5 mechanical keyboard on yellow desk
Image: Keychron

Once a niche product, hot-swappable mechanical keyboards are now sold by mainstream brands. Corsair now sells a wireless, hot-swap board, the $180 K70 Pro. Logitech’s $150 Pro X keyboard also features hot-swap.

Keychron is one of our favorites for low-cost, high-quality keyboards in various form factors. There is any number of smaller or boutique brands that also sell hot-swap-compatible keyboards.

Do I want a hot-swappable keyboard?

Do you spend much of your time in front of a computer? Like to play games without using a controller? Have a thing for pleasing noises or feels?

If the answer to any of these is yes, you may already have a mechanical keyboard. Getting a hot-swappable keyboard takes that experience to the next level, as you can change your switches to suit your typing style.

You could even set up your keyboard for dual use, with the WASD cluster on hair-trigger speed switches and the other keys using typing-friendly ones.

The point is, having a hot-swap keyboard gives you choices, and who wouldn’t want that?

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post What are hot-swap mechanical keyboard switches? appeared first on KnowTechie.

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Review: Das Keyboard 6 Professional mechanical keyboard https://knowtechie.com/review-das-keyboard-6-professional-mechanical-keyboard/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 17:41:48 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=244406 Your fingers have a new best friend.

The post Review: Das Keyboard 6 Professional mechanical keyboard appeared first on KnowTechie.

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The Good
Hefty, aluminum frame
Cherry MX switches
The two USB-C ports come in handy
Media controls are a nice touch
White LED backlight isn't over-the-top
The Bad
It's an expensive keyboard for what it is
No palm rest
9
Overall

A keyboard is a crucial but often overlooked component of your PC setup. Besides using a mouse or trackpad, the typing experience is the only other tactile part of using your computer.

The keyboard has the capability to help boost your productivity. This is even more true for gamers, coders, writers, or anyone that uses their computer to create professional work.

The Das Keyboard 6 Professional was built for the go-getter, the gamer, and those that love great design and build quality. This mechanical keyboard is an absolute joy to use, but does it justify its $199 price tag?

Editor’s Choice
das keyboard 6 pro product shot

Quick Verdict

The Das Keyboard 6 Professional has been, hands down, the best keyboard I have used to date. The typing experience is second to none. Additionally, the build quality is outstanding, and the inclusion of the media controls and the 2-port USB-C hub round out a complete package.

Design of the Das Keyboard 6 Professional

mechanical keyboard with white led lights
Image: Steve Smith / KnowTechie

The Das Keyboard 6 Professional is built with high-quality components and an aluminum enclosure, leading to a hefty 2.89 pounds.

The keyboard uses premium components, and you can really feel the build quality as soon as you pick it up.

Between the rubber feet and the weight, this keyboard will stay firmly planted on your desk. You also get two removable screw-on feet if you want to lift the keyboard to tilt it slightly towards you.

It plugs into your computer with a USB-C cable, but Das Keyboard includes a USB-C to USB-A adapter if you need it.

This mechanical keyboard is full-sized, with 104 keys. I have a relatively small desk, and I loved the compactness of the design, measuring only 17.5 inches long and 5.31 inches wide.

The keys feature a white LED backlight with multiple brightness levels. Some might be disappointed with the lack of RGB lighting, but I love the white backlight. The white backlighting looks premium and professional.

Something that should be noted is that you won’t find any type of palm rest with this keyboard. While that is something I am used to, it may bother some potential customers.

Extra features

das keyboard control knob
Image: Steve Smith / KnowTechie

The Das Keyboard 6 Professional has a few extra features tucked away nicely in the top-right corner of the keyboard.

You get media controls, which include a play/pause button, a skip button, and an oversized volume control knob.

You also get a button that controls the backlight brightness and another to put your computer to sleep quickly. Just over the edge of the sleep key is where you will find the built-in 2-port USB-C hub.

Initially, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the oversized volume knob. It looked out of place and wasn’t something I was used to.

That went out the window the first time I had to adjust the volume on my computer.

I no longer have to look to adjust the volume, which is great if you ever find yourself on a video call. The size of the knob is easy to locate, and each turn of it results in a satisfying click.

Performance

das keyboard 6 professional keyboard with control knob
Image: Steve Smith / KnowTechie

Depending on your preference, the Das Keyboard 6 Professional comes with Cherry MX brown or blue switches. The brown switches have a 2.0 mm pre-travel, with a total travel of 4.0 mm.

The brown switches have an operating life of 100 million actuations. The blue switches have a 2.2 mm pre-travel, 4.0 mm of total travel, and an operating life of 50 million actuations.

Both types of Cherry MX switches come with full NKRO. As a quick refresher, NKRO allows each key press to be registered independently.

Full NKRO means that every keypress results in the corresponding keys displayed on the screen, regardless of how many you press at once.

My review unit came with the Cherry MX brown switches, and they have been an absolute joy to use. Every keypress registers with zero lag and has the perfect amount of travel.

I haven’t had any issues typing on the Das Keyboard 6 Professional. In fact, I have been more accurate and less error-prone with this keyboard.

The sound of the brown switches reminds me of typing on a typewriter. This nostalgic feeling makes me want to write more and truly elevated the experience for me.

Alternative Options to Consider

This brings me to the real question, is the Das Keyboard 6 Professional worth its $199 price tag? If you are a professional or use your computer to get work done, then it is absolutely worth it.

If you are looking for a random keyboard just so you can type a URL into your web browser, then no, this keyboard will be way more than you need.

But, you do have some viable alternatives worth checking out.

ImageㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤProductPrice
Logitech G610 mechanical keyboard9.6

Logitech G610 mechanical keyboardBudget Conscious

  • Cherry MX switches
  • White LEDs
  • Full-sized keyboard
  • $79.99
Learn MoreRead the Reviews
Corsair K70 MK.2 mechanical keyboard9.7

Corsair K70 MK.2 mechanical keyboardOne for the Gamers

  • Cherry MX switches
  • Full RGB and wrist rest
  • Profile storage options
  • $159.99
Learn MoreRead the Reviews
Eagletec KG010 mechanical keyboard9.2

Eagletec KG010 mechanical keyboardAll Business

  • Dust-proof Brown switches
  • No RGB or LEDs
  • Aluminum ABS construction
  • $36.99
Learn MoreRead the Reviews

Final verdict on the Das Keyboard 6 Professional

The Das Keyboard 6 Professional has been, hands down, the best keyboard I have used to date. The typing experience is second to none.

On top of that, the typewriter sound of the brown switches delighted me more than I thought it would.

Additionally, the build quality is outstanding, and the inclusion of the media controls and the 2-port USB-C hub round out a complete package.

If you are a professional looking for the best typing experience, you don’t have to look further than the Das Keyboard 6 Professional.

The Das Keyboard 6 Professional can be found on their website or on Amazon.

Editor’s Pick

Das Keyboard 6 Professional

The Das Keyboard 6 Professional has been hands down the best keyboard I have used to date. The typing experience is second to none.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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New Das Keyboard 6 Pro is all business at $199 https://knowtechie.com/new-das-keyboard-6-pro-is-all-business-at-199/ Tue, 27 Sep 2022 16:29:31 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=243036 Unlike many mechanical keyboards, this one features a business-casual design and basic LED backlighting.

