Ducky One 3 65% Mechanical Keyboard Review: Cherry Red Switches, PBT Keycaps & More

Ducky One 3 65% Mechanical Keyboard Review: Cherry Red Switches, PBT Keycaps & More

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Ducky One 3 65% mechanical keyboard is a compact and feature-rich option for gamers and enthusiasts alike. This keyboard boasts a sleek design, Cherry RGB Red switches, Double Shot PBT keycaps, and a hot-swappable design. I’ve had the opportunity to test this keyboard extensively over the past few weeks, and I’m ready to share my thoughts.

Features

The Ducky One 3 65% packs a lot of features into its compact footprint. Here are some of the key highlights:

  • 65% Layout: This compact layout removes the function row and arrow keys, making it ideal for those who prefer a minimalist setup.
  • Cherry MX RGB Red Switches: These linear switches provide a smooth, responsive typing experience with minimal actuation force, perfect for fast-paced gaming.
  • Double Shot PBT Keycaps: The PBT keycaps offer excellent durability and a textured feel that resists shine and fingerprints.
  • Hot-Swappable Switches: This feature allows you to easily switch out the switches to customize the keyboard’s feel to your liking.
  • Detachable USB-C Cable: The braided USB-C cable offers a secure connection and allows for easy cable management.
  • ENG-ARAB Layout: This layout is ideal for users who need to switch between English and Arabic typing.
  • RGB Backlighting: The per-key RGB lighting allows for vibrant customization options.

Performance

The Ducky One 3 65% shines in its performance, delivering a smooth and responsive typing experience. The Cherry MX RGB Red switches offer a fast, linear feel, perfect for gaming and typing. The keycaps are incredibly durable and provide a satisfying, tactile feedback. The compact layout took some getting used to, but it quickly became second nature.

The RGB lighting is bright and customizable, allowing me to create personalized light profiles for different games and applications. The detachable USB-C cable is a welcome addition, allowing for easy replacement and cable management.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the Ducky One 3 65% keyboard’s strengths and weaknesses:

Pros:

  • Compact 65% layout
  • Cherry MX RGB Red switches
  • Durable Double Shot PBT keycaps
  • Hot-swappable switches
  • Detachable USB-C cable
  • Vibrant RGB lighting
  • Eng-Arab layout

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for everyone due to the compact layout
  • No dedicated media keys

Final Verdict

The Ducky One 3 65% mechanical keyboard is an excellent choice for gamers and enthusiasts who prefer a compact and feature-rich keyboard. The Cherry MX RGB Red switches, PBT keycaps, and hot-swappable design make this keyboard a joy to use. While the compact layout might not be ideal for everyone, the Ducky One 3 65% offers a truly satisfying typing experience. If you’re looking for a quality keyboard with a sleek design and top-notch performance, the Ducky One 3 65% is definitely worth considering.

Specifications