Introduction to Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2
The Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2 is a mechanical keyboard that aims to deliver a unique typing experience, featuring Cherry MX2A switches, which include options for brown, red, and silent red configurations. In the review unit sent for evaluation, the most popular choice, MX2A Silent Reds, was included. This keyboard differentiates itself in both functionality and design, providing users with an alternative typing feel, primarily characterized by its muted acoustic feedback and soft keypresses.
Typing Experience and Sound Dampening
One of the most striking features of the Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2 is its silent typing experience, primarily attributed to its bottom-mounted system and large amounts of silicone damping incorporated within its build. The MX2A Silent Red switches utilize internal silicone strips for sound deadening, creating a typing sensation that is notably soft and somewhat mushy. This sensation is heightened by the keyboard’s design, which emphasizes sound dampening to absorb vibrations and provide an unobtrusive typing sound. While this results in a quieter experience overall, some high-pitched rattle remains, although it is often masked effectively by using headphones or speakers.
Stabilizers and Overall Build Quality
The stabilizers employed in the 5QS Mark 2 are of the plate-mounted variety. Despite being factory-lubricated, they exhibit noticeable wobbling right out of the box. This construction flaw is accentuated by the keyboard’s orientation towards muted sounds, making the wobble such an aspect more apparent during use. While the build quality feels solid in general, the stabilizing elements might leave users desiring more stability and robustness, particularly in a keyboard of this caliber.
Hot-Swap Capability and Customization Options
Unlike many contemporary keyboards that offer hot-swap sockets, the Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2 lacks this feature, which may disappoint enthusiasts looking for customizable switch options. Hot-swap sockets allow users to easily change switches without soldering, a feature that has become standard in the industry. This lack of flexibility does mean, however, that the keyboard may be slightly more reliable over time, as hot-swap sockets can be known to fail with heavy use. The trade-off presents users with a dilemma between convenience and durability.
Q Function Software Features
A notable aspect of the 5QS Mark 2 is the “Q” software, designed to allow users to customize RGB lighting and additional functionalities of the keyboard. Within this software, users can create intricate light patterns and animations tailored to their preferences. Additional functionalities include the ability to change the key assignments and utilize external applets to display useful information such as unread messages, system alerts, and even weather forecasts. This feature showcases an effort to blend technology with the typing experience, making it appealing for tech-savvy users.
Practicality of Applets and Color Coding
Despite the innovative ideas embedded in the Q function software, there are significant limitations to its practical application. The use of RGB lights to communicate complex information can be inefficient. For instance, the various colors representing different weather conditions can be confusing at a glance, requiring users to memorize specific meanings. Furthermore, while integrating features such as reminders and notifications might seem advantageous, it raises a question regarding their actual effectiveness compared to direct interactions with the computer. Competing keyboards have addressed information display through integrated secondary screens, presenting a simpler, more user-friendly alternative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2 offers a unique mechanical keyboard experience characterized by its quiet operation and soft typing feel. While it provides an innovative approach through features like the Q function software, its shortcomings—such as the lack of hot-swappable sockets and sometimes impractical information displays—can temper the overall experience. The quality of key stabilizers and the learning curve associated with RGB notifications might deter some users, particularly those expecting a straightforward keyboard experience. Overall, while the 5QS Mark 2 excels in certain aspects, it would benefit from addressing these limitations for a more cohesive offering.
FAQs
1. What are the available switch types for the Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2?
The Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2 can be equipped with Cherry MX2A switches in three variations: brown, red, and silent red.
2. Does the Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2 support hot-swapping of switches?
No, the Das Keyboard 5QS Mark 2 does not have hot-swap sockets for switches. This means that users will need to use the switches that come factory-installed unless they are willing to perform soldering.
3. How does the Q software enhance the user experience?
The Q software allows users to customize various aspects of the keyboard, including RGB lighting animations and key assignments, as well as integrate applets for displaying information like weather and reminders.
4. What is the typing experience like on the 5QS Mark 2?
The typing experience on the 5QS Mark 2 is soft and quiet, thanks to its optimized sound-dampening features and the silent red switches. However, it may feel a bit mushy for some users.
5. Are there any drawbacks to the RGB function in the keyboard?
While the RGB function provides opportunities for customization, it can also be a confusing way to convey detailed information due to color coding that may not be intuitive, thus requiring users to adapt.