Keychron K2 (V2) Compact Keyboard for Windows & Mac - Plastic Frame

An ode to the Keychron K2 keyboard

Take a seat

Normally, we use this section of text to write something fun and light-hearted about a product. However, I want to use it now to make sure you grab a cup of coffee or tea before you start reading, because there's quite a lot to tell about the K2. Are you seated? Perhaps a biscuit too? Let’s go!

Why the Keychron K2 keyboard?

Very complete

The Keychron K2 gives you all the keys and functions you need in a compact size. This means that a numeric keypad is missing, for ergonomic reasons, but it does have hotkeys that can be used by pressing combination keys.

The K2's connectivity is fantastic. Via Bluetooth 5.1, you can wirelessly connect up to three devices to the keyboard simultaneously. Using combination keys, you can quickly and easily switch between your devices. For example, one moment you're working on your laptop, and the next you're quickly typing a WhatsApp message about dinner. A fourth device can be connected with a cable (USB). Of course, you can also connect a single device and use the USB cable for that.

Hot Swappable

With the updated Hot Swappable version of the K2, you can go wild. Feel free to test what you like best or go all out, it's up to you. Out with those WASD keys, because they need to be red for gaming. I'll keep the other letters brown. Oh, and I'll give that Enter key a blue switch for that satisfying 'click' sound when I hit it.

Hot Swappable means you can easily remove the switches and put (different) ones back in. Now we hear you thinking: "Why? Can't you do that with non-Hot-Swappable ones?" The answer is no. Normally, the switches are soldered. If you want different switches, you have to desolder the "old" ones and resolder the "new" ones. This is quite a task and not everyone has the necessary equipment for it. So, if you ever plan to replace (part of) your switches, it's best to get the Hot Swappable variant of the K2.

Difference between standard and Hot Swappable

The biggest difference between the standard and Hot Swappable version is, of course, the hot-swappable switches, but Keychron has done more than just apply Gateron Hot-Swappable switches to the K2. You'll notice that the keycaps of the Hot Swappable variant have had a small refresh. They have opted for a white/anthracite layout instead of a black/grey one. That certainly doesn't look bad. They have also now put Double-Shot ABS keycaps on the K2, so the key legends cannot fade and are always beautifully aligned.

Hot-swappable compatibility

The K2 hot-swappable is compatible with almost all MX style 3-pin and 5-pin switches. Gateron, Cherry, Kailh fall under this. If you want to get the most out of the backlight, make sure you choose the SMD-LED compatible switch.

Aluminium or plastic frame

With this model of the Keychron keyboard, you have the choice between an aluminium or a plastic (ABS) frame. The plastic frame is a bit lighter; 663 grams compared to the aluminium model's 794 grams. Personally, we find the keyboard with the aluminium frame feels a bit more solid than the keyboard with the plastic frame. However, that doesn't mean the plastic frame can't take a knock; in that respect, it's on par with the aluminium variant. You could also consider the price difference in your choice, with the plastic variant being slightly more affordable.

Matching K2 wrist rest

Keychron has specially designed two wrist rests for the K2. One is made of American walnut wood. The other combines this same wood with resin for a unique look. Furthermore, the wrist rests have 4 anti-slip points that ensure they stay in place.

Thanks to the support, your wrists and hands are at the correct height to use the keyboard. This optimises relaxation and prevents injuries. You can add the wrist rests to your order at the top right of the page. You can read more about the wooden wrist rest here. And here you can read more about the resin wrist rest.

PLEASE NOTE: Keychron wrist rests are natural products and therefore never identical. The product received may therefore differ from the photo.

Retro Mac keycaps

The Retro Mac Keycaps for the K2 give your keyboard a cool look. All keys, including the arrow keys, are printed in italic instead of straight. Most keycaps are white, the rest are grey, and the orange Escape key is replaced by a red key. Here you will find more information about the Retro keycaps with OEM profile, here you will find them with the lower XDA profile. You can add the keycaps to your order at the top right of the page.

All-the-colours-of-the-rainbow keycaps

Not a fan of retro keycaps but would like something different? In that case, we recommend taking a look at our DYE-SUB keycaps. We have them in blue, grey, white, green, black, and even a rainbow set. With 11 variants, there's something for everyone.

Carrying case

The Keychron carrying case is the optimal way to transport your Keychron keyboard. The case opens and closes with a zip and consists of a compartment for the keyboard and a compartment for the cable. The case is made of plastic and canvas, which provides a combination of durable, sturdy, very light, and stylish. The rubber handle makes carrying easy. Here you will find more information about the case. You can add it to your order at the top right of the page.

Gateron switch puller

The Gateron switch puller is the ultimate addition to your hot-swappable keyboard. Our hot-swappable keyboards already come standard with a keycap and switch puller. However, this switch puller is more user-friendly.

You place the Gateron switch puller over the switch and press down until you hear a click. Now you can easily pull out the switch. With a press of the button on top, the puller releases the switch. You can read more about the Gateron switch puller here.

What makes an ergonomic keyboard so good?

Anyone who does a lot of computer work knows that it can be strenuous for your wrists, shoulders, back, and neck. A good keyboard can help you with this. The Keychron K2, for example, has a compact design. The keys are also extra easy to press. Furthermore, you can place your mouse close to the keyboard. All of this is to minimise muscle tension, thereby preventing or reducing injuries.

Get the most out of this product

You choose not only the keyboard but also the type of switches it is equipped with. You can choose from Red, Blue, and Brown Gateron mechanical switches. Here you will find an overview of the different switches so you can choose the right one for you.

The K2 can be updated to fix any production and/or design flaws. Therefore, regularly check this Keychron page to see if updates are available. Please note: Read the instructions on this page carefully, as downloading the wrong firmware can be fatal for the keyboard.

Don't miss this either

The Keychron K2 features a powerful 4000mAh battery that lasts up to 80 hours with normal use. The keyboard also has backlighting, making the keys clearly visible in insufficiently lit rooms. The K2 can easily be raised by unfolding two feet at the back. However, we advise against this for ergonomic reasons.

The Keychron K2 is suitable for both Windows & Mac. With a slider switch on the side, you can easily switch between operating systems. System-related keycaps are included and can be easily swapped by yourself.