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Anyone who knows me knows I love the feel of a mechanical keyboard below my fingertips. That’s why I’m excited Das Keyboard has a new entry in their Professional line, the $199 6 Pro.

The 6 Pro is a full-sized keyboard “built with the modern workday in mind.” The first thing that jumps out is the business-casual design, with matte black everything and subdued white-only LED backlighting.

The main selling point for Das Keyboard over the years has been the addition of a volume knob and media controls.

On the 6 Pro, that knob is frankly massive, so you’ll have no trouble tweaking it without looking down from your video calls.

das keyboard professsional 6
Image: KnowTechie

You get all the typing reliability you’d expect from a Das Keyboard. That includes full-time n-key rollover, so it won’t glitch out if you’re typing too fast.

The keycaps are doubleshot, so they’ll stand the test of time with legends that won’t rub off. The aluminum top enclosure won’t flex or creak, even under heavy gaming.

Das Keyboard also added two USB-C ports to the 6 Pro, so you can quickly charge your other devices or transfer data between them and your PC.

The only thing missing is the footbar that doubled as a ruler, which the 4 Pro had. Instead, Das Keyboard has included two screw-in brass feet if you prefer a steeper typing angle. This could be due to the cost of brass these days.

You can order the Das Keyboard 6 Pro with Cherry MX Blue (clicky) or Brown (tactile) switches from Das Keyboard. Pricing for either switch variant is $199 plus shipping.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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What are the typical mechanical keyboard sizes? https://knowtechie.com/what-are-the-typical-sizes-of-mechanical-keyboards/ Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:41:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=119682 Which one is right for you?

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If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard to buy right now to deck out your WFH setup, you might have noticed letter clusters in the names of some of the keyboards you were looking at. Those indicate keyboard sizes.

Abbreviations such as “TKL”, “1800-Compact”, “60”, and more could be turning what should be a simple purchasing decision into an eighth-grade language class.

Like most things, once they’ve been explained to you, they’ll no longer be mysterious symbols and numbers. They’ll be important pieces of information in your buying decisions.

We’ll show you how to make sense of the additional numbers and letters. That will help you find the mechanical keyboard best suited to your needs.

What size mechanical keyboard should I buy?

mechanical keyboard sizes chart
Image: u/Minehacks

As you can see in this keyboard size chart above, there are many different mechanical keyboard sizes. We’re covering the most common in this guide, from commercial manufacturers.

Different keyboard sizes might seem strange if you aren’t familiar with the different sizes, but they are quite common. On top of that, different mechanical keyboards work better depending on factors like space, hand size, and more.

Full-size

das mechanical keyboard mac professional
Image: Kevin Raposo / KnowTechie

If your keyboard is sold as full-size, it has the alphanumeric cluster, the navigational cluster, and the number pad, all separated horizontally.

It will also have a row of function keys across the top of the keyboard. Some keyboards have dedicated media keys and controls, such as the Das Keyboard model shown above.

The number of keys will differ depending on which region of the world you live in. American keyboards use the ANSI layout with 104 keys.

European keyboards use the ISO layout with 105 keys, and Japan uses the JIS layout with 108 keys. This used to be the most common keyboard size, but it’s been surpassed by smaller layouts in recent years.

1800-Compact

1800 compact keyboard
Image: KnowTechie

If you want all the keys from a full-sized keyboard but don’t want to take up as much horizontal space on your desk, the 1800-Compact is for you.

It’s basically a full-sized keyboard. The clusters in the usual navigation column are moved above the number pad, and the arrow keys fit in between the two resulting clusters.

Think of it as keyboard Tetris, just with that T-piece you hate actually fitting into your layout. Great if you don’t want to lose a dedicated number pad, but you also want a little more room for your mouse.

Tenkeyless / TKL

tenkeyless keyboard
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Feel that you don’t want a number pad or that a huge keyboard will take up too much space on your desk? Tenkeyless, also known as TKL, 87%, or 80% is probably the way to go for you.

It’s a popular layout for gamers for that reason. The shorter length of the keyboard gives them more space on their desk for using their mouse.

Its most common form is a full-sized layout without the number pad. That results in either 88 or 87 keys, depending on whether you use ANSI or ISO.

They’re easy to manufacture and adapt to as the layout is the same as full-size. They’re also usually lighter in weight if you transport your keyboard between multiple computers.

75 percent keyboard

75 percent keyboard
Image: KnowTechie

Losing keys from the layout isn’t the only way to reduce the size of your keyboard, and that’s how the 75 percent form factor was born. Basically, it’s Tetris at the point where your screen finally clears all the blocks at once.

It’s a form factor that’s gaining popularity, as you can have most of the keys from a Tenkeyless in a much smaller area.

The name “75 percent” comes from the size, with keyboards in this form factor, like the Vortex Race 3 above, taking up three-quarters of the desk space of a full-sized keyboard.

60 percent keyboard

computer and accessories on desk
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Now we get to the 60 percent form factor, my favorite. It’s usually just the full alphanumeric cluster, without the number pad or the function row from the top.

Sometimes the most-used parts of the navigational cluster, usually the arrow keys and some of the PageUP, PageDown, Del, and Home keys, are also crammed in.

Often, however, those have to be accessed through the Fn key as they get moved onto a second layer.

That change really increases the amount of desk space you can use for your mousing hand while keeping all the keys you need for FPS games easily accessible. Sometimes the arrow keys are kept, making it a 65 percent form factor.

MMO players might want to opt for larger form factors as the F-row gets used for skills.

40 percent keyboard

40 percent version
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Now we shrink the keyboard again, down to the 40 percent form factor. The number row disappears to a layer, as keyboard makers have 40 to 48 keys to work with here.

Anything that isn’t a letter key or the most used modifier keys such as Shift, Ctrl, Etc gets moved onto other programming layers. Special keys to navigate those layers are added, like on the Planck EZ we recently reviewed.

This form factor isn’t for everyone, as having to unlearn the usual QWERTY form factor and learn new layers takes time. Adding to the difficulty of relearning how to type is that the 40 percent form factor is often in ortho-linear layout as well.

That’s when the staggered keys you’re used to become nice orderly lines. Great once you get used to it, but not so great for overriding years of muscle memory.

Tenkey (number pad)

tenkey pad
Image: KnowTechie

Remember how a Tenkeyless is the full-sized form factor without a number pad? Well, the Tenkey is just the number pad.

It’s a bit of a misnomer, as they’ve usually got 21 keys, with all the keys you’d need for inputting figures into a database document or for use as a calculator.

They’re a great addition to your setup if you prefer to use one of the smaller form factors most of the day, with a dedicated number pad in case you actually need it. Plus, it’s a great excuse to buy another keyboard.

It’s all about finding the right keyboard size for you

Now you know all you need to know about the form factors that mechanical keyboards come in.

There are a few niche form factors we’ve not covered here, mainly macro pads with less than 10 keys or purpose-built controllers for games such as OSU!, but for most commercial keyboards, you now know everything you need about form factors.

