Keychron K3 Version 2 Review: Unleashing Portability & Versatility
From offering multi-platform compatibility to facilitating a simultaneous Bluetooth connection to three devices, the Keychron K3 Version 2 stands out as a unique blend of portability and versatility. Despite a few drawbacks, it manages to provide an overall satisfactory user experience. Dive into our comprehensive review to explore more.
Today, we're diving into a detailed review of the Keychron K3 Version 2, a compact and feature-packed keyboard that has made some waves in the tech world.
Over the years, I've dissected and scrutinized hundreds of tech products, providing authentic and unbiased insights. From smartphones to gaming consoles, and now keyboards, I've seen it all. It's my mission to help you understand the nitty-gritty of these products, so you can make informed decisions about your tech investments.
As for the Keychron K3 (Version 2), this keyboard isn't just a revamp of the original model. It's an exciting upgrade that holds promising features and improvements, like an aluminium-reinforced frame, customizable full RGB backlighting, and enhanced compatibility. There's certainly a lot to look forward to, so let's delve into the details!
Whether you're a student looking for a keyboard for your online classes, a professional in need of a portable device for work, or a gamer in search of the perfect compact keyboard, this review is for you. Read on to find out if the Keychron K3 Version 2 is the keyboard that fits your needs.
The Keychron K3 (Version 2) is targeted towards users who prioritize portability, wireless functionality, and multi-device compatibility. It caters to both Windows and MacOS users, along with partial support for Linux, Android, and iOS platforms.
- Compact, lightweight, and portable design
- Full RGB backlighting with individually lit keys
- Compatibility across multiple OS platforms
- Simultaneous connection to three devices over Bluetooth
- Hot-swappable keys in the optical version
- Quiet typing with Keychron Low Profile Optical Brown switches
- Brightness of backlighting is dimmer than the original model
- Keycaps are prone to oil shine over time
- Lacks native macro-programmable keys
- Absence of companion software for key remapping
- Decent but not low enough latency for competitive gaming
Given its portability, versatility and multi-platform compatibility, the Keychron K3 (Version 2) is an excellent choice for those who require a keyboard for multiple devices and operating systems. If you're comfortable with using third-party software for key remapping and can overlook its relatively higher latency, this keyboard is a valuable pick.
Test Results
Design
The Keychron K3 (Version 2) is designed with a keen focus on dimensions, build quality, ergonomics, backlighting, connectivity, and additional features. Let's dive into each of these aspects to get a better understanding of what this keyboard brings to the table.
The Keychron K3 (Version 2) stands out with its compact, thin, and lightweight design. It offers great portability, making it a perfect companion for those who frequently travel or move around.
Keychron has significantly improved the build quality of the K3 version 2. The frame is reinforced with an aluminium plate, reducing flex. However, the keycaps made from doubleshot ABS plastic might develop shine over time from finger oil.
The keyboard offers two incline settings for better comfort. The low-profile board and straight layout help with comfort during prolonged use. However, the straight layout might not be to everyone's liking.
The keyboard comes with full RGB backlighting, individually lit keys adjustable via hotkeys. The light intensity is, however, a bit dimmer compared to the original Keychron K3.
The Keychron K3 (Version 2) comes with Bluetooth connectivity, capable of connecting with up to three devices simultaneously. A wired mode is also available via the included USB-C cable.
The keyboard lacks companion software but recommends third-party software for key remapping. It also has a toggle switch for OS (Windows/Android and MacOS/iOS) and is hot-swappable for the optical switches version.
Typing Experience
One of the primary reasons people opt for mechanical keyboards is the typing experience. In this section, we'll explore the keystrokes, typing quality, noise levels, and latency of the Keychron K3 (Version 2).
The keystrokes are provided by Gateron Low Profile mechanical switches or Keychron Low Profile Optical switches. The optical version even allows for hot-swapping of keys. However, the sensitive keys might take some getting used to.
The Keychron K3 (Version 2) provides a decent overall typing experience. The keys might feel a bit cramped due to the compact design. The variants with Keychron Low Profile Optical Brown switches are quiet, adding to the overall comfort.
The keyboard is generally quiet, especially with the Keychron Low Profile Optical Brown switches. However, the noise level can vary depending on the switches used.
While the latency is decent, it might not be low enough for competitive or fast-paced gaming. This won't be an issue for regular typing or casual gaming.
