Keychron’s K2 HE Transforms Magnets and Wood into a Budget-Friendly Mechanical Keyboard

Priced at $79, the K2 model stands out as a top seller among Keychron’s range of mechanical keyboards. Like its counterparts in the K series, it’s designed to be straightforward yet fully functional, providing the key benefits of a mechanical keyboard. Its 75% layout includes arrow keys and a function key row, but omits the numpad, all within a budget-friendly package.

Keychron is expanding its horizons with an updated take on the K2, introducing the wireless K2 HE. This model features cutting-edge Gateron double-rail magnetic switches. It’s also available with a deluxe casing that ingeniously blends wood, aluminum, and plastic, starting at $130, or $125 for early Kickstarter backers. Gamers might be drawn to the extra functionality provided by the hall effect magnetic switches, but for an additional $10, opting for one of the special editions with either light or dark wood side panels could be more appealing.

In line with Keychron’s tradition for its newer models, the K2 HE is being introduced through Kickstarter. While using crowdfunding as a launch strategy might raise questions, for Keychron, it’s more about leveraging it for marketing rather than funding necessity. Pre-sales are live, with the initial shipments planned for October.

Prospective buyers need to decide between the standard edition featuring an aluminum and plastic build, or the special edition variants in white or black, which include wood alongside aluminum. The black special edition, in particular, sports a dark rosewood finish that evokes the charm of a vintage synthesizer, whereas the white version projects a more minimalist aesthetic.

Although other keyboards on the market feature wooden details or frames, it’s rare to find such designs from established brands like Keychron.

During my evaluation period with the black variant equipped with Gateron Nebula switches, I found it to be exceedingly competent. Despite having numerous keyboards at my disposal, the K2 HE’s quality has deterred me from switching. The board’s construction, which includes aluminum and wood, lends it a premium feel, though the keyboard predominantly comprises plastic. This combination not only looks good but also contributes to a satisfyingly muted yet crisp sound profile.

Notably, the keyboard exhibits none of the common “board ping” sounds. This is achieved through the strategic use of silicone padding and acoustic foam. Moreover, the Gateron magnetic switches, which I’m trying for the first time, introduce minimal wobble and complement the keyboard’s overall build to enhance sound quality. Additionally, the screw-in stabilizers are rattle-free.

Keychron impresses with its straightforward, web-based software for customizing the keyboard’s functionality. This eliminates the need for additional software installations or VIA/QMK configurations, streamlining the overall user experience.

The magnetic switches also play a pivotal role in this context. They allow for precise adjustment of the actuation distance, enabling typists and gamers alike to tailor their keystroke sensitivity. For gamers, in particular, the ability to quickly reset keys facilitates rapid firing, a boon for competitive play.

Inventive users will appreciate the potential to assign multiple actions to a single keystroke, offering a broad canvas for both gaming and productivity enhancements. While the board’s design foregoes flexibility, potentially impacting long-term typing comfort, modifications to reintroduce some flex are feasible.

In terms of keycaps, Keychron opts for the standard Cherry profile, which I found preferable to the taller KSA keycaps typically included. Although the sample I received featured OEM profile caps, I swapped these with Keychron’s Cherry keycaps from my collection, further enhancing my typing experience.

Another commendable feature is the inclusion of two adjustable plastic feet, a detail often overlooked in contemporary mechanical keyboards. Alongside, you’ll find LED backlighting under each key, with 22 distinct modes to suit any preference.

While opting for this more accessible model necessitates some compromises—such as exclusive compatibility with magnetic switches—the array of options in tactile and clicky magnetic switches is growing. However, note that this model lacks a dial control.

Ultimately, Keychron’s K2 HE offers an appealing package, especially for those intrigued by hall effect magnetic switches.