Redragon K686 PRO Wireless Gaming Keyboard Review 2024 Compact Design and Noise Dampening

Description

Introduction to the Redragon K686 PRO Gaming Keyboard

Testing the Redragon K686 PRO 98 Keys Wireless Gasket RGB Gaming Keyboard has been a fascinating experience, especially for someone like me who spends countless hours typing and gaming. With its blue Himmel color scheme, this keyboard immediately stands out visually. However, aesthetics alone don’t make a product worth recommending; it’s the features and performance that seal the deal. Let me take you through my experience and thoughts about this mechanical keyboard, including its gasket design, multi-mode connectivity, and hot-swappable switches.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me was the gasket-mounted construction. This isn’t just a fancy term; it impacts both the look and feel of the keyboard. Unlike traditional screw-fixed designs, the gasket structure uses precision-locked covers with silicone gaskets, which help with noise reduction and add a slight flex to the deck. Typing feels softer yet responsive, and the vertical cushioning practically eliminates the harsh, rigid noise you’d expect from other mechanical keyboards.

The Blue Himmel color is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of aesthetic. Personally, I found it refreshing compared to the sea of black or white gaming keyboards out there. Weighing in at 2.38 pounds, it has enough heft to feel premium without being cumbersome. Measuring 16.89 x 7.44 x 2.52 inches, it’s compact yet retains all the functionality of a full-sized keyboard thanks to its 98-key layout.

Key Benefits

• Gasket Design: Delivers a quieter typing experience with a cleaner and softer feel.
• Compact Layout: Maintains full functionality while saving desk space.
• Durable Build: Feels solid, with a premium finish that resists fingerprints and smudges.

Connectivity Options

This keyboard is a multitasking beast. It offers three modes of connectivity—USB-C wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth (3.0/5.0). Switching between devices is seamless, especially when I’m toggling between my gaming rig and my work laptop. The Bluetooth stability deserves a shoutout; pairing was instantaneous, and I didn’t experience any lag even when typing at high speeds or gaming.

For gamers, the 2.4GHz wireless mode is a game-changer. Input latency is practically non-existent, which is crucial when every millisecond counts. The USB-C wired connection, meanwhile, ensures that you can keep using the keyboard while charging its lithium-polymer battery, which is included in the package.

Typing and Gaming Performance

The hot-swappable switches are one of my favorite aspects of this keyboard. Supporting nearly all 3-pin and 5-pin switches, it offers a level of customization that’s rare in this price bracket. I tested it with the pre-installed linear red switches and was impressed by the buttery-smooth keystrokes. The absence of tactile bumps makes it perfect for gaming, where quick key presses are essential.

However, I also swapped in a tactile switch for typing and found that the upgraded socket design made the process incredibly easy. The switches fit snugly and didn’t wiggle, which is a testament to the improved stability of the mounting system.

Gaming performance was stellar. The RGB backlighting, customizable via the Pro Software, not only looked stunning but also provided excellent visibility in dim lighting. The dedicated control knob is another standout feature. Adjusting volume or skipping tracks during a gaming session was effortless and incredibly convenient.

Noise Dampening Technology

This keyboard is equipped with five layers of noise-dampening materials, including 3.5mm PO foam, IXPE switch foam, and a silicone gasket. Honestly, I didn’t expect such a noticeable difference, but the typing acoustics are ultra-clean. Even during frantic gaming sessions or long typing marathons, the hollow noise often associated with mechanical keyboards was almost non-existent.

Areas for Improvement

• Lack of Adjustable Feet: While the keyboard’s typing angle felt comfortable, the absence of adjustable feet might be a dealbreaker for those who prefer a steeper incline.
• Software Complexity: The Pro Software, while feature-rich, has a bit of a learning curve. Setting up custom macros and lighting effects isn’t as intuitive as I’d hoped.
• Battery Indicator: A more prominent battery indicator would have been helpful. It’s easy to lose track of battery levels without constantly checking.

Competing Products

In the world of mechanical gaming keyboards, competition is fierce. The Keychron K8 comes to mind as a direct competitor. Both keyboards offer hot-swappable switches, multi-mode connectivity, and compact layouts. However, the Redragon K686 PRO edges out the Keychron with its gasket-mounted design, which provides a quieter and softer typing experience.

On the flip side, the Keychron K8’s software is more intuitive, making it easier to customize lighting and macros. Another contender is the Razer BlackWidow V3, known for its robust build and excellent RGB lighting. Yet, it lacks the hot-swappable functionality and gasket-mounted construction, making the Redragon keyboard a more versatile choice overall.

Price Performance

Evaluating the value proposition of this keyboard, it’s clear that it punches above its weight class. You’d typically expect features like hot-swappable switches, noise dampening layers, and gasket-mounted construction in pricier models. While the software could use some refinement, the overall cost-effectiveness of this product makes it a smart buy for gamers and typists alike.

Is it perfect? No, but the minor trade-offs are far outweighed by the performance, connectivity options, and customization it offers. Whether you’re a casual gamer, a hardcore enthusiast, or someone who types all day, this keyboard delivers true value without breaking the bank.

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