It's a pet peeve of mine as well. I have to stretch and straighten up my cable when they come folded like that. My favorite mouse the Glorious gaming mouse is notorious for this and annoy the crap out of me.
TaeKeyboards are you able to review the Keychron K6 I mean yes it is similar to the K2 but without the extra function row, however, they do have hot-swappable PCB now with Gateron or LK optical in the tactile brown form which I find unique and linear red and clicky blue as well so maybe a chance to get your optical fix? Thanks so much for your reviews really great and good opinions.
I have the aluminum K4 with yellow gaterons too, and it's been great to me. Thank god my spacebar doesn't sound like that. Matter of fact, my spacebar feels amazing. I went with this board because it's backlit, wireless, 96% and available/affordable to buy in EU. I was unaware it was hyped.
I would love to see a video series of you taking these cheaper keyboards with small issues and mod them to make them higher quality. Like clipping stems, lubing switches, or fixing weird squeaks.
I’ve had this keyboard for 6 months now, no squeaking on the spacebar. Maybe just needs to be broken in. Some of my most used keys such as control and shift have a tiny bit of friction and may need to be lubed every half year. So far very happy!
I'm gonna hear that spacebar in my nightmares tonight. You should do a video on the Dierya DK61. 60% board that uses gateron opticals for 50$. Gateron optical reds feel surprisingly good.
I have the optical version of this keyboard, with the blue version of the switches, and while I do find them noticeably more responsive than typical contact-based switches (even friends not into keyboards can notice a difference), I found them too light for me personally and went back to my Kira after a week. I do like how smooth they feel tho, they just... glide down upon the keypress with minimal friction. It's oddly satisfying.
i'm a k2 owner and as a mac user I think it's the best option as far as bluetooth switching btwn devices, plug and play out of the box, and having the mac specific keys. The height and OEM keycaps are a problem for sure, but they are releasing PBT cherry keycaps for the k2 soon. I soldered Zealios v2 and I'm really loving this keyboard more now. I was about to rip my hair out using this with Gateron Reds.
@@TaeKeyboards It's hard out here for us Mac users! Oh, I think one thing to note, which I learned from zealpc, is that the PCB apparently uses an "older" style of LED mount where its on the switch side, and not an 'underglow'. This was one issue I had when soldering the new switches, basically they sit on top of the LEDs
Good Review! I ordered one with Alu and Optical Reds (currently on hold still at customs 3 days now lol) I bought this because i'm going full wireless on my set up. And a KB is all i'm missing. I got this because i needed that numpad for my work most of the time, and i wanted something compact, importantly the optical switches when i'm gaming. However, i have still have yet to try this, i'm hoping for a good experience. Your review about the K2 is what lead me to buy their Walnut Palm Rest. So thank you! :) There aren't many choices for wireless with optical switches and numpad. So i have to get these, until a better one comes out i guess. Plus i think it's pretty cheap for $128.15 all in with the palm rest and shipping. It's cheaper than my mouse. SMH.
I still think I'm going to end up buying this because the 96 layout is just perfect for me and I just can't find another 96 out there that isn't insanely expensive or doesn't require me to buy a soldering station (making it just as expensive for me as a pre built)
mine is great, though you do have to get used to the height. it's not the most solid sounding given the keycaps and the plastic construction, but at least stabs come pre-lubed 🙌
This was the first mech I ever purchased, before I started making custom keyboards. Today I went back to it and I modded it from the ground up with lubed switches, case foam, and some high end keycaps. it's an entirely new device now and I appreciate owning it so much more.
I had no idea people cared about keyboards so much lol. I only started looking into mechanical ones because I randomly started pushing some of them at jb hifi. I immediately thought it was satisfying and wanted to improve my experience, especially as I write a lot of content. What would you recommend that has that physical clicky feedback, but without too much noise? Preferably wireless and RGB lit, but I'll take suggestions on board.
I guess the easiest way to figure it out is to just take his two keychron videos, his videos where he talks about the 65% layout, and the videos where he talks about hot swap and combine those. I don't see it likely for him to do another keychron since he didn't really like the two he has already done. If the bluetooth features are what you need, then sure, but there may be a better option for a bluetooth 65% percent keyboard and if it's hot swap, the switch type would never really matter since you'd be able to put literally anything, from a cherry mx blue (bleh) to holy pandas.
I'm actually typing this comment on a K4 at the moment. Your spacebar is definitely different from mine - mine does not make a squeaking sound, and is very consistent in sound with the rest of the keys (I got Gateron Browns, and purchased a K2 in the same switch - both with no issues). I would suggest reaching out to Keychron - because that's definitely not normal. My biggest gripe is that there is no software for lighting/hotkeys, but the manual states 'yet', so that leaves hope for one to come on later. I'm also hoping someone makes some custom solid aluminum/wood cases for these.
I am a big fan of this layout as it has just what I need, however I’ve already been using a budget 75% Keyboard and a stand-alone numpad. If I were to upgrade I might start of with a kit and dive deep into this world of custom keyboard. However if it is cheaper and more bang for buck to mod this keyboard at $69, I’ll take it.
It's almost always more 'bang for your buck' to mod a cheap off the shelf keyboard, but that only gets you so far before you hit a wall. That wall could be the stabiliser design, usually very difficult to fix. Lube helps a bit but you'll have to desolder the entire board to install new and better stabilisers to really fix them (just one example).
thats just it. I want all the keys but smashed together to make it as small as possible and mechanical switches with rgb. slim picking for this type of layout but I wish other companies would make a board like this. great video!
