The Drevo Calibur V2 is a compact and customizable 65% mechanical keyboard that has garnered attention for its affordability and feature set, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious keyboard enthusiasts. In this detailed review, we will explore the various aspects of the Drevo Calibur V2, including its key switches, build quality, keycap material, connectivity options, and price, to determine if it’s a worthy investment for those looking to enhance their typing experience.
Key Switches
The Drevo Calibur V2 offers a choice between Outemu and Cherry MX switches, which are available in different colors to denote their characteristics—Blue, Brown, Red, and Black. Outemu Blue switches are known for their tactile and clicky feedback, with an actuation force of 60±10gf and a total travel distance of 4.00mm. The tactile force is also rated at 60±10gf, with a pretravel of 2.20±0.6mm. For those who prefer a quieter typing experience, the Brown switches provide a tactile bump without the audible click, and the Red switches offer a smooth, linear action.
The actuation force for the Outemu Red switches is 60±10gf, and they also have a total travel of 4.00mm with a pretravel of 2.20±0.6mm. The Cherry MX variants follow a similar pattern, with the Blue switches being clicky, Browns being tactile, and Reds and Blacks being linear, with varying actuation forces.
While the switches are not hot-swappable, they do provide a satisfying typing experience that can compete with other enthusiast-level switches. For example, Cherry MX switches are renowned for their reliability and consistency, often compared favorably to other high-end switches.
Build Quality
The Drevo Calibur V2 is constructed with a durable frame and plate, though specific materials are not detailed in the provided sources. Users have reported that the keyboard feels solid and well-built, with minimal flex or creaking when typing or applying pressure to the chassis. This level of build quality is impressive, especially when compared to other high-end or vintage keyboards that are often praised for their sturdiness and longevity.
Keycap Material
The keycaps on the Drevo Calibur V2 are made of ABS plastic with laser-marked legends. While ABS keycaps are not as resistant to shine as PBT keycaps, they still offer a decent typing experience and allow the RGB lighting to shine through clearly. The keycaps are not specified as being double-shot or dye-sublimated, which are processes that can enhance the durability of the legends. The sound profile of the keyboard is affected by the keycap material, with ABS typically producing a higher-pitched sound compared to PBT.
Connectivity
The Drevo Calibur V2 supports a detachable USB Type-C connection but does not have wireless capabilities such as Bluetooth. This means that while the keyboard can be used in wired mode with low latency, it lacks the versatility of wireless pairing and the ability to switch between multiple devices seamlessly.
Price
The Drevo Calibur V2 is positioned as an affordable mechanical keyboard, and many users feel that the price point is justified given its features and build quality. When compared to other keyboards with similar features and materials, the Drevo Calibur V2 often comes out as a more budget-friendly option. However, potential buyers should consider additional costs such as shipping or customs duties for international orders, which can affect the overall value proposition.
In conclusion, the Drevo Calibur V2 stands out as a solid choice for keyboard enthusiasts who are looking for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard without compromising on customization and typing experience. While it may not offer the premium features of high-end keyboards, such as hot-swappable switches or wireless connectivity, its combination of switch options, sturdy build, and attractive pricing make it a compelling option for both newcomers and seasoned users alike.
