Ducky One 3 Classic 80% TKL Mechanical Keyboard Review – Cherry MX Red Switches, Hot-Swappable
Ducky One 3 Classic 80% TKL Mechanical Keyboard Review – Cherry MX Red Switches, Hot-Swappable
This review dives deep into the Ducky One 3 Classic 80% TKL Mechanical Keyboard, a keyboard that boasts Cherry MX Red switches, a hot-swappable design, double-shot PBT keycaps, and a detachable USB-C cable. Having spent considerable time typing and gaming on this keyboard, I’ll share my honest insights on its features, performance, and overall value.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Ducky One 3 Classic 80% TKL Mechanical Keyboard aims to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. It’s a compact keyboard designed for users who prioritize a streamlined desktop setup while enjoying the tactile feedback of mechanical switches. Let’s delve into its key features and how it stacks up against the competition.
Features
The Ducky One 3 Classic TKL packs a punch in terms of features:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | Cherry MX Red |
| Keycaps | Double-Shot PBT |
| Layout | ENG-ARAB |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Cable | Detachable |
| Backlighting | RGB |
| N-Key Rollover | Full N-Key Rollover |
Performance
The Cherry MX Red switches offer a smooth and linear typing experience. They’re known for their light actuation force, making them ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a responsive feel. The double-shot PBT keycaps provide a robust and durable typing surface, resisting shine and wear even with prolonged use.
The hot-swappable design is a game-changer, allowing you to customize your keyboard to your liking by swapping switches without soldering. This opens up a world of possibilities for tailoring the keyboard to your specific preferences. The detachable USB-C cable ensures a convenient and secure connection.
The RGB lighting is vibrant and customizable, allowing you to personalize the keyboard’s appearance. The ENG-ARAB layout caters to users who require both English and Arabic characters.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Smooth and responsive Cherry MX Red switches
- Hot-swappable design for customizable switch options
- Durable double-shot PBT keycaps
- Detachable USB-C cable for convenient connectivity
- Vibrant RGB lighting with customizable options
- Compact 80% TKL layout
Cons:
- No dedicated media keys
- Can be slightly pricier compared to some other TKL keyboards
Final Verdict
The Ducky One 3 Classic 80% TKL Mechanical Keyboard is a strong contender in the TKL keyboard market. Its combination of Cherry MX Red switches, hot-swappable design, double-shot PBT keycaps, and detachable USB-C cable delivers a premium typing experience. While it lacks dedicated media keys and can be a bit pricier, the overall quality and features make it a worthy investment for serious typists and gamers. I highly recommend this keyboard to anyone seeking a reliable and customizable mechanical keyboard with a compact footprint.
