Deutsch
Español
Français
Italiano
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Русский
Türkçe
Svenska
Chinese
MagyarJamesDonkey RS2 is a modern wireless mechanical keyboard with a retro 90s look
Most mechanical keyboards nowadays are often overly designed with chrome-cut edges, auxiliary buttons and keys, and sometimes even extra displays. The JamesDonkey RS2 keyboard is a callback to simpler times where PCs were just gray, brown, and beige in color. The online store Mechkeys.com has sent us a sample unit for our honest impressions.
Visually, the manufacturer has nailed the design and feel of the classic 90s keyboard. Everything from the slightly roughened beige deck and printed key labels are unmistakable from the era they are emulating. Meanwhile, build quality is thankfully closer to modern keyboards than the ABS plastic keyboards of old. The deck does not teeter or cave whilst typing for a uniform experience between all keys.
What makes the RS2 special is that it marries the retro visual style with many of the benefits of modern keyboards. For one, it carries Gateron G Pro mechanical switches in Brown or Red options that mimic the Brown or Red Cherry MX keys. The Brown keys on our test unit feel comfortable for typing and with a quieter clatter than expected.
Another modern feature is its per-key white backlight. Users can control the brightness and lighting pattern via the fn key. And lastly, there are three modes of connectivity available: 2.4 GHz via an adapter, Bluetooth 5.1, or wired USB. The mode can be toggled via a button on the rear of the keyboard.
There is one major drawback worth mentioning and it relates to the labeling on the keys. Since they are printed and not translucent, the backlight becomes essentially useless if working in a darkened environment. Our picture below shows that the keys do not become illuminated unlike on most other keyboards with backlighting.
Other minor drawbacks include no RGB lighting options, no software, and the potential for the labeling on the keys to rub off over time since they are not engraved like on most modern keyboards. These can be considered sacrifices in order to offer an experience closer to the more barebones 90s style.
The JamesDonkey RS2 is now shipping at MechKeys for $99 USD with Brown or Red switches or $69 USD with no switches or keycaps at all.
Source(s)