What do you think? What kind of keyboard is best for you? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Das Keyboard’s MacTigr is a sleek new mechanical keyboard for Mac https://knowtechie.com/das-keyboards-mactigr/ Tue, 16 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=229159 It’s easy on the fingers, offers a full-sized layout, and is an absolute pleasure to type on

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Mac users now have another keyboard to add to their wishlist. Meet the MacTigr from Das Keyboard.

It’s a full-sized low-profile mechanical keyboard with Mac users in mind. And it’s the company’s latest addition to its Mac lineup since the previous 5QS launch in 2021.

MacTigr offers all the fixings a Mac user could ever ask for, plus more.

Features include Mac-specific keys, Cherry MX Low Profile Red mechanical switches, and low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps. On top of that, there’s a built-in 2-port USB-C hub too. 

side product shot of das keyboard mactigr keyboard on purple background
Image: KnowTechie

Additionally, it comes with a built-in volume knob, sleep button, and media controls. Equally important, to state the obvious here, yes, there’s a full numeric keypad, too. 

It’s built tough, as well. According to the company, the keyboard’s slim housing features a heavy-duty, matte black stainless steel top, and a gunmetal gray aluminum unibody

daskeyboard keyboard for macs on purple background
Image: KnowTechie

As someone who spent the better part of the day typing on the MacTigr, I can say this keyboard is a beast.

In short, it’s easy on the fingers, offers a full-sized layout, and is an absolute pleasure to type on. Expect a full review soon. 

The MacTigr is available for $219 starting Aug 16, 2022, at Das Keyboard or Amazon. The company expects a full international release sometime in mid-September.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Razer resurrects the DeathStalker name with three new keyboards https://knowtechie.com/razer-deathstalker-new-keyboards-2022/ Wed, 27 Jul 2022 15:03:42 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=222627 No, the cool SwitchBlade UI keys aren't coming back.

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Razer has brought the DeathStalker name back with three new mechanical keyboards. The keyboards feature a low-profile design, Razer Chroma RGB, and the most notable Razer feature: hefty price tags.

Compared to previous models, the original DeathStalker keyboards had chiclet-style laptop keys.

The latest incarnations have low-profile mechanical key switches, which use an optical laser as the actuation point. That means they’ll respond better than the older keys while feeling better to type on.

Here’s the new range of DeathStalker keyboards in all their RGB glory.

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro (wireless, $249.99)

razer deathstalker v2 pro keyboard
Image: Razer

The wireless DeathStalker V2 Pro has Razer’s Hyperspeed 2.4GHz dongle and Bluetooth 5.0. You can choose between Razer’s clicky or linear low-profile optical key switches and 40-hour battery life.

If you turn off RGB lighting, that battery life shoots up to around 200 hours. The slim plastic case has a durable aluminum top plate, and you get a roller for media controls.


Razer DeathStalker V2 (wired, $199.99)

razer deathstalker v2 wired keyboard on a a desk
Image: Razer

The wired version of the DeathStalker V2 is the same keyboard, without the two wireless connectivity features. The cable is USB-C and detachable, so you can remove it for transport or replace it if it gets damaged.


DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL (wireless, $219.99)

razer deathstalker tkl keyboard
Image: Razer

The DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL gives you all of the features of the full-sized version, except for a numpad. You get the same choice between Razer’s clicky or linear low-profile mechanical switches.

Additionally, you also get Bluetooth, and a 2.4GHz dongle, so you can choose your connectivity. Battery life is up to 50 hours on the TKL, and you get all the Chroma RGB you’d expect from a Razer product.


The DeathStalker name is back

While Razer may have brought the name back, it’s a pale imitation of the original. Let’s not forget the OG DeathStalker Ultimate, which had a touchpad LCD and Switchblade keys, which are very similar to the Stream Deck’s keys.

The only real connection between the two is the low-profile keys, which are thankfully now mechanical switches.

The full-size DeathStalker V2 Pro is available now, with the other two models coming later in Q3.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Corsair’s new gaming keyboard is its most expensive one ever https://knowtechie.com/corsairs-new-gaming-keyboard-is-very-expensive/ Fri, 15 Jul 2022 15:22:21 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=217645 The K70 Pro Mini lets you quickly swap switches, no soldering skills required.

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Corsair has a new 60% form factor mechanical keyboard, the $180 K70 Pro Mini Wireless. It’s the most expensive keyboard they’ve ever made, and we’ll tell you why.

At least, we’ll attempt to explain why this is Corsair’s most expensive keyboard. See, the K70 Pro Mini Wireless is essentially the K65 Mini, which sells for $110.

Both keyboards are 60% form factor, which means they have the main alpha keys, but things like the function row are handled by a modifier key. Both have per-key RGB and come with genuine Cherry MX mechanical keyboard switches.

READ MORE: Corsair now has a ridiculous, bendable OLED gaming monitor

The added cost comes from added features. Corsair has added wireless capabilities to the K70 Pro Mini, with three-device Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz dedicated dongle.

That also means an internal battery, which is nice because it removes the hollow sound of Corsair’s wired keyboards.

The biggest addition, however, is hot swap switch sockets. This means you can put any MX-compatible mechanical keyswitches into the K70 Pro Mini Wireless.

Don’t like the linear feel of the MX Red or Speed switches Corsair offers? Buy some from your favorite vendor, pop off the keycaps, and swap in your new switches.

It’s a good thing, but we are concerned about how expensive this mechanical keyboard is. Many other vendors have a similar 60%, wireless keyboard with hot-swap functionality.

Sure, most of those don’t have Corsair’s iCUE software to control lighting effects and other things, but they also don’t have the same price tag.

Has Corsair priced itself out of the mechanical keyboard market with the K70 Pro Mini Wireless? $180 is a high price to pay, but it has some advantages, including the company’s dedication to aftersales service.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Keychron’s new keyboard is small but still fits a numpad https://knowtechie.com/keychrons-new-keyboard-is-small-but-still-fits-a-numpad/ Wed, 15 Jun 2022 12:52:27 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=207764 It uses the lesser-known 1800 layout to fit everything on the keyboard.

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Keychron has been doing well lately, with multiple in-stock releases in the often-sold-out mechanical keyboard market. Its latest offering is the Keychron Q5, which uses the 1800 layout, the first “stock, full-metal 1800 layout mechanical keyboard on the market.”

Starting at $185 fully assembled with your choice of Gateron G Pro Red (linear), Pro Blue (clicky), or Pro Brown (tactile) mechanical switches, it’s a slightly-more-compact version of a normal 104-key keyboard.

It comes in blue, gray, and black, and has an all-aluminum case.

Many mechanical keyboard fans prefer to add their own switches and keycaps. Keychron knows this and also sells a barebones version for $165. A programmable volume knob costs another $10 on top.

The rest of the Keychron Q5 draws on the company’s successful prior releases, like the $169 Q1 and Q2. The PCB is hot-swappable, which lets you add your choice of switches without a soldering iron.

Keychron also used a double-gasket construction, which enables the keyboard to flex slightly when you type. This makes it more enjoyable to use for extended periods of time.