Thanks for the review, this is very helpful. Love your page, spot on, no holds barred reviews, and also the products covered are affordable to people like me. Thanks! Keep it up!
@@alanlopezr.7104 These may not be problems for other people, but for me, I had these issues: Case bezel had a sharp ledge, so when I would mindlessly move my hand back over my keyboard from using the mouse, at one point I cut my hand on it. (Not a problem on the aluminum frame I presume because it's a different shape) The location of the LED button is .... problematic - most other SFF keyboards put the delete keyboard in the most accessible position, but keychron puts the LED button there. I also had wonky key registration issues on wired. I would understand on wireless and excuse it, because wireless, but while plugged in and in wired-mode, the keyboard would just sometimes not register keystrokes. And while this is a minor issue and is easily/cheaply fixed; the stock keycaps are very thin, feel flimsy and loud.
Didn't knew anyone was hype in this keyboard, i just saw it in online shop then watch a review, first impression was ok i like it, because of the full compact mechanical keys specially the numpad also in bluetooth which i can use in my office.
@Peter Kropotkin Sometimes people get a MacBook to work on, from their company. I got a MacBook Pro 16, and I also have an MSI gaming laptop. This situation is pretty realistic for people who code for a living.
@Peter Kropotkin 1. Mac OS is pretty stable and we can just focus on our job. I like using this better for work, than on my Windows/Linux machine. Installations and software versioning work as expected, unlike in Arch Linux where things for my environment kept breaking. It used to be annoying. 2. I never thought I'd ever say this, but Mac OS and the Macbook 16" make a very fluid platform. 3. The Retina display is gorgeous! Mac OS scaling works without a hitch, unlike in Linux or Windows. And before you correct me, let me tell you that I've been working enough years with High-Res displays and Linux to know what a pain it is. 4. I love the company I work for, and don't need your suggestions for where I should and should not work.
@Peter Kropotkin Sounds like you're an unemployed bum hiding behind an alias to talk trash to others. Apart from Arch, I'm also running Debian on my home server. Debian works, until you try to change something and it breaks. Honestly, Mac OS is just better for work. I also used to the snob you are right now, so I'm advising that you need to use it to experience the workflow improvement... When and if you finally land a job.
Got this keyboard from Kickstarter. When it works it works. When it stops working it stops working either from lost of battery or some other reason. Most of the time it loses battery without warning. One thing they need to update is have some kind of battery low warning. Sometimes no reason at all.
Hello, I love your channel and your reviews. I got a few questions: 1.Can the Keychron K4 be customized with other color keycaps set? 2.What is the difference between the aluminum and the plastic one? Can I remove the Aluminum black parts located on the keyboard sides? I hope to see your answer soon. Thanks.
I'm on a macOS compliant keyboard search. So far the obvious choices for regular boards is Apple's own Space Grey Full Size Keyboard and Logitech's spendy Craft Keyboard with its controller knob (of dubious utility). On the mechanical keyboard front, I've found this: the Keychron K4 and also the Akko 3108. The major pro of the K4 is mechanical at a very inexpensive price. Since this video has gone up, Keychron offers the K4 with more switch types. For me, I'm most interested in Optical Browns. Currently with their sale price on their lowest end plastic, white only backlit model it's $64. Which is insane. The Akko 3108 (if you can find the specific model you want in stock with both the look and switches you want) starts at $95. However, both of these options are less expensive when compared to the Apple and Logitech options, neither of which is mechanical, but offer other "integration" benefits (this is when not considering used, if I buy the Apple or Logitech options, I'll likely buy them at a 20-30% used discount). I'm not entirely sure which way is the way to go. I'm really used to using Apple's first party low profile butterfly switch boards. About 10 years ago I did use a Das Keyboard 2 (before the mech hype train got big) for a year or two and it was fine, but noisy - and I found the Apple board to be "good enough". However I'm revisiting that - Brown Switches might give me the right balance between feeling and noise and the Keychron K4 might do it all at the right price (other than its very high board height). Either way, I know I want full size or near fullsize. Just trying to figure out if I should pull the trigger on the K4.
I bought a K4 to test and for a while I had a problem with bluetooth. Now I'm using a bluetooth adapter and it has improved a bit, but I think the biggest connection problem is that it connects itself after disconnecting itself. I'm testing it with the battery saver mode off to see if it solves the problem. Yes, the keyboard is a little high and I find the texture of the keycaps a bit strange. I particularly prefer my FILCO Majestouch 2 TKL Hakua.
Keep in mind that the Keychron warehouse is in Hong Kong. It ships from there, and if you don't like the product, you're responsible for returning it to there. Which means, effectively, there are no returns. Keychron doesn't offer a return label, so you can pony out more money than you spent on the actual keyboard, trying to return it.
Id rather they create a top bar in the chassis to fit a battery and all the switches they need on the side to keep the rest of the frame slim and ergonomic. Im happy to see more wireless mechs but I'll wait for better designed boards
I just want more quality 96 key/ 1800 boards. People get so hype for the 60-75 percent boards but layers are such a pain for any actual workflow I'm doing and having a full size board in a tenkeyless footprint seems like a no-brainer imo. Other than the K4 the only decent options that aren't sold-through customs are the Input Club Kira and the Iqunix f96. I'm really excited for the Kira Stealth though because as rock solid as the Kira feels the full aluminum build of the Kira Stealth seems like the premium 96 key board I've been waiting on.
Damn I did forget about the Tab 90M. But the Tab's case feels insubstantial, in that 96 keys that aren't high profile feel too long and thin to me, if you get what I mean.
