Keychron Q3 TKL Layout Hot-Swappable - Review

Keychron Q3 TKL Layout Hot-Swappable Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Full Aluminum, QMK/VIA Programmable Macro, Double-Gasket DIY Kit Compatible with Mac Windows Linux(Blue)-Barebone Version: A Review

Keychron has been on the forefront of producing some of the best mechanical keyboards in the market, and their newest addition to the Q series - the Q3 Barebone version - is no exception. This mechanical keyboard is designed with a fully customizable tenkeyless layout, full aluminum CNC machined body, double-gasket design, and QMK/VIA support, making it the perfect keyboard for avid typists and gamers alike.

The Q3 Barebone version comes without switches and keycaps, but don't let that deter you. This is actually a plus point as it allows you to fully customize each component you want, resulting in a unique keyboard that is entirely tailored to your needs. Additionally, the hot-swappable sockets are compatible with almost all the MX style 3pin and 5pin mechanical switches on the market, including Gateron, Cherry, Kailh, etc. This means that you can easily swap out switches without the need for soldering.

The keyboard is also equipped with new screw-In PCB stabilizers which enhances the typing experience, especially with the big keys such as the space bar, shift, enter and delete keys. With these stabilizers, the typing experience is more stable and smooth, making it perfect for scenarios where quick typing or gaming accuracy is paramount.

The Q3 is an incredibly customizable keyboard, with QMK/VIA support allowing users to personalize their own keymap with every key and shortcut they desire. The possibilities are endless, from setting macro commands for navigating through documents, to customizing back-lighting colors or even volume adjustments.

Keychron has also included a double-gasket design that ensures the keyboard remains flexible while also improving the overall typing sound quality. Additionally, the company added silicone pads between the top and bottom cases that significantly reduce sound resonance between the metals and reduce the noise of impacted metals during use. The typing experience is satisfying, with the keys providing good feedback and sound quality.

The South-facing RGB LED lights on the Q3 keyboard are impressive. The light is designed to illuminate the keyboard backlight from the typist’s angle, making the keyboard much easier to use in dim or low-light conditions. The led lights are also free from interference when users install OEM or Cherry-profile alternative keycaps onto the keyboard.

Overall, the Keychron Q3 Barebone version is a fantastic mechanical keyboard with a unique customization feature for users who want a keyboard entirely tailored to their needs. The Q3 offers a solid typing experience, has excellent build quality, with double-gasket and silicone pads enhancing the sound quality, all at a reasonable price.

Note that this Barebone version keyboard requires that users purchase switches and keycaps separately for typing purposes. However, the cost of the components required to put this keyboard together can still be lower as compared to buying one pre-built with the usual switches and keycaps.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Keychron Q3 Barebone version to anyone seeking the ultimate personalized typing experience, especially for those in professions where efficient typing plays a critical role. The Keychron Q3 is also highly compatible with Mac Windows Linux making it an excellent addition to any home office or gamer setup.

Key Points:

- Hot-swappable sockets compatible with MX-style 3pin and 5pin mechanical switches on the market without the need for soldering

- Tenkeyless layout with full aluminum CNC machined body, double-gasket design, and QMK/VIA support

- Fully customizable keyboard with QMK/VIA support for personalized keymap with any macro commands or shortcuts you desire

- Double-gasket design and silicone pads enhance the typing sound and experience

- South-facing RGB LED lights are designed to better illuminate the keyboard backlight and provide ease of use

- Switches and keycaps not included, must be bought separately for typing purpose

Keychron Q3 TKL Layout Hot-Swappable

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