If you don’t like its layout, you can reprogram what every single key does in either QMK or VIA, the most popular mechanical keyboard firmware types.

READ MORE: Review: Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE keyboard

Keycaps for both Windows and Mac users are included, as well. And the cable is a detachable USB-C, so you can swap to any cable you like.

The Keychron Q5 is available now, from $165 for a barebones model, or $175 for a fully built version. We suggest getting the fully built option, you can always keep the switches and keycaps for spares if you prefer another type.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Logitech launches new low-profile mechanical keyboards https://knowtechie.com/logitech-launches-low-profile-keyboards-new-mouse/ Tue, 24 May 2022 14:59:53 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=203173 They released a refreshed MX Master 3 mouse, as well.

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Logitech just launched two new wireless mechanical keyboards and a refreshed version of its most popular desktop mouse. That’s the MX Mechanical and MX Mechanical Mini keyboards, and the MX Master 3S.

The new MX Mechanical keyboards use Kailh’s Choc V2 mechanical switches. That means a choice of tactile quiet brown switches, clicky blues, or linear reds.

They’re low-profile, so they’re closer to Logitech’s membrane keyboards in height and keystroke length.

READ MORE: Logitech’s latest webcam can tilt to show the contents of your desk

Both keyboards are wireless, with up to 15 days of battery life with the backlight on, or a staggering 10 months if you turn off the lights.

Logitech added sensors to check if your hands are near the keyboard, which turn the backlighting off if they’re not.

READ MORE: Logitech’s new inclusive gaming accessories are nice but expensive

READ MORE: Review: Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE keyboard

The MX Mechanical is a traditional full-sized 104-key keyboard, while the MX Mechanical Mini is more compact, with only 80 keys. That’s pretty much every key except the numpad.

Time for a new Logitech mouse?

logitech mx master mouse
Image: KnowTechie

READ MORE: Keychron’s new keyboard is small but still fits a numpad

The MX Master 3S appears to be a refresh of the existing MX Master 3 mouse. It’s got quieter click buttons, and a more sensitive sensor.

It also now uses Logi’s Bolt USB dongle, a more secure version of Bluetooth LE for those companies that block the protocol used on the previous Unifying receiver.

As it’s otherwise essentially the same mouse, expect a right-handed, sculpted ergonomic shape, and scroll wheels for up/down and left/right.

READ MORE: Logitech’s iconic gaming mouse is getting a huge refresh

The new Darkfield sensor is at 8,000 DPI, twice the resolution of the previous device. Logitech also says the new click buttons are 90 percent quieter than the MX Master 3.

The Logitech MX Master 3S comes in Black, Graphite, or Pale Gray for $99.99. The MX Mechanical is $169.99, and the MX Mechanical Mini is $149.99.

All three models are available from Logitech, with free shipping. A bundle with the MX Master 3S and MX Mechanical and a desk mat is $269.98, or one with the MX Mechanical Mini is $249.98.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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What are the quietest mechanical keyboard switches? https://knowtechie.com/what-are-the-quietest-mechanical-keyboard-switches/ Mon, 09 May 2022 18:48:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=119256 All switches are not created equal.

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Mechanical keyboards are awesome for PC gaming. They can be noisy, but that’s fine if you are playing alone. If you play multiplayer or stream your gameplay, however, you’ll want to know about the quietest mechanical keyboard switches.

You don’t want to drive away your loyal Twitch viewers or your teammates if you play competitive esports titles with a loud, obnoxious keyboard.

That means you could either go back to a boring membrane keyboard or learn about the types of keyboard switches that are best for gaming.

With so many different options to choose from, how do you pick the ones that won’t sound like a machine gun going off?

What are the quietest mechanical keyboard switches?

Short answer: Anything that’s either labeled as “tactile” or “speed”, or the new “silenced” options

Once you rule out any “clicky” switches, the main source of sound is from “bottoming out” or pushing the key switch to the end of its travel distance and literally hitting the bottom of its slide. You’ve got two options here to make less noise while you’re frantically tapping keys.

mechanical keyboard guts
Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Either you go tactile and get used to the physical ‘bump’ sensation to train your fingers to bottom out less. Or you go for “speed” switches with their lower actuation point, and get used to the short distance you need to tap them to perform commands.

You could go for normal “linear” switches as well, but they have a longer actuation point so you wouldn’t have as long to travel after activating the keypress to stop from bottoming out.

Silence that mechanical keyboard

silent mechanical key switches
Image: Prime Keyboards

Some manufacturers of mechanical keyboard switches also make silenced switches. These usually have a small section of rubber on the stem, which mutes the sound of the switch.

This does have the effect of making the switches feel mushy, which you might not enjoy. They’re also not the best switches for gaming, because of the slower feel.

READ MORE: How do mechanical keyboard switches work?

There are a few other things you can do to limit the sound your key switches make as well. Putting O-rings over the stems acts as bumpers to stop you from bottoming out. You could get thicker keycaps, as the ones that come with most keyboards are thin and amplify the noise.

You could also open your keyboard, and add a layer of sound-dampening foam below the circuit board, reducing the ability for sound to echo inside the case.

The biggest sound dampener that we’ve tried? Using a thick deskmat, which reduces the reflections of sound from your desk. While there’s so many vendors, we love CannonKeys, and the Rainbow Dino print that’s on our desk currently.

What do you think? Plan to update or upgrade your keyboard to make it a bit quieter? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Review: The Vissles LP85 wireless mechanical keyboard https://knowtechie.com/review-the-vissles-lp85-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-a-small-but-mighty-wonder/ Fri, 03 Dec 2021 21:23:32 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=171657 I've always wanted a mechanical keyboard, but I've never really used a desktop enough to justify it. This option changes that.

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The Good
$99 for a $200 feel
A plethora of lighting options Incredibly satisfying typing
Incredibly satisfying typing
The Bad
Confusing defaults
Gaming can be awkward
7.8
Overall

If you’re anything like me, you might see mechanical keyboards as an almost mythical piece of tech. One that elevates gamers from mere players to esports enthusiasts. Something that transforms traditional office workers into productive members of society.

A lot of the time, they’re also desk-dominating behemoths that need a huge, sturdy frame to house their weighted keys. Vissles doesn’t believe in this idea, though.

Launching the LP85 Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard on Kickstarter, this awesome little surprise packs a high-end feel into a positively tiny form.

Take a look at these keys

vissles keyboard
Image: Marc Townley / KnowTechie

Stunning to look at, it instantly impresses with a beautiful aluminum case that demands your attention. The black keys coordinate and elevate the look, while the white prints on each one give a mono contrast. All these elements combine to offer something that’s slim, sleek, and sophisticated. If you’re looking for a minimalist office setup, you really can’t go wrong.

Vissles saw fit to include an RGB function, along with 19 different lighting effects. From simple rainbow cascades to a dynamic ripple effect as you press each key. Lights that switch off as you press individual keys or a random blinking effect. 

READ MORE: How to choose the right mechanical keyboard for you

The options cover almost everything you could ever want or need, and you can switch directions, dim and brighten the lights, or even change their speed. It’s all so ridiculously excessive but really makes it feel like a premium product.