It’s not just yours, my K4 squeaked also. Relubed the stabs and it went away, but yeah, super annoying. Great option for me ultimately as for work I need 10 key and the capability of setting up at a different workstation at work every day with Bluetooth.
SymontheWhite did you have to de/re-solder to lube? If not, can you describe your process? I have a K2 with tons of rattle. I may end up going back to my little Apple chiclet wireless at this point...
A Zed I used an ear wax picker and dielectric grease and used needle nose pliers to hold the stab stem steady while I did my best to push lube into any area I could hear friction and squeaking. No soldering!
I've got the K2 with browns and the reason why I believe Keychron is such a good option at this price is that it is the only company creating keyboards at this price with a Mac layout (especially function keys). It is a bit high (but I already had a wrist rest so no biggie). If you're on windows there are probably better things out there for the price but I really appreciate the Mac function keys. It's also incredibly reliable. I looked extensively before I bought mine, and I couldn't find a good affordable keycap set for Mac that I could put on something at a cheaper price. It's not about bang for buck - it's about being the only option out there at this price for Mac users who want Mac function keys.
if you sort of like the full size keyboard of a laptop, you might like this keyboard like i do. im used to the laptop keyboard layout so using will be easy to adapt (for me at least).
What wrist rest do you recommend? Which are you using for the keychron boards? I think the height of the board is 1.5 inches so I'm guessing I need thicker one
Lube switches/stabs, desolder switches and use better ones/hot swap them out for better ones, spray paint, IDK. Those are really the only things I could really think of.
I second that. Put zealios switches on the upcoming hotswappable k6. Add a brass plate below the battery. Add a laptop stand to give a 20-degree tilt. :D
Is there a top 5 linear switches you personally would recommend? I'm currently using the ducky one 2 TKL with cherry MX silver and after watching all your videos and subscribing, getting a custom keyboard just has been something I've really wanted to do now. It seems like there's just so many out there that I did not know about and your input would be great since you seem to know your switches! I know this all comes down to personal preference, but in the end I would like to know your top 5 or 3 linear switches. Also I do like to start with a kit that is hot swappable. So if there is a case and pcb also you'd recommend for this, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks in advance! (Sorry for long comment lol)
You should review either the Keychron K6 or K8. They've inclined the front of both of these keyboards (and now the K2 with the release of its second version) and also have the option of coming with hot-swappable sockets (which support 5 pin switches!). I think that you should at least review one of their newer keyboards to see if the changes they made help make a better product
Just ordered the K4 Optical Red. I naturally have lengthy hands, but I also don't type a whole lot so I'm hoping the height isn't a deal breaker for me. The Iqunix F96-Knight is the only other same layout board I'm considering, which does have a lower profile then this, but it's switches can't be removed and they are only Cherry MX. If I buy both and get annoyed I'm going to take them apart and see if it's possible to fuse them together🤷🏻♂️
Hello! I’ve been looking for a wireless mechanical keyboard to use for office/home for a while and was suprized by the community built around it. I found there are a lot of good looking keycaps too for customization like YMDK. Do you recommend this keyboard? Or should i look elsewhere?
I'll be honest-- the reason why I got my K2 was because MKBHD got it and recommended it. The height really does bug me, but I just love the feel of the switches and the look of the keyboard. I think it may cause health problems down the road though so...I might return it? I don't know yet.
MKBHD is not really a good source for info on real tech. He's a mainstream reviewer that only know and review mainstream tech like bose, apple, samsung, etc. For real enthusiast level tech go elsewhere.
@@RoMeeHang for mac compatible wireless mechanical keyboard there are lack of options. Hence a lot of mac users recommend Keychron, I would guess this is the case with MKBHD.
Great review! I just got mine today with the Gateron Optical Blues (there was a flash sale on amazon). My only experience with mechanical keyboards is with the Logitech G613 which i only had for a day because there was no back lighting for me when i edited videos in the dark. Those had Romer-G tactical switches which i absolutely loved, i was even trying to find glow in the dark key caps as a compromise. My personal preference is that i definitively prefer the Romer-G tactical switches to the Gateron Optical blues. The Gateron Optical Blues are a bit too light for me but are still a huge huge upgrade from my garbage, abysmal, i could go on for days insulting this horrible Corsair K55. I did find a tear down video confirming what you said about the optical switches being replaceable, and i found Brown, Blacks, Reds, Silvers and Yellows on epathbuy so i'm gonna order a 10 pack of each and figure out what i like. I've been doing research for a year now and i will eventually lube, switch film and 3D print/Mold new key-caps on the entire board to make it fully my own style. Thanks for helping with your review!
I made the mistake of buying a Keychron K7. What I received was NOT wireless (no dongle included) and, when connected by USB cable, many keys did not work. When I asked Keychron for an RMA, they demanded that I send them a video proving that I had not falsified the results of their keyboard test. Keychron has ignored all my subsequent requests for an RMA and a refund. There are many reputable companies making keyboards. Before buying anything from Keychron, think! Do you want to give your money to a company that treats its customers this way?
It’s interesting that this doesn’t seem to have nearly as much ping as the K2 does. I agree the Bluetooth and Mac compatibility is it’s biggest draw card and the reason I purchased the K2 last year. The switches on the side to change OS and between cable and Bluetooth do seem quite flimsy though (I don’t know if they improved this for this board). I have seen reports of people breaking these through both regular use and when disassembling the board if not careful.
I use a lot of creative programs that use numpad shortcuts. I've never owned a mechanical keyboard for any length of time. I bought the Logitech G613 with Romer-G switches and really loved it, but returned it after a day because it didn't have any back-light and i couldn't see the keyboard while i edited videos in low light. Do you know how the K4 Gaterons and Gateron Opticals compare to the Romer-G?
