The Keychron K2 HE (Hall Effect) keyboard is a game-changer, offering a new and improved version of the popular K2 model with magnetic switches instead of mechanical ones. This special edition boasts a minimalist design, featuring black or white keys and stylish partly wooden frames, making it a sleek addition to any workspace. Keychron is set to launch the new keyboard on Kickstarter next month, and interested users can sign up for pre-launch notifications to be alerted when it goes live.
Magnetic switches, also known as Hall effect switches, are relatively new to the market, and the K2 HE marks the second Keychron keyboard to utilize them, following the release of the Q1 HE earlier this year. This innovative technology employs magnetic fields to adjust the voltage upon keypress, registering the input with the keyboard’s controller chip. Hall effect switches offer several advantages, starting with increased durability as physical contact between the keycap and switch is eliminated.
The K2 HE further enhances this durability with double-shot PBT keycaps that maintain their color and texture for years. Another significant benefit is enhanced speed and customization. With the magnetic switches on the K2 HE, you can adjust the actuation point of each key, determining how far down you need to press for the keyboard to register a keypress. This level of control allows you to assign multiple actions to a key, such as a light press for walking and a full press for running. Additional benefits include faster feedback and dynamic rapid triggering, making the K2 HE an ideal choice for competitive gamers.
Those concerned about losing the satisfying sound of mechanical switches can rest assured that magnetic switches still produce a sound. The K2 HE incorporates acoustic foam inside the keyboard to dampen sound, resulting in a pleasant “thock” sound, as described by Keychron. The keyboard offers versatile connectivity options, allowing you to use it in wired mode with a USB-C cable, go wireless with 2.4 GHz mode, or connect via Bluetooth and switch between up to three devices. Its 75%, tenkeyless (TKL) layout is a favorite among gamers as it provides more desk space without sacrificing functionality.
Conveniently, the keyboard utilizes a web app for configuration, eliminating the need to download software and ensuring compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux. While the price is not yet available, the Q1 HE retails for $220, so the K2 HE is expected to be priced similarly. With its innovative features, impressive durability, and customizable options, the Keychron K2 HE is poised to be a game-changer in the world of mechanical keyboards.