At 0.47 inches high, it’s actually the slimmest mechanical keyboard in the world. And at less than 500 grams, it also slips easily into my Thule laptop bag whenever I’m heading out to waste some time in the office. With room to spare for lunch!

Looks aren’t everything

vissles keyboard no rgbs
Image: Marc Townley / KnowTechie

All this gushing about the looks would be for nothing if it didn’t have the function to go with it. Luckily, the LP85 delivers in this area too. Battery life is fantastic, with 2000mAh packed inside. If you do let the juice run out, though, it’ll still connect via the USB-C cable and recharge even when in use.

In all the hours I’ve used it, I’ve experienced precisely zero lag. This is all thanks to the fact it uses light beams instead of metallic contacts for signals. So provided you’re in range, there’s no interference, no cutting out, and no issues with the Bluetooth connection.

Speaking of which, connection initially stumped me, but that was me being more than a little dim. I pressed all sorts of buttons, connected it via cable, and tried to see if I could access it in an option that way. I even tried holding different keys in combination with the Control key. 

Turns out all of that was wrong. Holding the fn key along with P for five seconds sets it up for pairing. After that, it was entirely painless with everything I tried it on. Seriously. EVERYTHING. PC, Mac, Android, it all connected, and connected effortlessly. 

You can even pair up to three separate devices and switch between them all at will. Unlike some Bluetooth-connected tech, which requires you to switch off the receiving gadget before you can swap to something else, there are commands that will switch in and out at will.

The hardest button to button

vissles mechanical keyboard
Image: Marc Townley / KnowTechie

That satisfying ‘clack’ of keys is present and correct. And to be honest, I’m so surprised by that. For something less than an inch thick (although I told my partner it was three inches, just so she didn’t catch me out on the lies about ‘little Marc’s measurements), all I expected was a typical ‘click, click, click’.

Instead, it gives you that old-school Mad Men vibe as you type. You really do feel like you’re making big decisions whenever it’s in front of you. 

The only thing missing is the classic typewriter ding, but you can probably find a way to replicate that sound after every line to really immerse yourself in ’60s culture. Minus the sexism and racism, obviously.

Minor annoyances

wireless mechanical keyboard
Image: Marc Townley / KnowTechie

After all the positivity, you might be wondering why a perfect score wasn’t awarded. Well, I have two small bugbears. Let’s get the petty one out of the way first. CTRL + Tab usually switch your windows, right? It’ll take you from the Incognito tab you’re using to browse Orange YouTube to the Excel file you’ve got open directly behind it for emergency purposes.

This keyboard doesn’t do that. To switch windows you actually need to press command + Tab. That extra second and a half where my hand responded to the signals from my brain created so many instances of frustration. 

It happens even with the Windows version of the keyboard. It turns out that whichever version you get, it’s defaulted to Mac OS keys. You can switch it, so, like I said, super petty. But if a Windows keyboard drops at my doorstep, then I want to use Windows command from the jump.

My second problem and this is admittedly even more nitpicky, is that gaming can be slightly awkward. The small footprint means everything is a little bit more compressed than normal, full-sized keyboards, so it can be tough to keep your fingers placed in the WASD formation. It’s not as though my hands are the size of catcher’s mitts, either. In fact, my hands are pretty damn small. 

This definitely isn’t something that will affect all users, though. If you’re a serious enough gamer to be investing in a mechanical keyboard, you’re going to want one with all the bells and whistles to give you the edge.

Hotkeys, full arrows, and number pad, all that jazz. I wouldn’t mind so much, but the Kickstarter page specifically calls out its functionality as a gaming device.

Vissles LP85 Low Profile Aluminium Wireless Mechanical Keyboard: The final verdict

I’ve always wanted a mechanical keyboard, but I’ve never really used a desktop enough to justify it. This outstanding concept completely negates the idea that I have to use it in a traditional desk and tower environment.

I use it when I’m working from home and my TV is acting as a monitor. I use it in the office with a dual-screen set up (I’m usually streaming Netflix or WWE Network on the second screen, but that’s beside the point.)

What I’m trying to say is, small foibles like the mixed-up CTRL/function keys and gaming usability aside, this $99 (at the time of the Kickstarter) Vissles keyboard is an absolute revelation to me. It just has it all.

The incredibly slim metallic form. A satisfying click every time you tap a key. Hell, the RGB was entirely unnecessary, but I absolutely adore it. I simply cannot recommend this keyboard enough.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Review: Cooler Master SK622 Bluetooth gaming keyboard https://knowtechie.com/review-cooler-master-sk622-bluetooth-gaming-keyboard/ Tue, 03 Aug 2021 20:30:18 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=158094 This compact wireless keyboard is designed for gaming on the go.

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The Good
Solid build
Looks very cool
Compact for on-the-go gaming
The Bad
Right shift key is pretty small
Delete key is in a weird spot
8.4
Overall

When it comes to keyboards, there are many different factors to consider when you’re looking for the perfect fit. There are many different keyboard layouts, as well as different shapes and sizes for various uses.

Today, we’re going to take a look at the Cooler Master SK622, a Bluetooth mechanical keyboard with a super compact size made for gaming on the go.

Wireless keyboards have come a long way over the past few years, and this particular design from Cooler Master is an example of the originality that can be found in today’s keyboards. The SK622 is 60% layout, meaning there’s no number pad, and the whole right side of the keyboard is somewhat rearranged to fit everything necessary in as compact a space as possible.

The SK622 is a mechanical gaming keyboard, designed mostly for on-the-go gaming, but the keyboard is fully functional and capable of any kind of typing you may need to do. I’ve been using this keyboard for a little over a week now, so I’ve become pretty comfortable with it. So, let’s get into this review.

What’s on the inside?

cooler master gaming keyboard
Image: Alex Gatewood / KnowTechie

First I want to get a little into what the SK622 is made of. While the keyboard is branded as a Bluetooth keyboard, it can also be used wired, which is how I’ve been using it most of the time. I did hook it up wirelessly a few different times for a couple of hours at a time, and it performed perfectly.

READ MORE: Review: Cooler Master CK721

The battery never ran out on me (though I never used it wirelessly for more than a couple of hours at a time), and I never noticed any kind of lag when using the keyboard wirelessly. To be fair, that could be contributed to the greatly diminished reaction times that seem to have hit me like a dump truck in the last couple of years.

The SK622 has low-profile mechanical switches, meaning you don’t have to press down as far to activate a key. The keyboard comes with red, brown, or blue switches, all with different sounds and feedback. The model I used has the blue switches, which were a little loud for my preference but not overwhelming.

The keyboard feels very solid and has a nice brushed metal plate behind the keys. The device weighs in at right around one pound, making it very convenient for pairing up with any kind of portable device.

Speaking of pairing, the SK622’s Bluetooth function works flawlessly and easily. The keyboard is able to store up to three different paired devices, so you can have it paired up with your smartphone, tablet, and console with no problems. You can seamlessly switch between devices, making this keyboard a super convenient mobile option.