Romer switches feel softer to me than MX browns. Like there is a cushion under them. They are light and low travel. With MX browns there is more of a bump and they comes down on the metal plate more firmly. The Orion G910 has back lighting if you like Romer Switches and has really good back lighting. Honestly I'd rather get a Ducky Shine 7 or the Keychron though.
@@goxcpre Yeah i liked that short travel. I went ahead and bought the Keychron K4 with Optical Blues, which i don't like as much but are way better that what i currently had. Luckily i can swap them with any other Gateron Optical switches i want. I looked at the specs of the RomerG tactile switches in the G613 and they compare most closely to the specs of the Gateron Optical Silvers as far as i can tell. So i'm going to buy a few of them to try out in the K4.
Hi. I got my Keychron K6 two weeks ago. It's my first mech, so it's bare bones (non-hot swappable, no aluminum). Opted for the Brown switches for typing tactility. However, while I like the thocc thocc sounds, I expected a little more resistance at each key press. If my understanding is right, I need Cherry MX Blacks in my next mech purchase (is that right?). Right now, I want to ask if there are springs I can buy to put under the keycaps, to at least increase the key press resistance (and what are these springs called, so I can Google them up).
Does anyone know a good solution to get this keyboard as a german QWERTZ version? Keychron seems like the best choice for a minimalistic bluetooth mechanical keyboard but I can't spend this money on a keyboard on which I can't even type some german letters (eg Ä Ü Ö and I also think >< are missing on US layout?).
Ok I can definitely see/ understand why this isnt a great keyboard stock but I was looking at purchasing it to MOD it. I already have gateron milky blacks switches to put in (iv desoldered before), looking at getting another custom keycap set along with lubing/clipping/ bandaid mod/ orings. Think this would be enough to turn it into something nice or should I get something like the Vortex Vibe which already has nice keycaps and switches I would be satisfied with lubing (gat silent blacks) and in most arguments has a better layout/ build quality?
![KSI - Thick Of It (feat. Trippie Redd) [Official Lyric Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/tXEPbotEjZE/mqdefault.jpg)
I've recently become passionate towards not folding cables lol.
This is what I mean : bit.ly/2SZuaWS
TaeKeyboards Are you rewatching Avatar the last airbender? Just seen you watching it in the last 2 reviews or so (during the typet eat)
It's a pet peeve of mine as well. I have to stretch and straighten up my cable when they come folded like that. My favorite mouse the Glorious gaming mouse is notorious for this and annoy the crap out of me.
over/under coil gang rise up
TaeKeyboards what’s your top 3 favourite keyboards in 2020?
TaeKeyboards are you able to review the Keychron K6 I mean yes it is similar to the K2 but without the extra function row, however, they do have hot-swappable PCB now with Gateron or LK optical in the tactile brown form which I find unique and linear red and clicky blue as well so maybe a chance to get your optical fix? Thanks so much for your reviews really great and good opinions.
Everyone: The spacebar sqeaks...
Me: Hey, it's Avatar
I have the aluminum K4 with yellow gaterons too, and it's been great to me.
Thank god my spacebar doesn't sound like that. Matter of fact, my spacebar feels amazing.
I went with this board because it's backlit, wireless, 96% and available/affordable to buy in EU. I was unaware it was hyped.
Hey, I saw that you got it here in EU. Did you get it directly from their website? Was it shipped from inside EU also? Tks!
@@fcs_2014 I just ordered it from US amazon. The import fees were extremely reasonable considering the price of alternatives in the 96% market
@@i8m Tks for your kind reply. I will take a look at it.
I would love to see a video series of you taking these cheaper keyboards with small issues and mod them to make them higher quality. Like clipping stems, lubing switches, or fixing weird squeaks.
the spacebar is whining in pain just stop pressing it dude
It has to be done.
That spacebar literally made me close the video.
Could it have been a defective unit? I mean they can't be legit sending it out sounding like that right?
Lol
@@TaeKeyboards Do you know how to fix it?
That space bar sounds like The Box by Roddy Rich
Every time you strike the spacebar, the tiny house mouse hiding beneath it cries out in pain.
THAT SPACEBAR LMAO
RIP
**SQUEAK**
PEX whats bad abt it
Foretell do you not hear it squeaking?
Ether. Never head the typing test
I'm planning on replacing and designing my own frame for the keychron k4. And 3D print the parts I need :)
Have you done this yet? I just got the k4 and it's definitely a bit too thick for my taste
Hong Tse I started designing one today. This isn’t final yet, but I’ll keep this page updated as i go along: www.thingiverse.com/thing:4528630
I’ve had this keyboard for 6 months now, no squeaking on the spacebar. Maybe just needs to be broken in. Some of my most used keys such as control and shift have a tiny bit of friction and may need to be lubed every half year. So far very happy!
I'm gonna hear that spacebar in my nightmares tonight.
You should do a video on the Dierya DK61. 60% board that uses gateron opticals for 50$. Gateron optical reds feel surprisingly good.
I have the optical version of this keyboard, with the blue version of the switches, and while I do find them noticeably more responsive than typical contact-based switches (even friends not into keyboards can notice a difference), I found them too light for me personally and went back to my Kira after a week. I do like how smooth they feel tho, they just... glide down upon the keypress with minimal friction. It's oddly satisfying.
i'm a k2 owner and as a mac user I think it's the best option as far as bluetooth switching btwn devices, plug and play out of the box, and having the mac specific keys. The height and OEM keycaps are a problem for sure, but they are releasing PBT cherry keycaps for the k2 soon. I soldered Zealios v2 and I'm really loving this keyboard more now. I was about to rip my hair out using this with Gateron Reds.
