Ducky One 2 SF Keyboard review Kailh Box Red switches for gamers

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Ducky One 2 SF Keyboard (Kailh Box Red) caught my eye immediately with its sleek and compact 65% layout, which strikes the perfect balance between functionality and desk space. It’s not just a pretty face either—it’s built with double-shot PBT keycaps that feel premium under your fingertips. These keycaps are durable, resistant to wear and shine, and the RGB backlighting shines beautifully through the legends without any unevenness. The petite bezel design gives the keyboard a modern, clean look that fits well in any gaming or professional setup.

One thing I appreciated was the solid build quality despite its lightweight frame. It weighs just 1.4 pounds, making it portable but sturdy. The USB-C interface is a welcomed touch, providing a stable and reliable connection. While the construction is primarily plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy in any way.

Performance and Key Switches

The Kailh Box Red switches are a major highlight for this keyboard. These linear switches are smooth and quiet, which makes them ideal for gamers and typists alike. I tested them in both gaming sessions and long typing marathons, and the consistency in keypresses was impressive. With a 1000Hz polling rate, every keystroke registers almost instantly, providing a competitive edge in fast-paced games.

The full USB key rollover ensures that all simultaneous key presses are detected without fail. Whether I was mashing multiple keys during an intense gaming moment or executing complex macros, the keyboard performed flawlessly. The inclusion of multimedia keys added convenience, especially when switching between work and play.

Key Benefits

• Compact 65% layout with dedicated arrow keys—perfect for gamers and professionals who value space efficiency.
• Durable double-shot PBT keycaps that resist wear and shine.
• RGB backlighting with vibrant, customizable lighting effects.
• Kailh Box Red switches provide smooth, quiet, and consistent performance.
• Full USB key rollover ensures no keystroke is missed.

Shortcomings

Despite its many strengths, the keyboard isn’t without its flaws.

• No hotswap sockets mean you’re stuck with the pre-installed switches unless you’re comfortable desoldering.
• While it’s Mac compatible, the support is limited, and some keys may require additional setup or remapping.
• The plastic frame, though sturdy, lacks the premium feel of aluminum counterparts in this price range.

Customization and Features

One of the standout features is the 3528 SMD RGB LEDs, which offer brilliant and customizable lighting effects. I loved tinkering with the lighting profiles to match the mood of my gaming setup. The on-board controls make it easy to adjust settings without needing additional software—though software support would have been a nice touch for more advanced customization.

The keyboard also comes with 10 additional colorful PBT keycaps, which is a fun bonus for those who enjoy personalizing their boards. These extra keycaps add a pop of color and allow for minor customizations. The dedicated arrow keys and navigation buttons (delete, page up, page down) are a lifesaver for anyone transitioning from a full-size or TKL keyboard.

Competing Products

Compared to other 65% keyboards, the Ducky One 2 SF holds its ground remarkably well. For instance, the Anne Pro 2 also offers a compact layout but includes hotswap sockets and Bluetooth connectivity, which the Ducky lacks. However, the Ducky shines with its build quality, keycap durability, and RGB implementation, which are superior to many of its rivals.

Another notable competitor is the Keychron K6, which features an aluminum frame and wireless functionality. While the Keychron feels more premium, its keycaps and RGB lighting don’t match the crispness and durability of the Ducky. If wireless capability isn’t a priority, I’d still lean toward the Ducky for its smooth typing experience and reliable wired connection.

Value for Money

Considering the features packed into this keyboard, the price-to-quality ratio is solid. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the build quality, RGB backlighting, and Kailh Box Red switches make it worth investing in. It’s an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize performance and aesthetics over extra bells and whistles like wireless connectivity or hotswappable switches.

Ultimately, this keyboard offers affordable quality without compromising on the essentials. Whether you’re a gamer looking for precision or a typist in search of comfort, this keyboard strikes a great balance.

Additional information