How does the SK622 feel?

purple lights on keyboard
Image: Alex Gatewood / KnowTechie

So now we’ll get into the more important aspect of a keyboard: how does it feel to type on the Cooler Master SK622? As I said earlier, the blue mechanical switches are a little louder than I would personally choose, but it is by no means overwhelming. I’ve been in many lobbies with little Jimmy and his Razer keyboard with the loudest switches possible going off through an open mic, and these blue switches are nothing like that.

In fact, the sound has grown on me a little over time. I can definitely see how people, especially gamers, can like that audible feedback. Beyond the sound, I absolutely love the switches on this keyboard. The low profile lets me press keys a little bit quicker, which at least feels like it’s helping in games like Apex Legends, where I need all the reaction time help I can get.

The keys themselves also feel very good, with a matte finish and ergonomic design. For the most part, typing on this keyboard is super nice. However, I’ve got one complaint, and it’s somewhat unavoidable for a keyboard this size.

What about that 60% layout?

sk622 keyboard
Image: Alex Gatewood / KnowTechie

Typing overall can definitely be a bit frustrating at times with the small form of the SK622. While I knew I’d miss the 10-key number pad on the right side for certain situations, the fact that it is missing is the least of my concerns with this keyboard. The redesign of the right side of the SK622 keyboard still messes me up.

To start, the delete key is moved to a strange location on this keyboard. This one isn’t too bad, as I don’t use the delete key too much while typing, but I did find myself having to think a lot more when needing to delete something. The worst part, by far, is the shift key on the right side.

To make everything fit better, the right-side shift key is super small. Fortunately, this isn’t a terrible thing for gaming, as most of the keys you need are on the left and unchanged. However, it can become a bit of an issue when you are actually typing.

I’ve got fat fingers, so I find myself accidentally pressing the up arrow at the same time I press shift on the SK622. It has definitely gotten better the longer I’ve been using the keyboard, but I still find myself accidentally pressing multiple keys at once when trying to use that right shift key.

Should you buy the Cooler Master SK622?

All in all, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the Cooler Master SK622. Aside from the few small issues over the layout of the right side (that really can’t be avoided when delivering a keyboard of this size, to be fair), I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this keyboard.

Of course, you should consider what you are looking for in a keyboard. If you are looking for a keyboard that you primarily plan on using for typing, then the smaller form of the SK622 might not be for you. However, for gamers looking for a small-form wireless mechanical keyboard that they can take on the go, this might be the perfect option.

The Cooler Master SK622 goes for $119 on Amazon, putting it near the higher end of the price of standard wireless, gaming keyboards. At that price, however, the SK622 is a solid option for gamers looking for a versatile keyboard that they can take with them for gaming on the go.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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What’s on our desk? Hardware Editor edition https://knowtechie.com/whats-on-our-desk-hardware-editor-edition/ Mon, 26 Oct 2020 20:45:20 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=130284 Yes, I use QR codes to manage review inventory, and no, I'm not ashamed.

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Half a year ago when we realized work from home was going to be the norm, I’m not sure we thought it was going to still be the norm going into the end of the year. Commuting is down to a bare minimum now even for those office workers that have started to trickle back into their office spaces, and sofas, bedrooms, and dining rooms have all been co-opted into working spaces.

The team here at KnowTechie were already working remotely before this new change, but not necessarily from home as one of our editors preferred to use a WeWork style communal working space to keep on task. With those provisions no longer a viable option, just how has our team adjusted to the new norm? It’s not just individual working arrangements that have changed, kids aren’t at daycare or are studying from home too, and significant others or roommates (or even pets!) are all vying for the same space to get some work done.

I guess I’ll take the first turn under the spotlight since my desk is usually in some semblance of photo-ready as I’m almost always testing out the newest gadgets that have been delivered. I’m the Hardware Editor here at KnowTechie, which really just means I’ve got dedicated time each week to handle the majority of our review content. When I’m not chasing my toddler around the room, I’m scouring the internet for the latest gizmos and tech to bring to your screens.

I’ll be, umm, interviewing myself, so please sound off in the comments section if there’s something you spy on my desk that I didn’t cover, and you need to know about it.

So, err, how do we start? Maybe talk about your workspace?

desktop label printer

Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

The thing nobody tells you about becoming a hardware reviewer is just how much space you’ll need. I mean, think of all the products we review yearly. That’s all got to be stored somewhere, preferably cataloged so I can find it later on to rerun tests or create new images. After far too long of just lumping things into boxes wherever they fit, I finally got organized this year during the stay at home orders.

I’ve been using Sortly to manage everything coming in and out, and where it’s stored in my home. Everything gets a QR code on arrival, created on the Brother P-touch CUBE XP label maker, which gets scanned into Sortly and then tagged with where the item is stored, what date it arrived, a link to the product page, and price. That stops me from having to search for things when I need them for conducting the review and also has most of the pertinent information so I don’t have to search for that as well.

I know I could scan the box barcode into Sortly, but not everything comes with a retail box. Keeping the routine consistent keeps me from forgetting anything. I also make custom labels for any device-specific power supplies or cables, so I don’t have to worry about those getting mixed up later. There’s nothing quite as bad as plugging an AC/AC power brick into a device that needs DC power…

And yes, I know it’s a mess. A functional one, but a mess nonetheless. Oh, and I’ve got a pair of Kinis Nomad either on my feet or under my desk. I’ve always had trouble with how wide my feet are, but these fit like socks and give me enough traction and protection that I can run after the mailman or my toddler without worry.

Wait, just how many audio devices live on your desk?

schiit audio stacks

Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

It’s true, there is rather a lot of audio equipment on and around my desk. That’s partly why my ultrawide monitor lives on an adjustable arm, so I get more desk space to put other devices on. I’m the main headphone reviewer here, with anything from low-cost IEMs to high-end planars and everything in between in rotation on my desk, so I need quality audio sources to really get to grips with how the headphones behave. I’ve got two steaming piles of Schiit to be exact, with the recommended first step on the audiophile journey of the Modi and Magni stack, the mid-range Modius, and Magnius, which adds balanced signal paths and a truly remarkable DAC, and the magnificent Valhalla 2 tube amp for adding warmth to clinical-sounding headphones.

That’s joined by any number of headphones, with the Meze Audio Rai Solo being the current pair of IEMs I’m testing out. After recently reviewing the Audient EVO 4 interface, that’s now going to live on my desk mainly for any work-related video or voice calls.

The LUMI keyboard from ROLI just landed as well, so I’ve been toying around with that on my iPad Pro. It’s a pretty cool idea, a light-up MIDI keyboard that’s also a Rock Band-esque tool to learn how to play music. My musical days ended during grade school, but my SO was a professional piano player so it’ll be fun seeing her take on this.

The bad part about this is that I’m always worried that I’m going to sweep devices onto the floor by accident. That’s why everything I can have Pitaka’s aramid fiber MagEZ cases on, from my iPhone 11 Pro to my iPad Pro, I do. That last one is cool because it lets your iPad Pro recharge while the Magic Keyboard has its USB-C plugged in, thanks to the magnetic contacts on the case.

