Technology
Keychron Q4 Review: Is It Worth the Hype?
Mechanical keyboards have become a staple for enthusiasts, gamers, and professionals alike, offering a tactile and satisfying typing experience that membrane keyboards simply can’t match. Among the many brands in the mechanical keyboard market, Keychron has emerged as a favorite for its blend of quality, customization, and affordability. The Keychron Q4, the latest addition to their Q series, has been making waves in the community. But does it live up to the hype? In this detailed review, we’ll dissect every aspect of the Keychron Q4 to help you decide if it’s the right keyboard for you.
The Keychron Q4 is a 96% mechanical keyboard, a layout that strikes a balance between functionality and compactness. It retains the numpad, which is a must-have for many users, while eliminating some of the less frequently used keys to save space. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need the utility of a full-sized keyboard but want to save desk real estate.
Keychron offers the Q4 in two versions: a fully assembled model for those who want a plug-and-play experience, and a DIY kit for enthusiasts who enjoy building and customizing their keyboards from scratch. Both options cater to different audiences, ensuring that the Q4 appeals to a wide range of users.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic Design
The Keychron Q4 boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a brushed aluminum case that exudes premium quality. The keyboard is available in several color options, including black, gray, and blue, allowing users to choose one that complements their workspace. The compact 96% layout is both practical and visually appealing, making it a great addition to any setup.
Build Quality
One of the standout features of the Keychron Q4 is its exceptional build quality. The keyboard is constructed with a full aluminum case, which not only adds to its durability but also gives it a substantial, weighty feel. The aluminum case helps reduce flex, ensuring a stable typing experience even during intense typing sessions.
The Q4 features a gasket-mounted design, a hallmark of premium mechanical keyboards. In this design, the PCB is suspended within the case using gaskets, which absorb shock and reduce vibrations. This results in a softer, more cushioned typing experience and contributes to the keyboard’s overall sound profile, making it quieter and more pleasant to use.
Keycaps and Switches
The Keychron Q4 comes with double-shot PBT keycaps, which are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. The keycaps have a textured finish that provides a comfortable typing experience and prevents your fingers from slipping.
As for switches, the Q4 offers a variety of options, including Gateron and Keychron’s own K Pro switches. These switches are available in different types—linear, tactile, and clicky—allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing preferences. The switches are hot-swappable, meaning you can easily replace them without soldering, making customization a breeze.
Typing Experience
Key Feel and Responsiveness
The typing experience on the Keychron Q4 is nothing short of exceptional. The gasket-mounted design, combined with the high-quality switches and keycaps, results in a smooth, responsive typing experience. The keys feel stable and consistent, with no noticeable wobble or flex.
The tactile feedback from the switches is satisfying, and the actuation force is just right, making it easy to type for extended periods without fatigue. Whether you’re typing up a report, coding, or gaming, the Q4 delivers a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Sound Profile
One of the most talked-about aspects of the Keychron Q4 is its sound profile. Thanks to the gasket-mounted design and the use of high-quality materials, the keyboard produces a deep, thocky sound that is music to the ears of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The sound is consistent across all keys, with no rattling or pinging, which is often a concern with cheaper keyboards.
If you prefer a quieter typing experience, you can opt for linear switches, which produce less noise compared to tactile or clicky switches. Additionally, the keyboard comes with foam padding inside the case, which helps to dampen sound and reduce vibrations.
Customization Options
Hot-Swappable Switches
One of the key features of the Keychron Q4 is its hot-swappable PCB. This allows you to easily change out the switches without any soldering, making it simple to experiment with different switch types and find the one that suits your preferences. Whether you prefer the smoothness of linear switches, the tactile feedback of tactile switches, or the audible click of clicky switches, the Q4 gives you the freedom to customize your typing experience.
Keycap Compatibility
The Keychron Q4 uses a standard keycap layout, which means it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket keycaps. This gives you the freedom to customize the look and feel of your keyboard with ease. Whether you prefer bold, colorful keycaps or a more understated, minimalist look, the Q4 can accommodate your preferences.
Case and Plate Options
The Q4 also offers customization options when it comes to the case and plate. The keyboard comes with a CNC-machined aluminum case, but you can choose from different color options to match your setup. Additionally, the keyboard supports different plate materials, such as aluminum, brass, and polycarbonate, each of which affects the typing experience and sound profile.
Software and Programmability
Keychron Q4 Software
The Keychron Q4 is compatible with Keychron’s proprietary software, which allows you to customize the keyboard’s key layout, create macros, and adjust RGB lighting effects. The software is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to program the keyboard to your liking.
RGB Lighting
The Q4 features per-key RGB lighting, which allows you to customize the lighting effects for each individual key. The RGB lighting is bright and vibrant, with a wide range of effects to choose from, including static, breathing, and reactive lighting. You can also create your own custom lighting profiles using the software.
Macro Programming
For those who need additional functionality, the Q4 supports macro programming, allowing you to assign complex commands to a single key. This is particularly useful for gamers or power users who need quick access to specific functions.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Wired Connectivity
The Keychron Q4 is a wired keyboard, which means it connects to your computer via a USB-C cable. The cable is detachable, making it easy to replace if needed. The keyboard is compatible with both Windows and macOS, and it includes keycaps for both operating systems, so you can easily switch between them.
Compatibility
The Q4 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, Macs, and even some gaming consoles. The keyboard supports both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0, ensuring compatibility with most modern devices.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Premium Build Quality: The full aluminum case and gasket-mounted design give the Q4 a solid, durable feel.
- Customizable: Hot-swappable switches, customizable keycaps, and programmable software make the Q4 highly customizable.
- Excellent Typing Experience: The gasket-mounted design, high-quality switches, and keycaps result in a smooth, responsive typing experience.
- Compact Layout: The 96% layout offers the functionality of a full-sized keyboard in a more compact form factor.
- RGB Lighting: Per-key RGB lighting with customizable effects adds a touch of flair to the keyboard.
Cons
- Wired Only: The Q4 is a wired keyboard, which may be a drawback for those who prefer wireless connectivity.
- Price: The Q4 is on the pricier side, which may be a barrier for some users.
- Learning Curve: The extensive customization options may be overwhelming for beginners.
Conclusion: Is It Worth the Hype?
The Keychron Q4 is a premium mechanical keyboard that delivers on its promises. With its high-quality build, customizable features, and excellent typing experience, it’s easy to see why this keyboard has generated so much hype. Whether you’re a mechanical keyboard enthusiast looking for a new project or a casual user in search of a high-quality keyboard, the Q4 is a solid choice.
However, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a purchase. If you value wireless connectivity or are on a tight budget, the Q4 may not be the best option for you. But if you’re willing to invest in a premium, customizable keyboard that offers an exceptional typing experience, the Keychron Q4 is definitely worth the hype.
In conclusion, the Keychron Q4 is a top-tier mechanical keyboard that combines premium build quality, extensive customization options, and a fantastic typing experience. It’s a keyboard that not only meets but exceeds expectations, making it a worthy addition to any setup.
