At a glance
The Keychron Q16 HE is a mechanical keyboard that stands out for its unique design and materials. It features ceramic keycaps and a ceramic body, which gives it a luxurious feel and an elegant appearance. The typing experience is described as “thocky” and satisfying, making it appealing to those who appreciate the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
However, there are some drawbacks. The keyboard does not support wireless connectivity, and it offers limited customization options compared to other models in the same price range. Additionally, it comes with a higher price tag, which may be a concern for budget-conscious buyers.
Despite these limitations, the Q16 HE is considered a premium option due to its unique materials and build quality. For those who value aesthetics and a high-quality typing experience, it could be a worthwhile investment.
Pros
- Unique keycaps and body: The Q16 HE uses ceramic material for both the keycaps and the body, which is a rare feature among mechanical keyboards.
- Gorgeous design: The ceramic finish gives the keyboard a sleek and sophisticated look that stands out from other models.
- Luxurious typing: The thick, heavy keycaps provide a satisfying typing experience, with a unique “thocky” sound that many users find appealing.
Cons
- No wireless: The keyboard lacks wireless connectivity, which may be a drawback for users who prefer a more flexible setup.
- Few customization options: Compared to other mechanical keyboards, the Q16 HE offers limited options for switch customization and hardware modifications.
- Pricey: The keyboard is relatively expensive, especially when considering the cost of ceramic keycaps alone.
Our Verdict
The Keychron Q16 HE is priced at $239.99, which may seem steep to some, but it is justified by the use of premium ceramic materials. While it doesn’t offer the same level of customization as other mechanical keyboards, it provides a unique and luxurious typing experience that appeals to those who prioritize aesthetics and build quality.
If you’re looking for a keyboard that stands out for its design and feel, the Q16 HE is worth considering. However, if you’re looking for more flexibility in terms of switches and customization, you might want to explore other options.
What makes a keyboard “premium”?
A premium keyboard is often defined by its overall experience, including the feel of the keys, its technical capabilities, and its visual appeal. For the Keychron Q16 HE, the defining factor is the use of ceramic material, which sets it apart from other mechanical keyboards on the market.
The Q16 HE is the first mechanical keyboard to incorporate ceramic for both the keycaps and the body. This material choice gives the keyboard a distinctive look and feel, making it stand out in a crowded market. Underneath this headline feature, the keyboard retains the standard Q series capabilities, such as hot-swap switches, RGB lighting, and easy programming options.
One notable feature of the Q16 HE is the adjustable actuation of its magnetic switches, which is indicated by the “HE” designation. This feature may be particularly appealing to gamers who want more control over their input.
Tickling the ivories
The custom keycaps of the Q16 HE come in white or black, continuing the piano theme. These keycaps are made with a ceramic top and sides, while the base and stem are likely made of plastic, possibly POM. This design choice is necessary because ceramic is too brittle to be used for the entire keycap.
Despite this, the keycaps are thick and heavy, offering a premium feel. The slippery glaze on the ceramic surface feels unique and satisfying, adding to the overall luxury of the keyboard. However, this slick surface may not be ideal for everyone, especially those with mobility or dexterity issues, as it can make typing more challenging.
Magnetic switches
Underneath the keycaps are Keychron’s custom-produced magnetic switches, designated as “Lime.” These switches are linear and light, with a spring weight of 48 grams. They offer a smooth and consistent typing experience, thanks to the nature of hall effect magnetic switches.
While these switches can be swapped out, the customization options are limited. Keychron offers three variants, but they are far fewer than what is available for standard mechanical keyboards. This lack of options is a trade-off for the adjustable actuation functionality.
Customization options are lacking
The Q16 HE has limited hardware customization options. Unlike other Q-series boards, it requires removing screws from the plate to access the internal components, as the ceramic body is a single piece. This design choice limits the ability to modify the keyboard further.
Inside, there is a single layer of foam, a thin plastic layer, and another layer between the plate and the PCB. This minimal internal structure means there isn’t much room for modification. Additionally, the keyboard lacks adjustable feet, which is a common feature on many mechanical keyboards.
Software customization tools
Despite the limited hardware customization, the Q16 HE offers robust software tools through Keychron’s browser-based interface. The Keychron Launcher allows users to adjust mappings, lighting, macros, and firmware updates. This interface is praised for being user-friendly and straightforward.
However, the keyboard’s gaming functions are somewhat limited compared to other adjustable actuation keyboards. Users can set actuation distances for individual keys and activate rapid trigger settings, but the keyboard is not specifically marketed for gaming. This may be a drawback for serious gamers.
Is the Keychron Q16 HE keyboard worth it?
The Q16 HE is a premium keyboard that caters to those who appreciate unique materials and a luxurious typing experience. While it is not the most affordable option, it offers a distinctive design and feel that sets it apart from other models in its price range.
For users who are drawn to the aesthetic and tactile qualities of ceramic keycaps, the Q16 HE is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for more flexibility in terms of switches and customization, you may want to consider alternative options.
