The Keychron Q6 is a highly customizable mechanical keyboard that caters to the needs of keyboard enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s a full-size keyboard that offers a premium typing experience, thanks to its all-metal construction and double-gasket design. The Q6 is available in both fully assembled and barebones kit forms, making it an attractive option for both DIYers and those who prefer a ready-to-use product.
Key Switches
The Keychron Q6 comes equipped with Gateron G Pro switches, which are known for their reliability and performance. These switches are available in different variants, including linear, tactile, and clicky options, to suit various typing preferences. The linear switches, such as the Gateron G Pro Red, offer a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback or audible clicks, while the tactile and clicky variants provide a noticeable bump and sound at the actuation point, respectively.
The actuation force and travel distance of these switches are in line with industry standards, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience. The Gateron G Pro switches are also hot-swappable, allowing users to easily replace or customize their switches without the need for soldering.
In comparison to other enthusiast-level switches, the Gateron G Pro series is often praised for its smoothness and consistency. For example, compared to the popular Cherry MX switches, many users find the Gateron G Pro switches to offer a smoother travel and a more pleasant typing experience.
Build Quality
The Keychron Q6’s frame and plate are constructed from 6063 aluminum, which is CNC machined, polished, anodized, and sandblasted to achieve a refined and durable finish. This level of craftsmanship places the Q6 among the top-tier keyboards in terms of build quality, rivaling even high-end and vintage keyboards known for their longevity.
The keyboard exhibits minimal flex and creaking, even under significant typing pressure, thanks to its robust construction and the implementation of sound dampening layers. This solid build ensures a stable and satisfying typing experience.
Keycap Material
The keycaps on the Keychron Q6 are made of double-shot OSA PBT, which is known for its durability and resistance to shine and wear over time. The material and profile of the keycaps contribute to a comfortable and accurate typing experience, while also affecting the overall sound profile of the keyboard. The double-shot molding process ensures that the legends on the keycaps will not fade, even after extensive use.
Connectivity
The Keychron Q6 supports multiple connectivity options, including USB-C for wired connections. While the Q6 does not offer Bluetooth or RF wireless connectivity, its stable wired connection ensures minimal latency, which is crucial for gaming and professional use. The keyboard is designed to be used in wired mode, which provides a reliable and interruption-free connection.
Price
The price of the Keychron Q6 is considered justified by many users, given its premium features and build quality. The barebones version is priced at $165 for early bird customers. When compared to other keyboards with similar features and materials, the Q6 is competitively priced, especially considering its full aluminum construction and customizable options.
Additional costs such as shipping or custom duties for international orders should be taken into account when purchasing the Q6. These costs can vary depending on the region and the shipping method chosen.
In conclusion, the Keychron Q6 stands out as a top choice for keyboard enthusiasts who value customization, build quality, and a premium typing experience. Its price point is competitive, considering the high-quality materials and features it offers. Whether you’re a professional typist, gamer, or hobbyist, the Keychron Q6 is a keyboard that can meet and exceed your expectations.