I see where this is going…

underneath my desk

Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

The thing about having lots of devices on your desk is that keeping them all powered is a veritable nightmare. That’s made worse by the iffy wiring job in this apartment, which destroyed my PC a few times before I bought two Furman A/C conditioners to serve as clean power to plug everything in. Only one is plugged in right now though, as I need to find the time to move everything and install both with some rackmount sections I picked up to attach to the underside of the desk. They were expensive, but then I’ve not had to replace any hardware plugged into them since, so they were totally worth the expense.

I don’t really use the power strip on the side of my desk anymore, but it’s all wound into the cable tidy underneath and I dread unwinding that… Most of my mobile devices have wireless charging, but I don’t like having more wires snaked across my desk to a pad, so I got this nifty kit from Eggtronic that lets you mount a wireless charging pad into the top of your desk. It was a little nerve-wracking drilling deeply into my desk, but now I can just lay down my phone on the tiny LED glow and get power.

Okay, and that empty monitor arm?

Ohhhh… well, that’s more down to laziness than anything else. I’m still deciding between putting a drawing tablet display or my calibrated photo editing monitor on there. I’d love enough space to put both, but I just don’t think I can put three screens in the space I have to work with.

So, what tools help you with your job?

keyboard and mouse

Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

We’ve covered my photography setup previously, so I want to discuss the things that live on my desk. I use an external controller for most of my editing shortcuts, the Loupedeck CT, so I don’t need as many keys on my actual keyboard. I’ve loved the HHKB since it arrived, and have reluctantly unplugged it just to review other keyboards. Topre key switches are an interesting hybrid of mechanical and rubber dome, with their own feel that I really enjoy typing on.

The Loupedeck CT is great. I swap between editing software all the time, and having pre-assigned shortcut profiles on the editing deck means I don’t have to remember if shortcut combinations change between software setups. It’s also great for those annoying sliders in Lightroom, which I absolutely hate trying to control with my mouse or keyboard. Dials are just so much more tactile when you’re trying to dial in color settings. I’ve also got a Wacom Intuos Pro Small, again because trying to edit with a mouse is horrendous. It’s so much easier to use a pen-based interface for corrections and tweaks, or even for simply cutting out backgrounds.

I’ve also got a Sabrent Rocket Q 2TB drive in an external USB-C enclosure, which I use as a scratch drive while editing. I used to always edit off a separate internal SSD, but with USB-C, I don’t really need to worry about slower speeds while working. It also keeps my files in one location, that I don’t have to worry about. Once edited, everything gets transferred onto my NAS for archival purposes, and I copy them to my OneDrive as well so I have multiple backups in case of issues.

That IKEA drawer seems stuffed, what’s that all about?

Oh god, I probably need to clean that out at some point. I thought I’d have some time during quarantine to organize the drawers full of cables but all I ended up with was a second, pile of cable-tidying equipment next to the drawers. Oops.

The rest of the drawers are full of paper for our laser printer, spare parts for computer builds, and batteries. Lots of batteries. Reviewing doesn’t need that many nowadays, but all of the toddler toys do. Woe betide me if I don’t have charged batteries when one of the favorites runs low.

Still, all that weight is probably a good thing since it’s also supporting my computer tower. I don’t like having it on the floor, and I need all the desk space for other devices so I can’t put it on there. Maybe when we move I’ll have a larger space and I can get a wider desk…

What’s that paper plane?

Oh, that’s pretty cool actually. It’s a smartphone-controlled RC plane. Well, to be more exact, it’s the Powerup 4.0, which is a way to add power to your paper airplanes. You can also trade up to balsa wood or foam planes if you want, but I like the fact that I can fold multiple paper ones, without worrying about damaging anything. One of the benefits of our apartment having a loft is that there’s lots of space to fly it around in.

Are there any upgrades planned or anything you’d do differently?

Oh, almost everything? I mean it wasn’t really planned to begin with, as I grabbed the first IKEA desk I could afford. Before that, my computer was on a couple of coffee tables, and my keyboard and mouse were on one of those movable hospital tables. It wasn’t really the best setup for being productive. Then Uplift sent over a sit/stand desk and I couldn’t be happier (just wish that I had enough space for a wider top). I’d definitely build more storage and put some things up on the wall next time I rearrange my office space.

The next things that are happening though are I’m putting a grommet through my desk for an XLR microphone stand and moving the LED strips under my desk further away from the edge, so I can clamp some multi-purpose mounts onto the edge for things like overhead views of keyboards or lighting.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more. Sample units were provided for portions of this article.

The post What’s on our desk? Hardware Editor edition appeared first on KnowTechie.

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Review: iQunix F60 Joker mechanical keyboard https://knowtechie.com/review-iqunix-f60-joker-mechanical-keyboard/ Mon, 28 Sep 2020 20:13:01 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=128458 A solid, mid-priced mechanical keyboard.

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The Good
Aluminum case
Solidly built
Great value
Genuine Cherry MX switches
The Bad
Slow shipping apparently (but what isn't nowadays)
8.5
Overall

In the mechanical keyboard market, once you decide you want a fully-metal case, you usually have to adjust to eating ramen for a while. That’s because custom, hot-swappable keyboards that come with metal cases can run anywhere upwards of $300 to several thousand if you’re buying on the secondary market.

That leaves a huge gap in the market between your sub-$100 manufacturers and the custom, low-volume hobbyists, just waiting for someone to come along and carve out a market presence.

One of the companies that have seen the potential in the mid-price range is iQunix, who might not be a household name yet, but based on the quality of their devices, should be on everyone’s up-and-coming lists. We’ll be looking at one of their newest keyboards today, the F60-2020, a 60-percent, hot-swappable mechanical keyboard. Can it bring value to the $150 price range?

Joker in the house

iqunix f60 keyboard

Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

Okay, so the first thing you notice taking the F60-2020 out of the box is that it’s a hefty boi. iQunix says it weighs 790g, and I don’t doubt it for a second. That’s mainly down to the anodized aluminum shell, which makes for nice stability when you are typing. It feels, and looks, premium.

Most gaming keyboards you may be used to only have the top plate as metal, with the rest of the keyboard being plastic. Not so here, with every part of the case being aluminum.

READ MORE: How to choose the right mechanical keyboard for you

To save costs, the case isn’t machined out of a solid block, like custom keyboards are, but bolted together with the sides, bottom, and plate all being removable. The metal used isn’t thin and cheap either, it’s nice solid, thick plates. Top stuff so far.

This model is a 60-percent board, which means it has roughly 60-percent of the keys of a full-sized keyboard, which has 104 usually. That means you’ll have to use layers to get things like the F-row, or the Arrow keys, but anyone who has used a smaller form factor keyboard should be right at home. It’s programmable, both with on-keyboard key combos, and an upcoming software package.

iqunix f60 keyboard

Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

As configured, our F60-2020 sample came in the Joker colorway, with under-switch RGB LEDs, and genuine Cherry Brown key switches. The keycaps look custom and are made from PBT, with dye-sublimated legends. That’s good, as PBT is known for not really picking up grease from your fingers and going all shiny after a while. There is quite a bit of shine-through when the RGB LEDs are on, which is to be expected from a cheaper set of keycaps. Remember, thicker, custom group buy keycaps are around the total cost of this keyboard.

