I’ve become a bore at work, consistently banging on about how great mechanical keyboards are. If you’re stuck in front of a computer all day typing away and you haven’t got one, you’re really missing out on a life-changing experience in my eyes!
When I first started to consider getting a mechanical keyboard I did a huge amount of research (not being rich, I didn’t want to end up with a dud), and the brand I ultimately landed on was Keychron and I have never had one moment to doubt the choice since.
So I was very happy to try out the company’s new launch – the Q6 Max. It’s a real beast. A full-size mechanical keyboard with an all-aluminium body that screams quality and robustness. The Q6 is premium and comes at a price, but you get what you pay for in this case.
Being metal, it is on the heavy side so it’s very doubtful you’ll be lugging it around with you. But if you’re sat at a desk all day you’ll be golden. The Q6 Max supports 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.1 connections, offering high-speed wireless functionality, alongside a wired Type-C option. I plumped for the 2.4GHz and it has been rock solid – that and the wired connection are more than fast enough for gaming.
The keyboard is Windows and Mac compatible (you can toggle between the two via a switch), and you get replacement keys that are easily fitted depending on which you choose. As for typing, it’s a real joy. I’m not going to pretend to know all the jargon, but the double-gasket design offers a solid click and a reassuring tactile bump. The sound it makes is also heaven!
As well as the full keyboard and number pad there is also a knob that allows you to alter the volume, while a quick press will mute your system. The Q6 Max features south-facing RGB lighting, customizable with 22 RGB modes, which adds a little fun and sparkle to proceedings.
You can customise every part of the keyboard, including the keycaps, switches, and acoustic foams. Also, a web-based app – Keychron Launcher – lets you remap keys, set macros, adjust the lighting, and update firmware, all without downloading additional software.
The Keychron is not perfect, however, and there are a few very small quibbles. The south-facing lighting might not be to everyone’s taste. Due to its weight, you don’t get a stand so there’s no way out of the box to adjust the typing angle or height. Not a huge issue but it does mean – for me at least – it was very easy to miss if the caps lock was on as it was difficult to spot the light.
However, all in all I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending the Q6 Max. If you don’t use a mechanical keyboard, go get one. And if you want one of the best, go get this!
The Keychron Q6 Max is available for £249.99 with a choice of three Gateron switches via Amazon.
What users say
Stephen Williams: Using this keyboard is like driving a Bentley. Yes, it’s hugely expensive, but it’s more than justified. It’ll be the last keyboard I ever own.
Matt: This is a very heavy and well built keyboard that makes typing a real pleasure. The keys have a wonderful tactile feel to them and is substantially better than any keyboard I’ve ever used. It’s expensive but worth it in my opinion. Great that keys are provided for both pc and mac use and it can be used wired or wireless.
Howard Gyton: This keyboard is in an entirely different league. It’s like you are typing on a piece of slate or granite, it doesn’t move an inch. The action on the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches is sublime. Lovely action, a pleasing tap with the slightest press, and very smooth.
Alternatives
RedThunder K95 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
EPOMAKER X Aula F99 PRO Wireless Gaming Keyboard