NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard Review: Compact Excellence with a Few BumpsThe Latest Guide

Alright, fellow keyboard enthusiasts and gamers alike, it’s time to dive deep into the world of the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard. Spoiler alert: it’s a gem with a few rough edges. This compact tenkeyless keyboard has a lot to offer, from hot-swappable switches to a volume roller, but it’s not without its quirks. Let’s unpack the whole experience.

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Unboxing and First Impressions

Unboxing the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard felt like opening a tech treasure chest. The sleek black box with minimalistic design hints at the premium product inside. As I pulled out the keyboard, the first thing that struck me was its compact size. The MiniTKL form factor is designed to maximize desk space while retaining essential keys, making it a perfect choice for those who value both functionality and a clutter-free setup.

The keyboard itself feels solid and well-constructed. The top frame plate is made from 3mm-thick aerospace-grade aluminum, giving it a hefty, durable feel. The black finish is sleek and modern, blending seamlessly with any setup. But enough about looks; let’s get into the meat of this review.

Setting Up: Plug and Play

Setting up the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard was a breeze. The keyboard connects via a USB-C cable, which is a nice touch since it’s more versatile and future-proof than the older USB-A connections. No software is needed to get started, so you can plug it in and start typing away immediately. However, to unlock its full potential, you’ll want to dive into the NZXT CAM software.

Key Features: What Stands Out

Hot-Swappable Key Switches

One of the standout features of the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard is its hot-swappable key switches. This means you can easily replace the switches without soldering, allowing you to customize the keyboard to your heart’s content. Whether you prefer a linear, tactile, or clicky feel, you can swap out the switches to suit your preferences. For someone like me who loves tinkering with their setup, this feature is a godsend.

Shine-Through Keycaps and Legible Font

The keycaps are another highlight. Made from double-shot PBT, they feel robust and are resistant to wear. The shine-through design allows the RGB lighting to illuminate each key brilliantly, and the font is highly legible. No more squinting to see if you’re hitting the right key in dim lighting.

Efficient Key Layout

The MiniTKL layout is efficient, packing all the keys of a traditional tenkeyless keyboard into a smaller footprint. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who need all the essential keys but want to save on desk space. The layout feels intuitive, and after a short adjustment period, my fingers were flying across the keys with ease.

Well-Designed Software Utility

NZXT’s CAM software is another feather in this keyboard’s cap. It allows for extensive customization of key functions, RGB lighting effects, and even macros. The interface is user-friendly and offers a plethora of options without feeling overwhelming. Whether you want to create complex macros or simply adjust the lighting to match your setup, the CAM software has you covered.

Volume Roller

A small but significant feature is the volume roller. Located on the top right corner, it allows for quick and precise volume adjustments. It’s one of those features you don’t realize you need until you have it, and then you wonder how you ever lived without it. Plus, it adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design.

8,000Hz Polling Rate

Now, let’s talk about performance. The NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard boasts an impressive 8,000Hz polling rate, which means it transmits input signals 8 times faster than most gaming keyboards. In practical terms, this translates to near-instantaneous responsiveness, a crucial factor in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Whether you’re in the heat of battle or typing out a lengthy document, the keyboard’s responsiveness is top-notch.

A Few Bumps on the Road

No USB Pass-Through Port

As much as I love this keyboard, it’s not without its flaws. The lack of a USB pass-through port is a notable omission. This feature is particularly handy for connecting additional peripherals like a mouse or a USB drive without reaching behind your PC. It’s a small inconvenience, but worth mentioning.

No Wrist Rest

Another downside is the absence of a wrist rest. For extended typing or gaming sessions, a wrist rest can provide much-needed support and reduce strain. While the keyboard’s compact design doesn’t leave much room for an attached wrist rest, even a detachable option would have been appreciated.

Slight Pinging Noise from Key Switches

One more minor issue is the slight pinging noise from the key switches. Despite the dual-layer sound-dampening foam and tape-enhanced PCB designed to absorb unwanted noises, there’s still a noticeable pinging sound from the springs. It’s not a deal-breaker, but if you’re sensitive to keyboard acoustics, it’s something to be aware of.

