Ducky One 3 SF Aura 65% Mechanical Keyboard Review – Cherry MX Red Switches, Hot Swappable PCB
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Ducky One 3 SF Aura 65% Mechanical Keyboard Review: A Compact Typing Champion
The Ducky One 3 SF Aura 65% Mechanical Keyboard is a compact and stylish keyboard designed for those who prioritize space-saving without compromising on features and quality. This keyboard boasts Cherry MX Red switches, a hot-swappable PCB, PBT double-shot keycaps, and a detachable braided Type-C USB cable. But does it live up to its hype? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into the Ducky One 3 SF Aura’s strengths, weaknesses, and overall performance.
Features and Design
The Ducky One 3 SF Aura 65% is a striking example of how compact keyboards can be both functional and visually appealing. Its 65% layout eliminates the number pad and some function keys, resulting in a smaller footprint without sacrificing essential features. The keyboard’s minimalist design and high-quality construction are immediately apparent.
Here are some notable features:
* **Cherry MX Red Switches:** These linear switches provide a smooth and responsive typing experience, ideal for gamers and typists alike.
* **Hot Swappable PCB:** The ability to hot-swap switches allows for easy customization and experimentation with different switch types.
* **PBT Double-Shot Keycaps:** These keycaps are resistant to shine and offer a durable, textured feel for a comfortable typing experience.
* **Detachable Braided Type-C USB Cable:** The braided cable provides a secure connection and adds to the keyboard’s premium look.
* **RGB Lighting:** The keyboard features per-key RGB lighting with multiple lighting effects, allowing for customization and visual flair.
Performance and Typing Experience
The Ducky One 3 SF Aura delivers an exceptional typing experience. The Cherry MX Red switches are smooth, responsive, and silent, making them a joy to use for both typing and gaming. The actuation force is light, offering a satisfying tactile feedback without being overly clicky.
The PBT keycaps feel great under the fingertips, offering a textured surface that provides a good balance of grip and smoothness. The keycaps are also very durable, resisting shine and wear, ensuring longevity.
Pros and Cons
**Pros:**
* Excellent typing experience with Cherry MX Red switches
* Compact 65% layout saves desk space
* Hot-swappable PCB allows for easy customization
* Durable PBT double-shot keycaps resist shine and wear
* Detachable braided Type-C USB cable for a secure connection
* RGB lighting with multiple customizable effects
* Solid construction and high-quality materials
**Cons:**
* No dedicated media keys
* The lack of a number pad may be inconvenient for some users
* Price point may be high compared to some other 65% keyboards
Final Verdict
The Ducky One 3 SF Aura 65% Mechanical Keyboard is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a compact, customizable, and high-performance keyboard. Its Cherry MX Red switches, hot-swappable PCB, PBT keycaps, and RGB lighting combine to create an exceptional typing experience that is sure to please both gamers and enthusiasts. While the price may be a consideration for some, the Ducky One 3 SF Aura’s quality, features, and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a top-tier mechanical keyboard.
