Keychron K2 V2 Review: They Fixed It!


The Keychron K2 is back and better than ever.

The version 2 design is here to answer to the complaints of the previous model with Bluetooth 5.1 capabilities and multiple typing angle options.

Combining the core components of the Keychron K2 with the new features to promote comfort and versatility, the keyboard an excellent 75% keyboard option.

Let’s get into the review of what makes the Keychron K2 V2 so much better than the first model.

The Verdict

Keychron K2 V2 angled view

Revamped to address consumer complaints, the Keychron K2 V2 lands much higher in our favor this time around.

Keychron made many necessary changes to the Keychron K2, most notably angling the case to save our wrists and bringing in Bluetooth 5.1 capabilities.

This new model is now a solid 75% keyboard option that allows tons of customization in features you can purchase and what you can do once you have the keyboard.

The Keychron K2 V2 has options for ABS or PBT, white backlit or RGB, and ABS or aluminum casing; the features you add determine the price point.

Built into all of the models is the ability to switch between Mac or Windows via a simple slider on the side of the keyboard, and another slider exists to quickly switch to Bluetooth and use the K2 V2 with any device.

I do wish the Keychron K2 V2 was hot-swappable, but the three switch options are sufficient to find the feel you are looking for (linear, clicky, or tactile).

If you are interested in the Keychron K2 V2, be sure to check it out here.


In The Box

The Keychron K2 V2 comes with several essential items that will help get you set up immediately. The items you’ll find in the box are:

  • Extra keycaps: Additional keycaps are helpfully included to modify the keyboard for Windows or Mac use.
  • Power cable: The power cable included is a nice black braided cable. The head is at a 90-degree angle to fit into the recessed area on the keyboard (more about this later!).
  • Wire Keycap Puller: A wire keycap puller is included to make the process of switching out keycaps really quick and easy.
  • Wrist Rest: If you would like extra wrist support, Keychron sells a really nice wood wrist rest. It looks classy and I’ve found it to be really comfortable. I highly recommend getting one if you tend to have wrist pain from typing.

Overall, everything helps tie the whole package together. The wooden wrist rest is an excellent addition to any workstation.


Build Quality

Keychron K2 V2 side view

The Keychron K2 V2 is built very nicely. There is also an aluminum frame variation of the K2 V2 if you would like that extra support.

This model has a variety of choices when it comes to build, lighting, and keycaps (varying in price), allowing you to pick and choose the qualities you would like to see.

Let’s talk about the USB port… the port is located in a little recessed area on the left side of the keyboard.

I don’t hate it, but it doesn’t work as well if you want to use a custom cable.

The cable included with the Keychron K2 V2 is angled at the end for a reason, to fit into the side. I would have preferred the port to be on the back of the case, but ultimately this is not a huge takeaway from the keyboard.

One of the main complaints about the Keychron K2 was the flat case. It was strange to type on and only had one kickstand angle, creating a pretty uncomfortable experience for the wrists.

Well, Keychron clearly heard the angry cries and adjusted the design for try #2. The K2 V2 features an angled case design and adjustable kickstands to achieve a variety of typing angles.

The keycaps are in the standard OEM profile, meaning the keycaps are angled and vary in heights to create a comfortable resting position for your hands and fingers.

Our model of the Keychron K2 V2 contains RGB lighting, which always adds character to the desk setup. The colors and modes are really easy to access and cycle through by pressing the light button on the top right corner of the keyboard.

There is an option to purchase the keyboard with only a white backlight if you aren’t into bright colors.

The Keycaps

Keychron K2 V2 angled view

The Keychron K2 V2 utilizes keycaps made from ABS plastic, though there is an option to get the model with PBT keycaps.

The PBT version has different colored keys- a green/brown and dark grey color scheme as opposed to the two-tone grey keycaps on the keyboard I have.

Although I typically prefer PBT keycaps, the ABS keycaps on the Keychron K2 V2 have a smooth feel. I haven’t noticed them getting shiny from use yet (one of the main complaints of ABS keycaps).

The keycaps on the K2 V2 are doubleshot, with the sub legends also having a shine-through effect. This is a small touch that I appreciate a lot, most companies would simply print the legends on.

It makes it easy to see the legends when the backlight is turned on. Which helps a lot because the keycaps are little low contrast.

I also enjoy the font on the legends, it is simple and easy to read.

The Switches

Keychron K2 V2 switches

The Keychron K2 V2 is not hot-swappable so you’re stuck with whatever switch it comes with. It would be nice if it was hot-swappable like the Keychron K6, but that update is coming soon.

Luckily you have a few options for switches, so you should be able to find something that suits your needs.

The Gateron switches available are: red, blue, and brown. See below to for a short summary of each switches’ characteristics.

Red: These switches are super smooth, linear, quiet, and great for gaming.

Blue: Gateron blues are super loud and clicky. They may be satisfying to use, but an annoyance to anyone else in the room.

Brown: Gateron browns are tactile switches, so they will have a medium noise level. These can be a good choice for general typing use or even for gaming.

For more information on Gateron switches, check out our post: Gateron Switch Guide: Budget-Friendly and Smooth.

The Stabilizers

The stabilizers on the Keychron K2 V2 come factory-lubed, but I still found them to be a little wobbly. The stabilizers aren’t the best but they get the job done.

Since I have Gateron brown switches, the sound is a little louder than if I had opted for a linear switch. If you go with the Gateron reds there will be less movement and therefore less noise.

If the keyboard was hot-swappable (like the K6) it would be easy to pull the switches out and mod the stabilizers for an even better typing experience.

Since that isn’t an option we recommend following this guide for lubing your stabilizers without desoldering.

Windows/Mac Compatible

There is handily a slider on the side of the keyboard to change between Mac and Windows functionality.

The additional Mac function keycaps can easily be added to the keyboard for use with a Mac laptop or desktop.

Even though keyboards are increasingly compatible with multiple systems, it’s nice how Keychron included the keycaps and slider to switch between Mac and Windows effortlessly.

Wireless/Wired Connectivity

One of the most desired features of the Keychron K2 V2 is its Bluetooth 5.1 connection. The keyboard can connect up to three devices, great for people who like to switch devices frequently.

The Keychron K2 V2 can connect via Bluetooth to all devices, working with Android, Windows, Mac, and iOS.

The slider to go from wired to wireless is on the side of the keyboard next to the Mac/Windows slider.

Super convenient and easy to use.


Conclusion

Keychron K2 V2 with wrist rest

Overall, I am pleased with the much-needed changes Keychron has brought to this keyboard.

The Keychron K2 V2 answers to most of the criticisms from the original design, creating a keyboard that is now a top 75% keyboard contender.

It is evident from these changes that Keychron cares about consumer wishes, something I definitely appreciate. In future models, I hope to see hot-swappable capabilities and relocation of the USB port so I can use my custom cable.

This could be a great option for gamers or someone looking for a more compact option from a full-size keyboard. The customization options truly allow you to tailor the keyboard to your specific needs.

Aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to type on, the Keychron K2 V2 is a steadfast, high-quality keyboard that would work for a variety of purposes.

Remember to check out the Keychron K2 V2 here if you think it might be for you.

Jake Harrington

Jake has been an avid mechanical keyboard user for the past six years. He has a background in Mechanical Engineering and wants to apply his expertise to break down how mechanical keyboards and other tech work to show the world all of the cool aspects of the hobby.

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