Nice mate, fair enough. It definitely is a convenient board for those reasons 🙌
@@TaeKeyboards It's hard out here for us Mac users! Oh, I think one thing to note, which I learned from zealpc, is that the PCB apparently uses an "older" style of LED mount where its on the switch side, and not an 'underglow'. This was one issue I had when soldering the new switches, basically they sit on top of the LEDs
5:37 wtf is that squeak lmao
Good Review! I ordered one with Alu and Optical Reds (currently on hold still at customs 3 days now lol)
I bought this because i'm going full wireless on my set up. And a KB is all i'm missing. I got this because i needed that numpad for my work most of the time, and i wanted something compact, importantly the optical switches when i'm gaming. However, i have still have yet to try this, i'm hoping for a good experience. Your review about the K2 is what lead me to buy their Walnut Palm Rest. So thank you! :)
There aren't many choices for wireless with optical switches and numpad. So i have to get these, until a better one comes out i guess. Plus i think it's pretty cheap for $128.15 all in with the palm rest and shipping. It's cheaper than my mouse. SMH.
just got the k4 myself and I also have the squeaky rattly left side of my space bar, same as yours.
It's a feature :D
I shoulda fixed it in the vid, but honestly got lazy. It wouldn't be hard.
@@TaeKeyboards yeah I'll fix it myself at some point, lol you have more than enough videos on the subject for me to figure it out
what type of stabs do they use if this is a consistent problem?
@@TaeKeyboards You made them lose a lot of customers with that lol, but it's their fault for not doing a decent QC over something so noticeable.
after watching dozens keyboard review I think this is the best choice for a versatile keyboard
this is exactly the pro review i have been searching for. thanks man!
I forget about the sound test for a moment, Avatar took over.
That was a very honest review and I appreciate you for that.
Holy cow I was just thinking of looking for a review of this keyboard. You came at the right timing, dude.
Was waiting to see if you'd cover this one. Been waiting to see if I should go ahead and pull the trigger on this
I still think I'm going to end up buying this because the 96 layout is just perfect for me and I just can't find another 96 out there that isn't insanely expensive or doesn't require me to buy a soldering station (making it just as expensive for me as a pre built)
mine is great, though you do have to get used to the height. it's not the most solid sounding given the keycaps and the plastic construction, but at least stabs come pre-lubed 🙌
1:22 You convinced me to just go with the Equnix F96
This was the first mech I ever purchased, before I started making custom keyboards. Today I went back to it and I modded it from the ground up with lubed switches, case foam, and some high end keycaps. it's an entirely new device now and I appreciate owning it so much more.
what keycaps did you get?
@@evan_n6136 I've mostly been using Akko keycaps on this one and they fit perfectly. Right now it's got Akko Neons on it.
I had no idea people cared about keyboards so much lol. I only started looking into mechanical ones because I randomly started pushing some of them at jb hifi. I immediately thought it was satisfying and wanted to improve my experience, especially as I write a lot of content. What would you recommend that has that physical clicky feedback, but without too much noise? Preferably wireless and RGB lit, but I'll take suggestions on board.
K4 is a great keyboard! Did a shout out of your K2 review because you provided great details.
Would really appreciate a review of the Keychron K6 hotswap from you!
I guess the easiest way to figure it out is to just take his two keychron videos, his videos where he talks about the 65% layout, and the videos where he talks about hot swap and combine those. I don't see it likely for him to do another keychron since he didn't really like the two he has already done. If the bluetooth features are what you need, then sure, but there may be a better option for a bluetooth 65% percent keyboard and if it's hot swap, the switch type would never really matter since you'd be able to put literally anything, from a cherry mx blue (bleh) to holy pandas.
I'm actually typing this comment on a K4 at the moment. Your spacebar is definitely different from mine - mine does not make a squeaking sound, and is very consistent in sound with the rest of the keys (I got Gateron Browns, and purchased a K2 in the same switch - both with no issues).
I would suggest reaching out to Keychron - because that's definitely not normal.
My biggest gripe is that there is no software for lighting/hotkeys, but the manual states 'yet', so that leaves hope for one to come on later. I'm also hoping someone makes some custom solid aluminum/wood cases for these.
I am a big fan of this layout as it has just what I need, however I’ve already been using a budget 75% Keyboard and a stand-alone numpad. If I were to upgrade I might start of with a kit and dive deep into this world of custom keyboard. However if it is cheaper and more bang for buck to mod this keyboard at $69, I’ll take it.
It's almost always more 'bang for your buck' to mod a cheap off the shelf keyboard, but that only gets you so far before you hit a wall. That wall could be the stabiliser design, usually very difficult to fix. Lube helps a bit but you'll have to desolder the entire board to install new and better stabilisers to really fix them (just one example).
Kennui Muffins why would you need to desolder the entire board? Is it because of the plate?
I love you even more now that i know that you watch avatar the last airbender
thats just it. I want all the keys but smashed together to make it as small as possible and mechanical switches with rgb. slim picking for this type of layout but I wish other companies would make a board like this. great video!
man i love this layout (you too m8
haha, not there yet mate
Thank you very much. Nice review. We are waiting for your next video, keep healthy and keep spirit uploading
I was going to buy this until I saw the Kira96. The hot swap feature is what sold me on the Kira96. Nothing beats a 96% layout for work.
G602 gang!
Thanks for the review, this is very helpful. Love your page, spot on, no holds barred reviews, and also the products covered are affordable to people like me. Thanks! Keep it up!
