Keychron Q2 Keyboard Review

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When it comes to mechanical keyboards, Keychron has built quite a reputation for itself, known for producing high-quality, customizable keyboards that appeal to both typists and gamers alike. Enter the Keychron Q2, a 65% compact wired keyboard that follows in the footsteps of the popular Keychron Q1, but with a few notable upgrades and a smaller footprint. If you’re a keyboard enthusiast or just someone looking to upgrade your typing experience, buckle up! This review will take you through everything you need to know about the Keychron Q2.

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Design and Build Quality

First impressions are everything, and the Keychron Q2 does not disappoint. This keyboard is built like a tank with a solid full CNC aluminum frame that screams premium quality. The compact 65% layout means it’s smaller and more portable than full-sized keyboards, which is perfect if you’re working with limited desk space or need a keyboard to carry around.

The double-gasket structure is a standout feature, providing a satisfying typing experience by reducing sound resonance and enhancing overall sound dampening. Silicone pads between the top and bottom cases ensure that each keypress feels solid yet cushioned, eliminating the metallic ping that can plague some aluminum boards.

One of the eye-catching aspects of the Q2 is the programmable knob (on the knob version, of course). This little addition isn’t just for show; it adds a layer of functionality that can be customized to your liking, whether you’re adjusting volume, scrolling through content, or assigning it a macro.

Keycaps and Switches

Let’s talk keycaps. The Keychron Q2 comes with PBT keycaps, which are a significant upgrade from the ABS keycaps found on many other keyboards. PBT keycaps are known for their durability and resistance to shine, ensuring that your keyboard looks and feels good even after prolonged use. However, the keycaps are not translucent, meaning the RGB backlighting does not shine through the legends. This might be a letdown for those who love a vibrant light show, but it does give the keyboard a more subdued, professional look.

The fully-assembled version we tested came with tactile Gateron G Pro Brown switches. These switches offer a light typing experience with a nice tactile bump, making them quiet and satisfying to type on. However, the beauty of the Keychron Q2 lies in its customizability. It’s a hot-swappable board, allowing you to easily change out the switches without any soldering. This means you can personalize your typing experience by trying out different switches like Cherry, Kailh, or even the popular Holy Panda switches.

Typing Experience

Typing on the Keychron Q2 is a dream, thanks to the combination of high-quality keycaps, switches, and the innovative double-gasket design. The Gateron G Pro Brown switches on our unit were light and responsive, with just the right amount of feedback for a comfortable typing session. Whether you’re pounding out emails or engaging in a heated gaming session, the Q2 handles it all with aplomb.

The sound-absorbing foam within the board further enhances the experience by reducing noise. This is particularly useful in an office setting where you don’t want to disturb your colleagues with the sound of furious typing. Just remember, the noise levels will vary depending on the switches you use, so choose wisely if silence is golden for you.

Customization Software

One of the highlights of the Keychron Q2 is its comprehensive customization software, which supports QMK and VIA. These open-source firmware options provide endless possibilities for remapping keys, creating custom macros, and tweaking backlight effects. The software is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring compatibility across different operating systems.

The ability to program each key opens up a world of possibilities, especially for power users who need specific shortcuts or gamers who want to set up complex macros. The knob, for instance, can be programmed to control volume, zoom in and out, or even act as a joystick in some applications. The ease of use and depth of customization make the Q2 stand out in the crowded mechanical keyboard market.

Performance and Gaming

While the Keychron Q2 shines in daily typing tasks, it’s no slouch in the gaming department either. The latency is decently low, making it responsive enough for most gaming needs. However, it’s worth noting that hardcore gamers who require ultra-low latency for competitive play might find other options more suited to their needs.

The customizable RGB backlighting adds a nice touch to the gaming experience, even if it doesn’t shine through the keycaps. The south-facing RGB is designed to illuminate from the typist’s angle, providing a pleasant underglow that enhances the aesthetic without being too flashy.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Keychron Q2 is a high-profile keyboard, which means it sits higher off the desk compared to some other models. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a wrist rest, which might be a dealbreaker for those who type for long periods. However, you can purchase a wrist rest separately, and I’d highly recommend doing so to improve comfort.

Despite this, the typing angle and overall design are ergonomic enough to prevent strain during extended use. The keycap shape and tactile feedback ensure a pleasant typing experience, but investing in a good wrist rest will definitely take it up a notch.

Compatibility and Connectivity

This is a wired keyboard, which might be a downside for those who prefer the freedom of wireless. However, the wired connection ensures a stable and reliable performance, free from the occasional hiccups that can occur with wireless setups. The Keychron Q2 is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for users across different platforms.

Switching between operating systems is seamless, thanks to the dedicated switch on the side of the keyboard. This is particularly handy for those who use multiple devices and need to switch between them quickly.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Sturdy Build Quality: The full CNC aluminum frame provides a robust and premium feel.
  • Highly Customizable: Hot-swappable switches and programmable keys offer endless customization options.
  • Double-Gasket Design: Enhances typing sound and feel.
  • PBT Keycaps: Durable and resistant to shine.
  • Cross-Platform Software: Customization software available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Programmable Knob: Adds functional versatility.

Cons:

  • No Wrist Rest: High-profile design may require a separate wrist rest for comfort.
  • Non-Translucent Keycaps: RGB backlighting doesn’t shine through key legends.
  • Wired Only: Lack of wireless option may be a downside for some users.

Verdict

The Keychron Q2 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their typing experience. Its combination of build quality, customization options, and typing feel make it a standout in the mechanical keyboard market. Whether you’re a writer, programmer, or gamer, this keyboard offers something for everyone. The hot-swappable switches and programmable keys mean you can tailor it to your exact preferences, and the solid construction ensures it will last for years to come.

While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of a wrist rest and non-translucent keycaps, these are easily outweighed by the benefits. If you’re serious about your typing and want a keyboard that can keep up with your needs, the Keychron Q2 is definitely worth considering.

Recommendation

In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a high-quality, customizable mechanical keyboard, the Keychron Q2 should be at the top of your list. Its blend of durability, flexibility, and performance make it a versatile choice that can cater to a wide range of users. The addition of the programmable knob and the innovative double-gasket design only sweeten the deal.

Whether you’re typing up reports, coding late into the night, or gaming with friends, the Keychron Q2 has the features and build quality to deliver a superior experience. So go ahead, treat yourself to the Keychron Q2, and elevate your typing game to a whole new level.

There you have it, folks—our comprehensive Keychron Q2 Keyboard Review. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to get back to typing on this delightful keyboard!

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