Kraken Keyboards Review: Are They Worth the Hype?
Design and Build Quality
Kraken Keyboards boast a sleek and modern design. Each keyboard is highly customizable, allowing users to select the case color, keycap material, and switches to suit their preferences. One of the standout features is the robust construction; the cases are typically made of high-quality aluminum or plastic, offering both durability and a premium feel. The keycaps are crafted from PBT, known for being wear-resistant and offering a superior typing experience. Additionally, Kraken offers a variety of colors and themes, which allow you to personalize your keyboard to match your gaming setup.
| Feature | Material | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Case | Aluminum, Plastic | Durable, premium feel, lightweight options |
| Keycaps | PBT | Wear-resistant, high-quality tactile feel |
| Switches | Mechanical | Customizable, long lifespan, responsive |
Customization Options
Customization is where Kraken Keyboards truly shine. Users can select from a wide range of mechanical switches, including popular Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh options. These switches come in various actuation forces and tactile feedback levels, catering to different user preferences—whether for gaming, typing, or a combination of both. In addition to the switches, Kraken offers an array of keycap designs, which are often inspired by gaming, pop culture, and unique color schemes.
For those who enjoy a more personalized touch, Kraken also provides customizable RGB lighting. The lighting options are extensive—you can choose individual key backlighting or create dynamic lighting effects that respond to your typing or gaming activities. This feature enhances the gaming experience and adds a cool factor to the keyboard’s aesthetics.
Performance
In terms of performance, Kraken Keyboards excel across the board. Whether you’re typing an essay or engaging in fast-paced gaming, these keyboards provide a smooth and responsive experience. The mechanical switches are built to last, with most rated for 50 million keystrokes. This durability ensures that Kraken Keyboards remain functional even after years of heavy use.
When it comes to gaming, Kraken Keyboards are designed with fast actuation and precision in mind. Gamers will appreciate the N-key rollover and anti-ghosting features, which ensure that every keypress is registered, even during intense gaming sessions. The customizable switches also allow users to find the perfect setup that provides the right balance of speed and tactile feedback for competitive gaming.
Typing Experience
The typing experience on Kraken Keyboards is equally impressive. The keycaps have a nice texture, and the mechanical switches offer satisfying tactile feedback with each press. For those who spend a lot of time typing, this keyboard provides a comfortable experience that reduces fatigue. Additionally, the stability of the keycaps and the overall weight of the keyboard help keep it in place during long typing or gaming sessions.
| Typing Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Keycap Texture | Textured, PBT material |
| Switch Responsiveness | Quick actuation, customizable switches |
| Ergonomics | Comfortable typing angle, stable build |
Software and Compatibility
Kraken offers intuitive software that allows users to customize the lighting effects, key assignments, and macros. The software is easy to use and doesn’t require extensive technical knowledge to navigate. In terms of compatibility, Kraken Keyboards are compatible with Windows, macOS, and most Linux distributions, ensuring that no matter your operating system, you can take full advantage of its features.
One downside, however, is that Kraken's software isn’t as feature-rich as some of its competitors. While it gets the job done for most users, enthusiasts looking for more advanced features such as integration with smart home devices or in-depth key mapping might find the software somewhat limited.
Pricing and Value
Kraken Keyboards are considered mid-to-high-end products, and the price reflects their premium features and build quality. While they are not the cheapest keyboards on the market, their durability and customization options make them a good investment for gamers and typing enthusiasts. Depending on the configuration, prices can range from $150 to $300 or more.
Though expensive, the long-lasting durability of the switches and the ability to swap out keycaps and customize the keyboard according to personal preferences enhance the value of the product over time. This is particularly true for users who value aesthetics and performance in a keyboard.
Conclusion
Kraken Keyboards live up to the hype with their robust build, customizable features, and top-tier performance. Whether you’re a casual gamer, a competitive esports player, or someone who types for hours on end, Kraken Keyboards offer a satisfying experience. The customizable RGB lighting, vast switch options, and high-quality keycaps all contribute to making this keyboard stand out in a crowded market.
However, the price point may be a bit steep for some, and the software could be improved. If you’re looking for a keyboard that provides both aesthetic appeal and excellent performance, Kraken Keyboards are worth considering. They offer the right mix of customizability, durability, and functionality to justify their price.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable build and high-quality materials | Expensive |
| Highly customizable (switches, keycaps, RGB) | Software is somewhat limited |
| Excellent gaming and typing performance |
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