Everything was fine til the spacebar squeaks
Have K4 Optical Red Aluminium frame, no sqeaks.
I had to return my K4 because (on top of all of the other problems) the switches started squeaking after a week.
same with mine
@@sohm On top of all other problems? Please detail for the rest of us!
@@alanlopezr.7104 These may not be problems for other people, but for me, I had these issues:
Case bezel had a sharp ledge, so when I would mindlessly move my hand back over my keyboard from using the mouse, at one point I cut my hand on it. (Not a problem on the aluminum frame I presume because it's a different shape)
The location of the LED button is .... problematic - most other SFF keyboards put the delete keyboard in the most accessible position, but keychron puts the LED button there.
I also had wonky key registration issues on wired. I would understand on wireless and excuse it, because wireless, but while plugged in and in wired-mode, the keyboard would just sometimes not register keystrokes.
And while this is a minor issue and is easily/cheaply fixed; the stock keycaps are very thin, feel flimsy and loud.
Didn't knew anyone was hype in this keyboard, i just saw it in online shop then watch a review, first impression was ok i like it, because of the full compact mechanical keys specially the numpad also in bluetooth which i can use in my office.
What do you recommend instead of this for Mac + Windows.
Usage :
- Mac : Coding
- Windows : Light Gaming
@Peter Kropotkin Better to use a Mac for iOS development, lol.
@Peter Kropotkin Sometimes people get a MacBook to work on, from their company. I got a MacBook Pro 16, and I also have an MSI gaming laptop. This situation is pretty realistic for people who code for a living.
@Peter Kropotkin 1. Mac OS is pretty stable and we can just focus on our job. I like using this better for work, than on my Windows/Linux machine. Installations and software versioning work as expected, unlike in Arch Linux where things for my environment kept breaking. It used to be annoying.
2. I never thought I'd ever say this, but Mac OS and the Macbook 16" make a very fluid platform.
3. The Retina display is gorgeous! Mac OS scaling works without a hitch, unlike in Linux or Windows. And before you correct me, let me tell you that I've been working enough years with High-Res displays and Linux to know what a pain it is.
4. I love the company I work for, and don't need your suggestions for where I should and should not work.
@Peter Kropotkin Sounds like you're an unemployed bum hiding behind an alias to talk trash to others. Apart from Arch, I'm also running Debian on my home server. Debian works, until you try to change something and it breaks. Honestly, Mac OS is just better for work.
I also used to the snob you are right now, so I'm advising that you need to use it to experience the workflow improvement... When and if you finally land a job.
Got this keyboard from Kickstarter. When it works it works. When it stops working it stops working either from lost of battery or some other reason. Most of the time it loses battery without warning. One thing they need to update is have some kind of battery low warning. Sometimes no reason at all.
K6 should be available for preorder soon. The Kickstarter for K6 recently ended. Hopefully a little nicer build wise.
Hello, I love your channel and your reviews. I got a few questions:
1.Can the Keychron K4 be customized with other color keycaps set?
2.What is the difference between the aluminum and the plastic one? Can I remove the Aluminum black parts located on the keyboard sides?
I hope to see your answer soon. Thanks.
I'm on a macOS compliant keyboard search. So far the obvious choices for regular boards is Apple's own Space Grey Full Size Keyboard and Logitech's spendy Craft Keyboard with its controller knob (of dubious utility). On the mechanical keyboard front, I've found this: the Keychron K4 and also the Akko 3108.
The major pro of the K4 is mechanical at a very inexpensive price. Since this video has gone up, Keychron offers the K4 with more switch types. For me, I'm most interested in Optical Browns. Currently with their sale price on their lowest end plastic, white only backlit model it's $64. Which is insane. The Akko 3108 (if you can find the specific model you want in stock with both the look and switches you want) starts at $95. However, both of these options are less expensive when compared to the Apple and Logitech options, neither of which is mechanical, but offer other "integration" benefits (this is when not considering used, if I buy the Apple or Logitech options, I'll likely buy them at a 20-30% used discount).
I'm not entirely sure which way is the way to go. I'm really used to using Apple's first party low profile butterfly switch boards. About 10 years ago I did use a Das Keyboard 2 (before the mech hype train got big) for a year or two and it was fine, but noisy - and I found the Apple board to be "good enough". However I'm revisiting that - Brown Switches might give me the right balance between feeling and noise and the Keychron K4 might do it all at the right price (other than its very high board height). Either way, I know I want full size or near fullsize. Just trying to figure out if I should pull the trigger on the K4.
I bought a K4 to test and for a while I had a problem with bluetooth. Now I'm using a bluetooth adapter and it has improved a bit, but I think the biggest connection problem is that it connects itself after disconnecting itself. I'm testing it with the battery saver mode off to see if it solves the problem.
Yes, the keyboard is a little high and I find the texture of the keycaps a bit strange. I particularly prefer my FILCO Majestouch 2 TKL Hakua.
Best review and most realistic one i would say.
Keep in mind that the Keychron warehouse is in Hong Kong. It ships from there, and if you don't like the product, you're responsible for returning it to there. Which means, effectively, there are no returns. Keychron doesn't offer a return label, so you can pony out more money than you spent on the actual keyboard, trying to return it.
Id rather they create a top bar in the chassis to fit a battery and all the switches they need on the side to keep the rest of the frame slim and ergonomic. Im happy to see more wireless mechs but I'll wait for better designed boards
I am waiting for the KeyChron K6, the hot swapping keyboard.
Love Keychron, cause all the local shops stock it!
I really wish there were some more RF wireless mechanical keyboards. I hate using bluetooth.
