Keychron has unveiled the K8 QMK V2, an upgraded version of its widely acclaimed 80% Tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical keyboard. This latest iteration introduces a host of enhancements in design, customization, and connectivity, alongside the debut of the Keychron Super switches, developed in collaboration with Gateron. Designed to cater to both productivity-focused users and gamers, the K8 QMK V2 aims to deliver a premium typing experience while maintaining an accessible price point.
Keychron K8 QMK V2 TKL Keyboard
TL;DR Key Takeaways :
- The Keychron K8 QMK V2 is an upgraded 80% Tenkeyless (TKL) mechanical keyboard featuring improved design, customization, and connectivity, with new Keychron Super switches developed in collaboration with Gateron.
- Key upgrades include Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps for durability, sound-dampening foam for quieter typing, and options for white or RGB backlighting.
- The new Keychron Super switches come in three variants (Red, Brown, Banana) and are hot-swappable, allowing users to customize their typing and gaming experience without soldering.
- Enhanced connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.2 for stable wireless performance and USB Type-C for wired use, with QMK firmware support for advanced key and lighting customization.
- With a 4,000 mAh battery, the keyboard offers up to 190 hours of wireless use without backlighting, and pricing starts at $79, making it accessible for various budgets and preferences.
Refined Design and Build Quality
The K8 QMK V2 features a thoughtfully refined design that prioritizes durability, comfort, and aesthetics. Buyers can select between two case options: an ABS plastic case for a lightweight build or an ABS case reinforced with an aluminium frame for added sturdiness and a more premium feel. This flexibility allows users to choose a configuration that best suits their preferences and budget.
One of the most notable upgrades in this version is the transition from OEM profile ABS keycaps to Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps. These keycaps are engineered for durability, offering resistance to wear and shine over time. Additionally, they provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, making them a significant improvement over the previous model.
To enhance acoustic performance, Keychron has incorporated sound-dampening foam into the keyboard’s internal structure. This addition minimizes keystroke noise, making the K8 QMK V2 an excellent choice for quieter environments such as offices or shared workspaces. Users can also choose between white backlighting for a minimalist aesthetic or RGB backlighting for a more dynamic and customizable visual experience.
Keychron Super Switches: A New Standard in Typing
A standout feature of the K8 QMK V2 is the introduction of the Keychron Super switches, developed in collaboration with Gateron. These switches are available in three distinct variants, each tailored to specific typing and gaming preferences:
– Super Red: Linear switches with a 45 gf actuation force, offering smooth and fast keystrokes ideal for gaming and rapid typing.
– Super Brown: Tactile switches with a 55 gf actuation force, providing subtle tactile feedback without generating excessive noise, making them suitable for both work and play.
– Super Banana: Short-throw tactile switches with a 57 gf actuation force and an early tactile bump, designed for precise and responsive inputs.
The hot-swappable design of the K8 QMK V2 allows users to replace switches without soldering, allowing easy customization. This feature enables users to experiment with different switch types to find the configuration that best suits their needs, whether for gaming, typing, or general use.
Firmware and Connectivity Enhancements
The K8 QMK V2 supports QMK firmware, which provides advanced customization options for key functions, macros, and lighting effects. This level of programmability allows users to tailor the keyboard to their specific workflows, enhancing productivity and efficiency. Additionally, Keychron’s proprietary Launcher software offers an intuitive interface for further customization, making the keyboard adaptable to a wide range of use cases.
Connectivity has been significantly upgraded with the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.2 and USB Type-C. Bluetooth 5.2 ensures a stable and reliable wireless connection with reduced latency, while USB Type-C delivers fast and dependable wired performance. The keyboard supports a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode and a 90 Hz polling rate in wireless mode, making sure responsiveness for gaming and other high-performance tasks.
Battery Life and Performance
The K8 QMK V2 is equipped with a 4,000 mAh battery, offering extended usage times depending on backlighting settings. In wireless mode, the keyboard provides up to 190 hours of battery life without backlighting and up to 100 hours with backlighting at the lowest brightness setting. While the battery life is slightly reduced compared to its predecessor, the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.2 ensures a more stable and efficient wireless experience, compensating for the marginal decrease in longevity.
Hardware Specifications
– Layout: 80% Tenkeyless (TKL)
– Keycaps: Cherry profile double-shot PBT
– Switches: Keychron Super (Red, Brown, Banana), hot-swappable
– Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C
– Polling Rate: 1000 Hz (wired), 90 Hz (wireless)
– Battery: 4,000 mAh, up to 190 hours (no backlight)
– Backlighting: White or RGB options
– Case Options: ABS plastic or ABS with aluminium frame
Pricing and Availability
The Keychron K8 QMK V2 is available in multiple configurations to accommodate a variety of budgets and preferences. Pricing details are as follows:
– $79: White backlight, plastic case, plastic frame, non-hot-swappable switches.
– $89: RGB backlight, plastic case, plastic frame, non-hot-swappable switches.
– $99: RGB backlight, plastic case, plastic frame, hot-swappable switches.
– $109: RGB backlight, plastic case, aluminium frame, hot-swappable switches.
The keyboard can be purchased directly from Keychron’s official website, making sure easy access for users worldwide. With its range of configurations, the K8 QMK V2 offers options for those seeking affordability, advanced features, or a balance of both.
Key Improvements Over the Original K8 Wireless
The K8 QMK V2 introduces several meaningful upgrades over its predecessor, the original K8 Wireless. Key improvements include the adoption of Cherry profile PBT keycaps, which replace the OEM ABS keycaps for enhanced durability and a superior typing feel. The addition of sound-dampening foam improves acoustic performance, reducing keystroke noise for a quieter user experience. Support for QMK firmware enables advanced customization, allowing users to personalize their keyboard to a greater extent. While the wireless battery life has been slightly reduced, the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.2 ensures improved connectivity and overall performance.
The Keychron K8 QMK V2 represents a well-rounded upgrade, offering a blend of enhanced features, improved materials, and advanced customization options. Its competitive pricing and versatile configurations make it an appealing choice for a wide range of users, from casual typists to dedicated gamers. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on mechanical keyboards that you might find useful.
Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware
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