HyperX has partnered with well-known mechanical keyboard manufacturer Ducky to develop a new, limited color scheme for its compact, 60 percent Ducky One 2 Mini. In addition to spraying this keyboard with a matte black frame that surrounds the keys and a glossy cherry red tube on the bottom, HyperX's linear mechanical key switches are used.
Each of these switches is covered with Ducky's durable keycaps that are designed to retain their grippy texture and key label despite prolonged use. This model costs $ 109.99 and can be picked up in the HyperX online shop from Tuesday, May 12th. Only a total of 3,700 units are manufactured.
Photo by Cameron Faulkner / The Verge
In terms of subtleties, the One 2 Mini has many of them. This keyboard connects via a USB-C to USB Type-A cable, so you can easily connect it to your desk without looking. The rear feet have two height settings, so you have more options if you prefer a slightly angled keyboard instead of all-or-nothing options for height. The switches provided by HyperX are comfortable to type, and while the feel of the trip is very subjective, the "thock" sound and feel meet my needs. HyperX claims to have a lifespan of 80 million clicks. PBT, the key material Ducky uses, feels great, but whether the 60 percent form factor works for you is a different matter.
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Photo by Cameron Faulkner / The Verge
As I mentioned earlier, this 60 percent keyboard is incredibly space-saving. I share a desk with my partner and this model could be a stroke of luck if space is a commodity. If you are not aware, the 60 percent value refers to a full-size keyboard with a number of function keys, directional keys, and a full numeric keypad. The Ducky One 2 Mini lacks all these functions. Instead, you can choose a number of options that you can run by holding down the Fn key.
It is wise to be able to access all functions of a smaller keyboard. However, if you navigate to find out where each of these options is hidden on the keyboard, you'll be prompted to rethink using the entire device. Simple shortcuts like adjusting the volume, using arrow keys, and trying to run the Windows + Prt Scn shortcut to take screenshots require some research. I had to keep the manual next to me while accessing some of the macro and RGB backlight options with the One 2 Mini.
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After over a week with the Ducky One 2 Mini, I find that it fits my desk perfectly. It's small, powerful, and the switches are quiet enough not to bother my partner too much, unlike my 80 percent mechanical Durgod keyboard that uses Cherry MX Brown switches. It's great to use it with games, although from a writer's point of view, the number of compromises in performing some of the most basic keyboard functions, like using directional keys to copy through copy, is difficult on a 60 percent form factor keyboard.