READ MORE: Vissles LP85 wireless mechanical keyboard review

Oh, and one thing that does set these smaller, Asian companies apart from the mass-produced gaming boards? Accessories. iQunix has included a long, braided USB-A to USB-A cable, a keycap/switch puller, replacement stabilizers, and rubber bumpons in case you break or lose some, and my favorite part, a small brush to keep your keyboard looking immaculate. Nice.

Typing experience

The PBT keycaps, Cherry MX Brown key switches, and solid, aluminum case all combine to a great typing feel. The best part of this keyboard though? If you get bored or don’t like the key switches it came with, then just change them! Kailh hot-swap sockets are on the PCB, so all you need are some compatible key switches and a chunk of time to pull the installed switches out and swap in the new ones.

I found that I didn’t really like the tactile feel of the brown switches, so I swapped in some Kailh BOX Silent switches, which are a silenced version of their BOX Red linear switches. These have muting pads inside the switch to make them quieter and are a great upgrade in my opinion. Now my typing isn’t so loud, there’s almost no wobble on the keycaps, and the RGB glow is slightly muted. Oh, and they feel better when gaming too (at least to my fingers). This is totally down to my preference though, so feel free to experiment to find the switches you prefer to type on.

kailh silent box mechanical keyboard switches

Image: Joe Rice-Jones / KnowTechie

The other thing that really helps the amount of noise this keyboard makes is that iQunix has put sound-dampening foam both underneath the PCB and also between the PCB and the top plate. That’s a great thing to see, and really adds a lot to the premium feel of the F60-2020. Just to contrast, the dampening foam used in my custom keyboard is $20 on its own, so including it in a production item is awesome.

So, should I buy an iQunix F60-2020?

The iQunix F60-2020 is a great midpoint between the worlds of enthusiast keyboards and gaming ones. It’s built well, feels great to type on, and has customization options so you can find the typing experience you most prefer. At $149, it’s an insane value proposition, packing genuine Cherry MX switches, aluminum construction, and responsiveness.

Editors’ Recommendations:

A sample unit was provided for the purpose of this review.

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Can a mechanical keyboard help you type faster? https://knowtechie.com/can-a-mechanical-keyboard-help-you-type-faster/ Tue, 08 Sep 2020 20:39:18 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=128573 Gamers love them, but will they make you a faster typer?

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Nowadays, it’s common to see mechanical keyboards on gamers’ desks, with their clacky switches and lots of RGB. They’re marketed as better for reaction time, as the design of mechanical switches is perfect for lightning-fast reaction times and responsive action.

That’s not all they’re good for though. I mean, it’s a keyboard, right? Primarily used for typing, not just fragging noobs? Whether you’re a coder, a writer, or just doing your school homework, the typing experience with a mechanical keyboard is second to none.

So, is it going to improve your typing ability? Will you be able to type faster for typing on a mechanical keyboard?

So, are you going to type faster if you buy a mechanical keyboard?

Short answer: Yes, but not without practice

See, the thing about mechanical keyboards for most people is the tactility. That additional feedback on your fingertips to not only let you know you hit the right key, but that you also pressed it far enough down to register a keystroke. That feedback loop will, over time, make you a faster typer, as you acclimatize your fingers.

That’s true no matter which key switch type you have in your keyboard, from linear to tactile, and to the ultimate in feedback, the clicky switches. Not only do those give you physical feedback, but a louder noise every time you press the switch down far enough. Tap on those for long enough and you will see your typing speed improve.

You can speed the process along by using online tools, such as typrX, which has gamified typing with online leaderboards and the ability to race other people across the world or challenge specific friends to a type-out. Trying out blank keycaps can also help, by making it impossible for you to see the legends on each key by looking down at your fingers. Oh, and don’t slouch. Bad posture also makes your typing slower, and could lead to injury.

What do you think? Do you feel like you type faster on a mechanical keyboard? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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The Asus ROG Falchion keyboard could be perfect for gamers with limited space https://knowtechie.com/the-asus-mini-rog-falchion-keyboard-could-be-perfect-for-gamers-with-limited-space/ Thu, 06 Aug 2020 19:45:22 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=126114 It will also fit in your backpack for easy transportation.

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In mid-July, Asus formally declared its entry into the mini gaming keyboard market. At a press conference for the company’s new ROG Phone 3, Asus announced the Mini ROG Falchion gaming keyboard.

The keyboard, designed for on-the-go gaming, is the first miniature keyboard to be developed by Asus.

What we know about the Asus mini gaming keyboard

In the press release announcing the keyboard, the company said that the Falchion will have an “ultrafast” 1 millisecond response time and a stable 2.4 GHz wireless dongle connection.

The keyboard also features a side touch panel that displays the keyboard’s remaining battery life and will allow users to control the volume, pause or play music and zoom the screen in or out. The side touch panel is also programmable, meaning that you can use it as a macro key if needed.

READ MORE: Asus debuts souped-up ROG Phone 6 and 6 Pro gaming phones

The keyboard will also use Cherry MX RGB mechanical switches. These mechanical switches will provide a little extra tactile feedback and responsiveness to the keyboard. As a plus (or minus) the switches will also mean loud clicking sounds with each keypress.

It also comes with RGB lighting and a removable, transparent cover that can be snapped on or off the keyboard. The keyboard cover, in addition to helping you keep your keyboard clean, will also modify the appearance of the Falchion’s RGB lighting. According to the press release, the keyboard will have a 400-hour battery life — although that is with the RGB lights disabled. We don’t know how long the keyboard will last with lighting on right now.

As far as features go, that’s about all we know right now. Even with this limited info, the Falchion already looks like a great option for gamers that are short on desktop space or need to clear the way for additional peripherals.

How the Falchion compares to other mini gaming keyboards

asus falchion gaming keyboard

Image: KnowTechie

The biggest difference between its competition is the keyboard’s wireless connectivity and layout. The Falchion has arrow keys, which are notably missing from options like Razer’s Huntsman Mini. Arrow keys aren’t essential for most games, but they do make navigating multi-line text fields and menus much more comfortable.

The Huntsman is also missing a few other navigation and formatting keys that are included on the Falchion’s layout — specifically, the Insert, Delete, Page Up and Page Down keys. Again, not the biggest difference — but if you’d feel limited by the lack of those keys, it could be a major selling point.

When to expect the ROG Falchion

Asus has given us nothing to go on so far with regards to pricing and availability. If the keyboard costs anything like its competition, however, it could be pretty expensive. The Razer Hunstman Mini, for example, is the current stand-out miniature mechanical gaming keyboard, and it costs $120. This is cheaper than comparable, full-size mechanical keyboards, which tend to retail for around $150 or more, and around the same price as Asus’ 100 percent form-factor keyboards.

Other miniature gaming keyboards aren’t so affordable, however. The Drop ALT mini keyboard, for example, retails at over $200. With no word from Asus yet, it may be best to expect a price in line with the rest of the company’s ROG offerings and Asus gaming keyboards.

What do you think? Are you interested in the Asus Mini ROG Falchion? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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