I just want more quality 96 key/ 1800 boards. People get so hype for the 60-75 percent boards but layers are such a pain for any actual workflow I'm doing and having a full size board in a tenkeyless footprint seems like a no-brainer imo. Other than the K4 the only decent options that aren't sold-through customs are the Input Club Kira and the Iqunix f96. I'm really excited for the Kira Stealth though because as rock solid as the Kira feels the full aluminum build of the Kira Stealth seems like the premium 96 key board I've been waiting on.
I heard the Vortex Tab 90M is pretty nice.
Damn I did forget about the Tab 90M. But the Tab's case feels insubstantial, in that 96 keys that aren't high profile feel too long and thin to me, if you get what I mean.
It’s not just yours, my K4 squeaked also. Relubed the stabs and it went away, but yeah, super annoying. Great option for me ultimately as for work I need 10 key and the capability of setting up at a different workstation at work every day with Bluetooth.
SymontheWhite did you have to de/re-solder to lube? If not, can you describe your process? I have a K2 with tons of rattle. I may end up going back to my little Apple chiclet wireless at this point...
A Zed I used an ear wax picker and dielectric grease and used needle nose pliers to hold the stab stem steady while I did my best to push lube into any area I could hear friction and squeaking. No soldering!
SymontheWhite I am going to try this.
hey you should totally do a video on the best keyboards for each form factor
I've got the K2 with browns and the reason why I believe Keychron is such a good option at this price is that it is the only company creating keyboards at this price with a Mac layout (especially function keys). It is a bit high (but I already had a wrist rest so no biggie). If you're on windows there are probably better things out there for the price but I really appreciate the Mac function keys. It's also incredibly reliable. I looked extensively before I bought mine, and I couldn't find a good affordable keycap set for Mac that I could put on something at a cheaper price. It's not about bang for buck - it's about being the only option out there at this price for Mac users who want Mac function keys.
I love how there is Avatar in the background
if you sort of like the full size keyboard of a laptop, you might like this keyboard like i do. im used to the laptop keyboard layout so using will be easy to adapt (for me at least).
Same
What wrist rest do you recommend? Which are you using for the keychron boards? I think the height of the board is 1.5 inches so I'm guessing I need thicker one
That squeak was unbearable
Yeh I would fix it, but I’m not gonna use it anymore 👽
Hey Tae! could you review the magicforce smart 2, I'm wondering if the keyboards higher than Anne Pro 2 and which is more egronomic :D
No
Wondering why Keychron went with brown of all colors for the secondary keys. Numerous other colors would have been a better choice in my opinion.
Can you do a video where you take budget or “gaming” keyboards and try to improve them? Always love watching your videos
Lube switches/stabs, desolder switches and use better ones/hot swap them out for better ones, spray paint, IDK. Those are really the only things I could really think of.
I second that. Put zealios switches on the upcoming hotswappable k6. Add a brass plate below the battery. Add a laptop stand to give a 20-degree tilt. :D
Is there a top 5 linear switches you personally would recommend? I'm currently using the ducky one 2 TKL with cherry MX silver and after watching all your videos and subscribing, getting a custom keyboard just has been something I've really wanted to do now. It seems like there's just so many out there that I did not know about and your input would be great since you seem to know your switches! I know this all comes down to personal preference, but in the end I would like to know your top 5 or 3 linear switches. Also I do like to start with a kit that is hot swappable. So if there is a case and pcb also you'd recommend for this, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks in advance! (Sorry for long comment lol)
You should review either the Keychron K6 or K8. They've inclined the front of both of these keyboards (and now the K2 with the release of its second version) and also have the option of coming with hot-swappable sockets (which support 5 pin switches!). I think that you should at least review one of their newer keyboards to see if the changes they made help make a better product
The issue that I really worry about this keyboard is how high it is and the squeaky spacebar
Just ordered the K4 Optical Red. I naturally have lengthy hands, but I also don't type a whole lot so I'm hoping the height isn't a deal breaker for me. The Iqunix F96-Knight is the only other same layout board I'm considering, which does have a lower profile then this, but it's switches can't be removed and they are only Cherry MX. If I buy both and get annoyed I'm going to take them apart and see if it's possible to fuse them together🤷🏻♂️
i was lucky enough to get a K4 with no squeak and somewhat lubed stabs. dodged a bullet there. must say the LEDs are not as bright as I hoped
you think the spacebar is faulty on your keyboard or is it an issue for all?
wich game are u playing at the end of the video?
5:20 ASMR ❤️❤️
**squeak**
@@1292817341 lol
I feel like this would be a good beginner board to experiment with lubing. Gotta find a way to fix that spacebar tho.
I’m about to do exactly that
I just got the K2 (brown swiches) and the space bar also squeaks. It's odd because sometimes it does it. Other times, it is just fine.
Love your review style
Hello! I’ve been looking for a wireless mechanical keyboard to use for office/home for a while and was suprized by the community built around it. I found there are a lot of good looking keycaps too for customization like YMDK. Do you recommend this keyboard? Or should i look elsewhere?
I had the K1 and that keyboard drove me mad with its crappy switches and flat keys that I use a MX Keys now and am so much happier :)
thanks man, will be buying mine soon!
Hi Tae, could you add some foam to the emptiness in the case to see if that makes the feeling slightly better?
Congratulations on 100K!!
I'll be honest-- the reason why I got my K2 was because MKBHD got it and recommended it. The height really does bug me, but I just love the feel of the switches and the look of the keyboard. I think it may cause health problems down the road though so...I might return it? I don't know yet.