Software
Even the best hardware can fall short without strong software support. Here, we'll delve into the programming features and compatibility of the Keychron K3 (Version 2).
The Keychron K3 (Version 2) lacks native macro-programmable keys due to the absence of companion software. However, Keychron does recommend third-party software for key remapping, offering a workaround for this shortcoming.
The keyboard shows robust compatibility. It's fully compatible with Windows, nearly fully compatible with MacOS (with some exceptions), and works well with Linux when the OS slider is set to Mac/iOS, barring a few exceptions. There is also Android compatibility, but with some hotkey limitations, and on iOS or iPadOS, all keys work except for a couple of hotkeys.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews offer valuable insight into the real-life performance and quality of a product. Let's delve into the user reviews of the Keychron K3 V2 to get a clearer picture of its advantages and any potential downsides.
Benefits
Many customers appreciate the Keychron K3 V2's low-profile design and how it caters to both Mac and Windows users. The compactness and pleasing aesthetics of the keyboard were highlighted frequently. Several reviewers found the keyboard very comfortable and easy to use, with some praising the optical brown switches for their quietness and comfort. Many users expressed satisfaction with the connectivity between devices and overall found the Keychron K3 V2 to be a valuable investment.
Complaints
A few customers expressed initial difficulties adapting to the Keychron K3 V2, particularly with mistyping due to the keys' sensitivity and close spacing. This seems to be a common concern among those who are new to mechanical keyboards or are transitioning from built-in keyboards. However, some reviewers mentioned that they grew accustomed to the keyboard's feel over time.
Customer Conclusion
Overall, the Keychron K3 V2 has garnered positive feedback from users. It's seen as a solid product offering good value for the price, with benefits outweighing complaints. The keyboard's aesthetic appeal, comfort, and cross-platform compatibility have received considerable praise. Despite some initial adjustment needed for certain users, many have found the typing experience enjoyable and satisfying in the long run.
Customer Questions/Answers
Does the package come with extra keys for a Windows layout?
Yes, the package includes extra keycaps for both Windows and MacOS.
Does it work well with Linux Ubuntu?
Yes, the keyboard functions perfectly with Mac, Windows, and Ubuntu Linux.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Keychron K3 (Version 2) makes a strong case for itself in the world of compact keyboards. It's a feature-rich, upgraded version of its predecessor, boasting of multiple improvements.
The keyboard's standout qualities include full RGB backlighting, reinforced build quality, and an impressive array of compatibility options. It's also worth noting its dual incline settings and its ability to connect to multiple devices, enhancing its appeal to a diverse range of users.
While there are some minor downsides, such as the keys being prone to oil shine and the absence of companion software, these drawbacks don't overshadow its strong points. Plus, the keyboard's portability, with its thin and lightweight design, makes it a perfect companion for anyone on the go.
Ultimately, the Keychron K3 (Version 2) is a solid pick, especially for those who value compactness and versatility. Remember, the right keyboard for you depends on your needs and preferences. So, use this review as a guide, but consider your personal typing habits and tech requirements too. Happy typing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between K3 and K3 version 2?
The Keychron K3 version 2 is an upgraded model of the original K3. It brings several improvements including a reinforced chassis to reduce flex, additional incline settings, and slightly dimmer backlighting. However, it retains most key features such as multi-platform compatibility, hot-swappable optical switches, and wireless connectivity.
What is the difference between Keychron K2 V2 and K3 V2?
While both models share several features, they do differ in a few key aspects. The Keychron K2 Version 2 is a compact 75% keyboard with traditional mechanical switches, while the K3 Version 2 uses low profile switches. This makes the K3 thinner and more portable. Additionally, the K3 V2 offers hot-swappable optical switches, a feature not present in K2 V2.
Is Keychron K3 V2 hot-swappable?
Yes, the Keychron K3 Version 2 keyboard is hot-swappable, but only the variant with Keychron low profile optical switches. This allows users to replace switches without the need for soldering, enabling easier customization of the typing experience.
Does Keychron K3 Version 2 come with companion software?
The Keychron K3 Version 2 does not come with companion software. However, Keychron recommends using third-party software for key remapping if users wish to change the default key functions.
What type of switches does the Keychron K3 Version 2 use?
The Keychron K3 Version 2 uses either Gateron Low Profile mechanical switches or Keychron Low Profile Optical switches. The optical switch variant is also hot-swappable.