Day-to-Day Experience: Typing and Gaming

Typing Experience

Typing on the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard is a delight. The switches are responsive and offer a satisfying feel with each keystroke. I found myself typing faster and more accurately compared to my previous keyboard. The adjustable actuation point is a nifty feature, allowing you to fine-tune the responsiveness to your liking. Whether you prefer a lighter touch or a more deliberate press, the keyboard can be customized to fit your typing style.

Gaming Performance

When it comes to gaming, this keyboard truly shines. The 8,000Hz polling rate and swift optical switches make for an incredibly responsive gaming experience. Every keystroke registers instantly, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced games. The compact layout also means that I had more room to move my mouse, which is a huge plus for FPS games.

The RGB lighting, while not essential for performance, adds a nice touch of flair. The lighting effects are customizable through the CAM software, allowing you to sync them with other NZXT products for a cohesive look. Whether you prefer a subtle glow or a full-on light show, the possibilities are endless.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard is sleek and modern. The aerospace-grade aluminum top frame adds a premium feel and ensures long-lasting stability. The keyboard has a good heft to it, which keeps it firmly in place during intense gaming sessions. The keycaps are made from durable PBT, which resists shine and wear better than the ABS plastic used in many other keyboards.

The compact form factor is perfect for those who want to save desk space without sacrificing functionality. Despite its small size, the keyboard doesn’t feel cramped. The layout is intuitive, and I didn’t have to make any major adjustments to my typing or gaming habits.

Customization and Software

NZXT CAM Software

The NZXT CAM software is a powerful tool that allows for extensive customization. From remapping keys to creating complex macros, the software provides a wealth of options. The interface is user-friendly, and I found it easy to navigate and tweak the settings to my liking.

RGB Lighting

The RGB lighting on the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard is vibrant and fully customizable. The CAM software allows you to choose from a wide range of lighting effects and colors. You can even sync the lighting with other NZXT products for a unified look. Whether you want a subtle backlight or a dynamic light show, the options are plentiful.

Macros and Key Remapping

For those who love macros and custom keybindings, the NZXT CAM software doesn’t disappoint. You can create and assign macros to any key, allowing for complex commands at the touch of a button. This is particularly useful for gaming, where quick access to specific actions can give you a competitive edge.

The Final Verdict

So, after spending considerable time with the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard, what’s the final verdict? Let’s break it down.

Pros

Hot-Swappable Key Switches: Customization is a breeze, allowing you to swap switches without soldering.
Highly Legible Font on Shine-Through Keycaps: The PBT keycaps are durable and the font is easy to read.
Efficient Key Layout: The MiniTKL form factor maximizes space without compromising functionality.
Well-Designed Software Utility: NZXT’s CAM software is intuitive and offers extensive customization options.
Volume Roller: A handy feature for quick and precise volume adjustments.
8,000Hz Polling Rate: Ensures lightning-fast responsiveness, ideal for gaming.

Cons

No USB Pass-Through Port: A minor inconvenience for those who like connecting additional peripherals.
No Wrist Rest: Extended typing or gaming sessions can cause strain without a wrist rest.
Slight Pinging Noise from Key Switches: The springs produce a noticeable pinging sound, which might bother some users.

Recommendation

In conclusion, the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard is a fantastic choice for gamers and typists alike. Its compact form factor, hot-swappable switches, and impressive performance make it a standout product in the crowded keyboard market. While it has a few minor flaws, they are outweighed by its numerous strengths.

If you’re in the market for a new keyboard and value customization, performance, and a sleek design, the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard is well worth considering. Its hot-swappable key switches and 8,000Hz polling rate make it a top contender for gamers, while its compact size and efficient

layout make it ideal for anyone looking to save desk space.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your typing and gaming experience, give the NZXT Function 2 MiniTKL Keyboard a try. It’s a solid investment that combines style, performance, and customization in one sleek package. Happy typing and gaming!