MKBHD is not really a good source for info on real tech. He's a mainstream reviewer that only know and review mainstream tech like bose, apple, samsung, etc. For real enthusiast level tech go elsewhere.
Just get a cheap wrists rest, solve the height problem for me.
@@RoMeeHang for mac compatible wireless mechanical keyboard there are lack of options. Hence a lot of mac users recommend Keychron, I would guess this is the case with MKBHD.
Honestly waiting for K6 as a work board.
I got the k4 and my spacebar doesn't squeak. however, the stabbed keys do feel a bit mushy.
Great review! I just got mine today with the Gateron Optical Blues (there was a flash sale on amazon). My only experience with mechanical keyboards is with the Logitech G613 which i only had for a day because there was no back lighting for me when i edited videos in the dark. Those had Romer-G tactical switches which i absolutely loved, i was even trying to find glow in the dark key caps as a compromise. My personal preference is that i definitively prefer the Romer-G tactical switches to the Gateron Optical blues. The Gateron Optical Blues are a bit too light for me but are still a huge huge upgrade from my garbage, abysmal, i could go on for days insulting this horrible Corsair K55. I did find a tear down video confirming what you said about the optical switches being replaceable, and i found Brown, Blacks, Reds, Silvers and Yellows on epathbuy so i'm gonna order a 10 pack of each and figure out what i like. I've been doing research for a year now and i will eventually lube, switch film and 3D print/Mold new key-caps on the entire board to make it fully my own style. Thanks for helping with your review!
hey, have you done this? looking to do the exact same thing lol
Is it weird that I like the little squeak of the keys?
hmmm, I wonder what would be a good 96% alternative that is both Mac and PC compatible
GK96s from Epomaker
Thumbs up for the PreSonus speakers. I own the 3.5s and I think they're great.
Oh...nice video, too. 😁
yeh ,pretty sweet :)
Just a question. If the battery is removed, will the keyboard still work via wire? Thanks!
I made the mistake of buying a Keychron K7. What I received was NOT wireless (no dongle included) and, when connected by USB cable, many keys did not work. When I asked Keychron for an RMA, they demanded that I send them a video proving that I had not falsified the results of their keyboard test. Keychron has ignored all my subsequent requests for an RMA and a refund.
There are many reputable companies making keyboards. Before buying anything from Keychron, think! Do you want to give your money to a company that treats its customers this way?
I have no squeak spacebar on my K2
everybody gangsta till they spacebar squeaks
It’s interesting that this doesn’t seem to have nearly as much ping as the K2 does. I agree the Bluetooth and Mac compatibility is it’s biggest draw card and the reason I purchased the K2 last year. The switches on the side to change OS and between cable and Bluetooth do seem quite flimsy though (I don’t know if they improved this for this board). I have seen reports of people breaking these through both regular use and when disassembling the board if not careful.
I use a lot of creative programs that use numpad shortcuts. I've never owned a mechanical keyboard for any length of time. I bought the Logitech G613 with Romer-G switches and really loved it, but returned it after a day because it didn't have any back-light and i couldn't see the keyboard while i edited videos in low light. Do you know how the K4 Gaterons and Gateron Opticals compare to the Romer-G?
Romer switches feel softer to me than MX browns. Like there is a cushion under them. They are light and low travel. With MX browns there is more of a bump and they comes down on the metal plate more firmly. The Orion G910 has back lighting if you like Romer Switches and has really good back lighting. Honestly I'd rather get a Ducky Shine 7 or the Keychron though.
@@goxcpre Yeah i liked that short travel. I went ahead and bought the Keychron K4 with Optical Blues, which i don't like as much but are way better that what i currently had. Luckily i can swap them with any other Gateron Optical switches i want. I looked at the specs of the RomerG tactile switches in the G613 and they compare most closely to the specs of the Gateron Optical Silvers as far as i can tell. So i'm going to buy a few of them to try out in the K4.
You think is fine this for a programmer? I have already buy it, but sometimes i think of the K2 would been a more reasonable choice.
I came on this channel for a good slim mechanical keyboard but now I'm lost & confused in this keyboard worm whole ... great vids though
I don't care what none of y'all say, I still love her
If the cable is plugged in, does the keyboard not require bluetooth connection and automatically use the cable to transfer data?
What's the red keyboard in the background?
Hi. I got my Keychron K6 two weeks ago. It's my first mech, so it's bare bones (non-hot swappable, no aluminum). Opted for the Brown switches for typing tactility. However, while I like the thocc thocc sounds, I expected a little more resistance at each key press. If my understanding is right, I need Cherry MX Blacks in my next mech purchase (is that right?). Right now, I want to ask if there are springs I can buy to put under the keycaps, to at least increase the key press resistance (and what are these springs called, so I can Google them up).
Hi TaeKeboards, had you tried Hexgears brands?
Does anyone know a good solution to get this keyboard as a german QWERTZ version? Keychron seems like the best choice for a minimalistic bluetooth mechanical keyboard but I can't spend this money on a keyboard on which I can't even type some german letters (eg Ä Ü Ö and I also think >< are missing on US layout?).
Ok I can definitely see/ understand why this isnt a great keyboard stock but I was looking at purchasing it to MOD it. I already have gateron milky blacks switches to put in (iv desoldered before), looking at getting another custom keycap set along with lubing/clipping/ bandaid mod/ orings. Think this would be enough to turn it into something nice or should I get something like the Vortex Vibe which already has nice keycaps and switches I would be satisfied with lubing (gat silent blacks) and in most arguments has a better layout/ build quality?
Fair enough mate, you can make it nice!
the flatness is actually good, it gives flexibility, because some people might prefer flat.